The production of “Methode Traditionelle” sparkling wines has been an integral part of the winemaking at Blue Pyrenees for many years. The Sparkling Shiraz expresses its “terroir” or “where it comes from” better than any other Blue Pyrenees sparkling. Select parcels of Shiraz are nominated in the vineyard or winery for sparkling wine production due to displaying prominent varietal and regional characters along with soft tannins and restrained alcohol. The Pyrenees grape growing seasons are generally ideal for Shiraz starting with winter rains, cool springs and summers, followed by warm autumns, perfect for ripening reds. Approximately 5 days primary fermentation on skins in open fermenters, is followed by gentle pressing to tank and then racking off the yeast lees to small and large oak vats for 2 years oak maturation. Secondary bottle fermentation then occurs before another 1-2 years bottle maturation which allows integration of the fruit flavours, tannin, carbon dioxide and yeasty complexity. Finally riddling, disgorging and the ultimate fine tuning (dosage) for consumption takes place resulting in a spectacularly unique product.
Tasting Notes
| Colour: |
Bright ruby red with a youthful hue. |
| Aroma: |
The hints of Pyrenees cardamom like spice, ripe plummy fruit, a hint of oak and mature chocolate like tannin make for an appealing aroma. |
| Flavour: |
The flavours generally follow on from the aromas with sweet dark plum fruit up front, a rich chocolate mid palate and a lingering soft tannin and spicy finish. |
| Technical: |
Alcohol: 15.5% TA: 6.1g/L pH: 3.5 |
| Awards: |
The NV Blue Pyrenees Sparkling Shiraz was awarded a gold medal in class 40 and the trophy for best sparkling wine at the Victorian Wine Show 2010. |