2023 Majella Sparkling Shiraz, Coonawarra

Disgorged in '24. An intoxicating vintage with aromas of brandy redcurrants, goji tea and baked rhubarb. A foamy bead and some sinewy tannins. This is such a reliable fizz for its persistent flavours and Christmas cake spices, but handled with care and attention for overall balance and texture. There is enough dosage sweetness to please all sparkling shiraz lovers but it's dry enough for ham, cold cuts and crumbly cheeses.

92 points Shanteh Wale Halliday Wine Companion

Sparkling Shiraz is one of those uniquely Australian styles that manages to be both festive and serious, and Majella does it with a real sense of place. Based in Coonawarra, a region better known for Cabernet, the Lynn family have quietly built a reputation for producing wines of depth and consistency from those famous terra rossa soils over limestone. The fruit for this comes from vineyards that benefit from long, even ripening, giving both flavour intensity and natural balance, while winemaking is handled with the same care as their still reds.

A rush of blackberry, dark cherry and plum comes through first, wrapped in hints of mocha, spice and a touch of liquorice. The mousse is fine and lively, lifting the richness and keeping everything fresh, while a gentle sweetness is balanced by a savoury edge and soft tannins that give it real structure. There is a lovely interplay here between ripe fruit and subtle earthy notes, making it far more than just a novelty style.

It is ready to go the moment the cork is popped, but will hold and develop more complexity over the next few years if you are inclined to tuck a bottle away. The balance of fruit and structure gives it surprising versatility.

Brilliant with glazed ham, slow cooked pork belly, or even something like Peking duck where the sweetness and spice meet the wine head on. It is also right at home with a rich chocolate dessert, especially anything with dark cocoa and a hint of spice.