Eucalyptus grows in warm climates and is native to Australia. Sometimes known as Gum trees. It is widely introduced into many of the wine growing regions of the world notably California, Chile, and Spain. The eucalypt character shows up in wine as the familiar menthol aroma associated with the oil from the plant. While researching this aroma, The VINEgeek, Jim Wilkerson of http://www.vinegeek.com/ pointed me at a couple of good articles on the subject.
The first, Gumming up the works, is a good discussion on the industry impact seen in different regions.
The second, Monitoring Eucalyptus Flavors, is a recent scientific study of the phenomena in California and determines exactly which chemical is responsible for the aroma in the grapes. It also suggests that the chemical is transmitted through the air into the grape skin.
With this in mind, look for reviews in the next few days of some wines that are good candidates for having Eucalyptus aromas present.
Have you detected Eucalyptus in any wine lately? If so, which ones?
Glad you found the articles useful. I just posted a review of another wine with the eucalyptus influence – Cline 2007 Cashmere. In this wine, I pick up the minty note on the palate more than on the nose and it is not as pronounced as in the Small Berry Mourvedre from the same producer. Only a portion of the grapes in the Cashmere (a G-S-M blend) come from the Big Break vineyard with the nearby eucalyptus grove. Click through to my blog for more info. It’s a very nice wine for the price.
I will definitely pick up a bottle of the Cashmere. Fortunately, it is widely available.
I did see a lot of reviewers noting the Eucalyptus in the Cline Small Berry Mourvedre too.
Thanks again.