Australia is an extremely important wine-producing country which is a significant contributor to the economy with a high percentage of wine being exported. Australia is firmly at the forefront of the new world and has a well-established and highly regarded wine industry. Australia is one of the most versatile wine-growing countries in the world, with vast landscapes and a huge range of climatic and geographical conditions. Some of the wine grapes that this new world region is best known for include: Shiraz (aka Syrah), Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Sémillon, Pinot Noir and Riesling.