Flat White, Wine & Craft Beer

Australia has the best coffee culture in the world — and that's no exaggeration. The Flat White was invented here (or in New Zealand, the debate continues), and the quality of the specialty coffee scene is breathtaking. Starbucks failed spectacularly in Australia — the chain had to close over 60% of its stores in 2008 because Australians preferred buying from local baristas.

Coffee Guide

• Flat White: The Australian national drink — espresso with milk that is creamier and less frothy than a cappuccino. 4.50–6 AUD.
• Long Black: Australia's Americano — hot water with espresso on top (not the other way around, preserving the crema). Stronger and more aromatic.
• Cold Brew / Cold Drip: The alternative in the hot months (which is often). Cold extracted over 12–24 hours.
• Magic: A Melbourne specialty — double ristretto with steamed milk in a small cup. Stronger than a Flat White.

Wine

Australia is the fifth-largest wine producer in the world — and the quality has dramatically increased over the last 20 years. The key regions and their strengths:

• Barossa Valley (SA): World-class Shiraz — full-bodied, spicy, complex. Penfolds Grange is Australia's most famous wine.
• Margaret River (WA): Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay at Bordeaux level.
• Yarra Valley (VIC): Elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (cool climate).
• Hunter Valley (NSW): Semillon and Shiraz — Australia's oldest wine region (2 hours from Sydney).
• Clare & Eden Valley (SA): World’s best Riesling — dry, mineral, comparable to German Riesling.

Craft Beer

Australia's craft beer revolution is in full swing. Over 700 microbreweries, particularly strong in Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth. Great breweries: Stone & Wood (Byron Bay), Young Henrys (Sydney), Mountain Goat (Melbourne), Feral Brewing (Perth). A pint costs 10–14 AUD.