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'''Eden Valley''' is a wine region in South Australia, recognised as a cooler-climate counterpart to the neighbouring [[Barossa Valley]]. It is particularly noted for producing distinctive styles of [[Riesling]] and [[Shiraz]], shaped by its elevated vineyards and varied soils.  

== Historical context ==  
[[Viticulture]] in Eden Valley dates back to the mid-19th century, when European settlers introduced grapevines to the region<ref>Halliday, ''Wine Atlas of Australia'', University of California Press, 2007.</ref>. Over time, the valley established itself as a source of refined wines that contrasted with the richer styles of [[Barossa Valley]]. By the 20th century, Eden Valley was firmly recognised as a key component of South Australia’s wine identity, particularly through its classic dry [[Rieslings]]<ref>Robinson (ed.), ''The Oxford Companion to Wine'', Oxford University Press, 2015.</ref>.  

== Vineyard setting ==  
The region lies at altitudes ranging from 400 to 600 metres, which contributes to cooler growing conditions compared to the surrounding Barossa floor<ref>Johnson & Robinson, ''The World Atlas of Wine'', 8th ed., 2019.</ref>. Its [[soils]] are diverse, consisting of shallow rocky profiles over ancient [[schist (soil)|schist]] and [[granite (soil)|granite]], often limiting [[vine vigour]] and concentrating grape quality. The combination of elevation, poor soils, and marked diurnal shifts allows for wines with high natural [[acidity]] and aromatic intensity.  

== Key varieties and expressions ==  
Eden Valley is most strongly associated with [[Riesling]], producing wines renowned for their purity, citrus-driven flavours, and capacity for long ageing<ref>Barossa Grape & Wine Association, barossa.com.</ref>. [[Shiraz]] is the second signature grape, yielding a more restrained and peppery expression than that of Barossa Valley, often blended with Barossa fruit for balance and complexity. Other plantings, including [[Chardonnay]], [[Cabernet Sauvignon]], and alternative white varieties, exist but play a secondary role.  

== Reputation and significance ==  
The region’s Rieslings are widely considered benchmarks of Australian white wine, celebrated for their longevity and precision<ref>Robinson (ed.), ''The Oxford Companion to Wine'', Oxford University Press, 2015.</ref>. Eden Valley Shiraz also enjoys strong international recognition, offering an elegant counterpoint to Barossa’s [[fuller-bodied]] style. The area is an integral part of the larger Barossa zone and contributes significantly to South Australia’s global wine reputation.  

== See also ==  
* [[Australia]]  
* [[Barossa Valley]]  
* [[Riesling]]  
* [[Shiraz]]  

== References ==  
{{reflist}}  

[[Category:Wine regions of Australia]]  
[[Category:Wine regions]]  
[[Category:Australian wine]]