Sparkling Sundays

[dananne]

Anne and I have the above ritual that lasts through the summer (and sometimes as long as the Atlanta weather stays hot). So far this year, we've been using up old stocks of staple stuff, like Gruet, so nothing really exciting on which to post. We did have a rather nice rose Cremant de Bourgogne up at the farm several weeks ago, but we tossed the bottle before I could post. Hopefully, I'll stumble upon it again, recognize it correctly, and have something to rec.

Anywho, tonight's "Sparkling Sunday" offering was a NV sparkling Shiraz from Hill of Content. Deeply hued garnet in the glass, with a little foamy effervescence that looks more pink. Crushed raspberries on the nose, with layers of berry fruit flavors with a hint of smoky, roasted meat, much like one would get from a still table Shiraz. A slight hint of cordial sweetness on the finish, even though it's basically a dry wine, but it has acidity that cuts across it, making it refreshing. More "fruity sweet" than "sugary sweet," if that makes sense. An interesting drink, and a nice way to spend our "Sparkling Sunday." Best as an aperitif, but could also pair with a salad with sweeter elements, such as a micro greens salad with dried cranberries, pine nuts, and a raspberry vinegarette dressing. You could also chill it down and use it for a blast of refreshment for spicy summer BBQ. Finally, it would also pair well with standard chocolate desserts, like chocolate walnut brownies. Though not as overtly sweet as a Brachetto d'Acqui, for example, it could be similarly used in a romantic setting, as it's better as a stand-alone than something sweet, like Banfi's now-ubiquitous Rosa Regale. Don't know how much it cost, as we received it as a gift, but a quick Google shows you can pick it up for $15-20, depending on your location.

I'll keep this thread open this summer for any other interesting "Sparkling Sunday" wines we enjoy.