Sparkling Shiraz

Sparkling Shiraz

Sparkling Shiraz is a unique style of wine that originated in Australia. It is a red sparkling wine made from the Shiraz grape, also known as Syrah in other parts of the world. The wine is known for its deep ruby color, vibrant berry flavors, and effervescent sparkle.

History

The history of Sparkling Shiraz dates back to the late 19th century in Australia. The Seppelt winery, located in the Barossa Valley, is credited with producing the first Sparkling Shiraz, originally known as Sparkling Burgundy. Despite its name, the wine has no connection to the Burgundy region of France.

Production

The production of Sparkling Shiraz involves the same traditional method used in the production of Champagne. This method, known as Méthode Champenoise, involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, which creates the wine's signature bubbles. The wine is typically aged on its lees for several months or even years, which adds complexity and richness to the flavor.

Characteristics

Sparkling Shiraz is known for its deep, dark color, which can range from ruby red to almost black. The wine typically has a full body and high tannin levels, with flavors of blackberry, plum, and chocolate. Some versions may also have spicy or peppery notes. Despite its robust flavors, Sparkling Shiraz is often enjoyed chilled, which makes it a versatile choice for a variety of food pairings.

Food Pairing

Due to its robust flavors and sparkling nature, Sparkling Shiraz pairs well with a variety of foods. It is often served with traditional Australian dishes such as Kangaroo meat or Barbecued foods. The wine's acidity and bubbles also make it a good match for rich, fatty foods like Duck or Pork.

Regions

While Sparkling Shiraz is most closely associated with Australia, it is also produced in other wine regions around the world. In South Africa, for example, the wine is known as Sparkling Syrah. Some wineries in California and Oregon in the United States also produce versions of Sparkling Shiraz.

See Also

• Australian Wine
• Shiraz (grape)
• Sparkling Wine
• Méthode Champenoise

External Links

• Official website of Seppelt Wines
• Australian Wine Guide: Sparkling Shiraz