d'Arenberg Peppermint Paddock Sparkling Chambourcin Graciano, McLaren Vale

You’d need to sample a lot of wines before you came across one with better colour. The body of the wine is deep in colour but the mousse and rim of the wine are the most bright crimson/purple. As spectacular as this wine is visually, it is not let down by the nose and palate. The bouquet reminds me of a bowl of sweet forest berries poaching in their own juices. A whiff of Xmas spice completes the picture. An explosion of fine bubbles greets you upon your first sip. As the bubbles dissipate the fruit comes to the fore. This wine is best served chilled to accentuate the fresh vibrant acidity which lifts the wine and ensures a clean yet lingering finish. Thoughtful consideration to sweetness level in this wine ensures a fruity mid palate but a crisp dry finish. Fresh and fun.