Beechworth grower imports new grape varieties for debut

Mark Walpole, a grape grower in Beechworth, Australia, has successfully imported two grape varieties, petit arvine and cornalin, after an eight-year process. This year marks their first harvest in Australia. The grapes, native to Italy and Switzerland, were allowed into Australia after securing permissions and completing a quarantine process. Walpole's vineyard now features the first commercial crop of these varieties. Interest in alternative wine varieties is growing among consumers, according to industry figures. While traditional grapes like shiraz and cabernet are declining in popularity, there is increasing curiosity for lesser-known options.