Sparkling Shiraz is a distinctive Australian style of sparkling red wine made from Shiraz (Syrah). It combines the grape’s dark-fruit flavour and peppery character with carbon dioxide, producing a wine that may range from dry to noticeably sweet. Many examples are deep in colour, full-flavoured and structured enough to accompany food.
Producers use different sparkling-wine methods, so it should not be assumed that every bottle is made by the traditional method. Serve it chilled, but not so cold that the wine’s aromas are muted. Sweetness and tannin levels vary by producer.
Example: pair a medium-sweet sparkling Shiraz with glazed ham, roast duck, barbecue, berry desserts or a charcuterie board.
Related terms: sparkling red is the broader category; Shiraz is the Australian name commonly used for Syrah.
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