I knew when I decided to have March serve as a focus on GSM (Grenache Syrah Mourvedre), we’d need to (1) break up the red wines with some other options and (2) experience a couple representations of these incredibly diverse grapes. So, this week, we’re tasting a Sparkling Shiraz!
Sparkling Shiraz is gaining popularity alongside the rosé and Prosecco booms – though not to the same magnitude. Sparkling Shiraz is intriguing because of the uniqueness of a red sparkling wine as well as the fuller-bodied nature of the Syrah/Shiraz grape.
I first had a sparkling red wine with Thanksgiving dinner about ten years ago and it was Chandon’s Sparkling Red, a blend of Pinot Noir and Zinfandel grapes. Chandon’s Sparkling Red was the perfect pairing with Thanksgiving dinner as it served as almost a liquid cranberry sauce to each bite! Sparkling reds have become a tradition with Thanksgiving dinner in our family because of this experience. This Sparkling Shiraz absolutely provides a comparable effect and I believe it to be better paired with food than on its own.
The appearance of this wine is a deep red with purple hues and its body is evident by the legs it leaves on the glass. The aromas are of dark berries and particularly blueberry. If poured initially from the bottle, the bubbles are powerful and somewhat overplay the taste. However, with a little breathing, the power behind the bubbles dissipates quickly and the body and depth of the flavor is more prevalent. I find this wine to be a fun introduction and pairing with many foods and enjoy sharing Sparkling Shiraz with friends.
This wine typically retails from $15-18 and I gave it a three out of four corks rating.
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