Christmas Bubbles

BY THE GLASS
Wine with Darryl Thomas

Christmas day is traditionally Sparkling red day but in the lead up there are lots of opportunities to enjoy quality Australian sparklings.
Here are three; white, pink and red, something for all kinds of tastes and budgets. Perfect aperitif styles with friends or enjoy with some extravagance, oysters, caviar or smoked salmon would fit the bill.
THE WHITE:
MadFish Sparkling NV,
Great Southern, WA
Fresh and light with citrus and floral aromas complemented by some bready characters. The palate is again fresh and light with a fine bead and a crisp lively finish.
RRP: $25.00

THE PINK: Bird in Hand Sparkling Pinot Noir 2015, Adelaide Hills, SA
One of my favourites and perhaps Australia’s best vintage sparkling at this price; it has strawberry and cherry aromas accompanied by a floral lift. Clean, vibrant strawberry flavours are enhanced by a very fine persistent bead.
RRP: $30.00

THE RED: Mitchell Sparkling Peppertree Shiraz NV, Clare Valley, SA
A unique blend of back vintages of Peppertree Shiraz, add some bubbles and the result is this seductive wine. Light but bright red hue; nicely balanced, with a delicacy and freshness often lacking; plenty of spicy black fruits before a pleasingly dry finish. Serve icy cold.
RRP: $40.00