I am going to take a “one time” detour from our regular format and still remain consistent with our general theme of Drinking Globally. Included in the most recent issue of The Wine Spectator is the list of restaurants that are noted as having the world’s best wine lists.

Contrary to popular belief, Australia is not a country populated with kangaroos, sheep, crocodiles, and a few humans. It is a country filled with talented, hard-working, friendly, and industrious people. Fortunately for us wine lovers, these qualities carry over to the wine industry. Karen MacNeil is quick to point out in her book The Wine Bible that high tech is the name of the game in today’s wine production methods in Australia. Yet, in spite of the sophistication in production, the wine remains like the people themselves – outgoing and unpretentious.

The wine industry in Australia is nothing short of huge. It is interesting and diverse. We are indeed fortunate to have access to the wines of Australia as they are plentiful and readily available throughout the Lowcountry.