E&E Sparkling Shiraz 2005
Region: Barossa Valley
Grape Variety: Shiraz
Winemaker: Stuart Bourne
Food Suggestion Enjoy as an aperitif, Christmas turkey, duck confit, strong cheeses or bacon and eggs for brunch! Also good with light style desserts.
Alcohol: 14.0%
Background Information
Fruit for the E&E Black Pepper Shiraz comes from carefully selected parcels of fruit grown in the Barossa Valley. Fruit is chosen for its exceptional quality and concentration of flavour. The close relationship between winemaker and vigneron ensures that E&E will continue to build on its reputation as a flagship Barossa Valley Shiraz. The E&E Sparkling Shiraz is created using the traditional bottle fermentation method.
The Wine
Vibrant deep red, with a purple hue. Aromas of lifted cherry, chocolate and spice are balanced with a touch of oak. Very ripe and mouth-filling, with a fine mousse and long fruit finish. A touch of sweetness is balanced by the fresh acidity. Very layered and complex.
Winemaker's Comments
Our Sparkling Shiraz is unique. After a traditional six day ferment on skins, the parcels of Shiraz selected are barrel aged for 18 months in French and American oak barrels, of which 30% are new – exactly the same treatment as the E&E Black Pepper Shiraz. After blending the components, we then mature the base wine for a further 12 months in old French oak barrels, to add complexity and soften the tannins. After 30 months maturation, the wine goes through traditional bottle fermentation, before lees ageing in bottle, riddling and then disgorgement. Topped at disgorgement with a touch of liqueur to give a touch of sweetness to the finish. Well worth the wait, this wine can be further cellared for up to 10 years, or simply enjoyed now.