Seppelt Original Sparkling Shiraz 2005
'I hate to admit it but I am a bit of a sucker for sparkling reds. There is something about a producer who uses one of his best blocks of Shiraz for a sparkling. Call me absurd (I'm sure a lot already do) but to me it is quite romantic.' Anthony D'anna
After a mercifully brief (and quite disastrous) flirtation with the Harpers Range label, the 'commercial' Sparkling Shiraz from Seppelt has regained its primary brand label, for good measure being given the not-so-original 'Original Sparkling Shiraz' label. Brand management carping to one side, this wine streaks the commercial Sparkling Burgundy field, an exceptional bargain at the price. (Normally) A blend of Padthaway, Barossa and Coonawarra Shiraz, it spent 16 months in large oak before being tiraged, and then spent 18 months on yeast lees. James Halliday
Sparkling red does get better with age. In its youth it is characterised by red berry/dark plum flavors as well as hints of earth and spice. Over time it will hold on to these characteristics but also gain some real complexity. If your looking for top producers of sparkling red, it is hard to go past Seppelt. They have been one of the best producers for over one hundred years. This years release, the 2005 is no different.
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