Christmas Down Under with Australian Sparkling Shiraz
14th December 2023
As the holiday season approaches, Australians and wine enthusiasts turn their attention to a unique and delightful Christmas tradition – Australian Sparkling Shiraz. This effervescent red wine has become a staple with festive celebrations, offering a perfect balance of bold flavors and celebratory bubbles that complement this time of year.
What is Australian Sparkling Shiraz?
Australian Sparkling Shiraz is a red sparkling wine crafted predominantly from the Shiraz grape variety, which thrives in the diverse wine regions of Australia. Known for its deep red color, rich fruit flavors, and a hint of spiciness, Shiraz provides a robust base for sparkling wines that are both refreshing and complex.
Production Method:
The production of Australian Sparkling Shiraz involves the traditional method, also known as the méthode traditional or méthode champenoise. This labor-intensive process includes a secondary fermentation that occurs in the bottle, resulting in the fine bubbles that characterize sparkling wines.
Tasting Notes:
The flavor profile of Australian Sparkling Shiraz is a harmonious blend of dark fruits, such as blackberry and plum, accompanied by notes of pepper, spice, and a touch of chocolate. The effervescence adds a lively and celebratory element, making it an ideal choice for festive occasions.
Why Sparkling Shiraz for Christmas?
In Australia, where Christmas falls in the midst of summer, the effervescence and refreshing qualities of Sparkling Shiraz make it a popular choice for holiday celebrations. Its versatility allows it to pair well with a variety of festive dishes, from roasted meats to barbecue, making it a favourite among those who gather for Christmas feasts in the warm Australian weather.
Best Serving Practices:
To fully appreciate the complexity and bubbles of Australian Sparkling Shiraz, it is recommended to serve it chilled, around 7-10°C. This ensures that the bubbles are fine and persistent, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
Top Picks for Sparkling Shiraz:
1. Seppelt Original Sparkling Shiraz: Hailing from one of Australia’s oldest wineries, Seppelt Original Sparkling Shiraz boasts a rich and velvety texture with layers of dark fruit and a hint of Christmas spice.
2. d’Arenberg The Peppermint Paddock Sparkling Shiraz: This iconic McLaren Vale winery produces a Sparkling Shiraz that captures the essence of the region. It’s vibrant, with intense blackberry flavors and a touch of mint, making it a standout choice for festive celebrations.
3. Rockford Black Shiraz: Crafted by the revered Rockford Winery in the Barossa Valley, the Black Shiraz is a full-bodied sparkling wine with a perfect balance of dark fruit, chocolate, and a hint of smokiness.
This Christmas, elevate your festive celebrations with the unique Australian tradition of enjoying Sparkling Shiraz. With its bold flavors, festive effervescence, and ability to complement a variety of holiday dishes, Australian Sparkling Shiraz is a delightful choice for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and those looking to add a touch of Down Under to their celebrations.
Teri Wheeler
Wine Professional from South Australia, has made a mark in the wine industry due to her passion and extensive experience in the industry, as a Wine Ambassador, Business Develop Manager, Merchant Success Manager, Wine Educator, Writer, Examiner and Critic for various wine companies and publications, all underpinned by her soon to be completed Level 4 Diploma in Wines from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, making her a valuable figure in the world wines.