What is Sparkling Shiraz?

Sparkling Shiraz is red wine made from Shiraz grapes that undergoes a second fermentation to create bubbles. It can be crafted in a dry or off dry style, with dosage levels and ageing choices determining sweetness, texture, and complexity. Classic examples are made by traditional method with extended time on lees for creamy texture and fine bead.

How is it Made?

• Traditional Method: A second fermentation occurs in bottle, followed by ageing on lees for texture and savoury complexity. Disgorgement removes lees and a small dosage adjusts balance.
• Tank Method: A second fermentation in pressurised tanks creates a fruit driven, juicy style with softer bubbles.
• Disgorgement Date: Many top Sparkling Shiraz list disgorgement. Later disgorgement can show creamier texture and more autolytic notes. Earlier disgorgement tastes brighter and more primary.

How Does Sparkling Shiraz Taste?

• Aromas: Blackberry, black cherry, plum, violet, baking spice, licorice, sometimes cocoa or fruitcake.
• Palate: Medium to full bodied with fine mousse. Dark fruit, spice, and a fresh line of acidity.
• Style Spectrum: Dry to off dry. Traditional method examples can show brioche and mocha from lees ageing. Tank method styles lean juicy and fruit forward.

Serving and Pairing

• Serve: 10 to 12 °C in a tulip or universal wine glass. Slight chill keeps the fruit vibrant and the mousse fine.
• Pair: Spiced barbecued meats, glazed ham, roast duck, lamb chops, char siu, hard cheeses, berry desserts, and dark chocolate cake.

Wines Worth Knowing

Customer favourites and highly regarded releases in our range.

• Rockford Black Sparkling Shiraz assorted disgorgements: Iconic Barossa release with depth, spice, and festive richness. Look for special disgorged vintages including 2011, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2023, and 2024.
• Majella Sparkling Shiraz 2022: Coonawarra fruit purity with fine bead and vibrant dark berries.
• Langmeil Stelle Nere Sparkling Shiraz Cuvée NV: Barossa style that balances ripe fruit and savoury notes.
• Also explore Lambrusco such as Donelli for a lighter, Italian take on sparkling red.

Sparkling Shiraz Questions, Answered

Is Sparkling Shiraz sweet?
Not always. Many top examples are dry or off dry. If you prefer drier styles, look for traditional method bottlings and notes that mention low dosage. If you like richer, plush fruit, off dry styles can be very satisfying.

Can you age Sparkling Shiraz?
Yes. Quality releases with time on lees can develop for 5 to 10 years or more. Expect added notes of cocoa, fruitcake, and spice with a rounder mousse. Always store bottles cool, dark, and still.

What is the best temperature to serve Sparkling Shiraz?
Aim for 10 to 12 °C. Too cold mutes aromatics and tannin. Too warm can make the mousse feel coarse.

How do disgorgement dates affect flavour?
Later disgorgement typically shows creamier texture and more savoury autolytic complexity. Earlier disgorgement tends to be brighter and more primary fruited. Choose based on whether you prefer richness or freshness.

What foods pair best with Sparkling Shiraz?
Spiced barbecue, roast turkey or ham, lamb with herbs, aged cheddar, berry tarts, and chocolate desserts. The freshness and bubbles lift rich dishes while the dark fruit complements spice and glaze.

Is Sparkling Shiraz a good gift?
Yes. It is uniquely Australian, crowd pleasing, and versatile at the table. It suits festive occasions and pairs with a wide range of foods.

Why Shop Sparkling Shiraz at Kent Street Cellars

• Benchmark Australian producers including Rockford, Majella, and Langmeil
• Curated disgorgements and limited releases alongside everyday favourites
• Same day delivery across Sydney Metro
• Fast, secure Australia wide shipping
• Optional gift wrapping

Explore Sparkling Shiraz and discover a style that brings red wine flavour together with celebratory sparkle.