2018 Sidewood Isabella Sparkling Rosé, Adelaide Hills

60/40% pinot noir/chardonnay. A very lively, bright and frisky rosé sparkling with a tightly wound personality and very energetic fizz. Light and bright, with tart cherry, cranberry, rosehip tea and barely-there patisserie characters, faint ginger biscuit and shortbread notes. It's relatively simple but very satisfying and distinctly refreshing. A little chalky mineral character also lends some distinction. Good drinking here.

93 points Mike Bennie Halliday Wine Companion

Named in honour of family and crafted with a light, celebratory touch, Isabella Sparkling Rosé captures the cooler, refined side of the Adelaide Hills. Sidewood Estate, founded by Owen Inglis and guided today by winemaker Dylan Lee, has built a strong reputation for sparkling wines, helped by the region’s altitude and long, even ripening conditions that preserve acidity and finesse.

The Adelaide Hills is one of Australia’s natural homes for sparkling, where cool nights and bright days allow fruit to develop delicate aromatics without losing freshness. This rosé leans into that beautifully, offering a style that is vibrant, elegant and effortlessly drinkable.

A soft blush pink in the glass, with a lively stream of fine bubbles. Aromatics are bright and inviting, strawberry, raspberry and red apple layered with hints of citrus zest and a gentle floral lift. There is a subtle creaminess underneath, adding a touch of depth.

The palate is crisp and refreshing, red berry fruits carried by a fine mousse and a line of clean acidity that keeps everything lively. A touch of texture rounds out the mid palate, while the finish remains dry, fresh and moreish. It feels balanced and energetic, made for easy enjoyment without losing its sense of detail.

Perfect with food that mirrors its freshness. Fresh oysters, prawns, or a light salmon dish all work beautifully, as do picnic style spreads with charcuterie, soft cheeses and seasonal fruit. It also handles lightly spiced dishes with ease.

Best enjoyed now while its brightness and charm are at their peak.

There is a joyful, easy elegance here, the kind of sparkling that suits celebrations both big and small, or simply a sunny afternoon with good company.

For a bit of fun, put on something like Fleetwood Mac Dreams, or if you want to lean into the sparkle, Kylie Minogue Can’t Get You Out of My Head, both match that lively, feel good energy in the glass.