- Victoria - $13-$25
- Cork
- 13.5%alc
The Original Sparkling Shiraz seems to be as mandatory in Australian wine lists as the words 'moving forward' are in a Julia Gillard speech. Whether you like the Original's style or not, it's undeniable that it's been the benchmark sub-$20 sparkling red for so long now, that it's even become a house fizzer in the exclusive members area at Adelaide Oval Tests.
Vibrantly coloured yet very shy on first sniff, the 2006 Seppelt presents a rather subdued nose scented with cherry cola and dark plums backed by creamy vanilla/mocha oak with a mere suggestion of leathery development. Entering with syrup-like texture, its palate reveals straight forward, bright flavours of small berry and plum fruits with white pepper, framed by a soft drink-like effervescence which is overcome by dry, biting tannins. It's a shade lighter than some of the label's recent releases, and although it isn't terribly deep, rich or complex, it does finish with lingering notes of cherry and enough (well judged) persevering sweetness to see it gain broad appeal.
ü Not a sparkling red to convert doubters of the style, but a typically wise choice for anyone holding onto no more than a 20. Drink with good company. Drink to 2014.
89 points
Interesting, thanks for sharing I used to always wonder what it was like but never had time to try it.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy the way you write, Chris. We need people like you on www.BoozeMonkey.com
ReplyDeleteCome and join us if you're interested: you can post a link on your profile pointing to your blogspot page to drive more traffic this way and we can guarantee you 100+ reads on each of your blogs/reviews.
Sarah,
ReplyDeleteAh, you must prefer the classic Pimms No.1 Fruit Cup when sipping bevvos behind the members stand at the Adelaide Oval then? ;)
But seriously, I almost always enjoy the Original Sparkling Shiraz (as someone who likes sparkling reds), especially at relaxed social functions or when it's reduced to $13.
Cheers,
Chris P
Matt,
ReplyDeleteMy deepest thanks for the compliment. I've had a quick look at the Booze Monkey site and it looks good to me, so don't be surprised if you see the little wine drinking Lego man floating around there sometime soon!
Cheers,
Chris P