Sparkling Wine and Champagne

Recent Tastings

Prestige Champagne: Christmas 2018

29th November 2018

This was an extraordinary tasting with every wine being worthy of a place on your Christmas table. The wines ranged in price from under $100 to over $500, and there was a variety of styles at each price point.

Sparkling Wine for Christmas 2018

9th December 2018

Depending on your budget, any of these will provide drinking pleasure over the summer months.

Sittella: Sparkling Wine Review

Barry Weinman: 16th September 2018

The first vintage of Sittella’s Sparkling Chenin was in 2001, and the wine has proved to be very popular ever since. And is the biggest selling wine in their range. The style has evolved over time, becoming gradually drier and more refined. One thing that has remained however, is the vibrancy and freshness that makes this such an easy drink.

Sparkling Wine Masterclass with Winemaker Ed Carr

4th March 2018

Ed Carr is the undisputed king of sparkling wine in Australia, with over 25 vintages under his belt. Over this time, he has learned that climate has a greater impact on sparkling wine than soil.

Champagne and more: March new release

17th March 2017

We had the opportunity to taste through a small selection of Argentinian wines and was very impressed with the quality/price equation. These are well-made wines that represent decent value.

Whilst at it, we looked at a couple of vintage Champagnes. I will recommend the Moet & Chandon over the Veuve, even thought the latter is the better wine. The reason for this is that the Moet is better drinking now, and is being discounted ($85 from Vintage Cellars).

Australian Sparkling Wine

7th February 2017

The attrition rate for this tasting was very high, with only four wines making it to this review.

The premium Heemskerk is particularly worthy of attention. A very elegant wine that is full of refinement.

Bargain Champagne

20th January 2016

Our “house” Champagne (the one that is always in the fridge in case a friend pops in) has varied over the years. Pol Roger has featured regularly; particularly when it’s has been on special closer to $50. The Pol Gessner has also featured, based on how well the wine has performed in masked tastings. The fact that it can be purchased for $35 has added to the appeal.

Champagne – Master Class

26th October 2016IMG_0699

The Comité Interprofessionnel Du Vin De Champagne (CICV) is the trade association that represents both grape growers, and producers of Champagne. The CICV has two major roles…

Champagne – January 2015

Reviewed: 31st January 2015

Drinking Champagne is about much more than just what is in the glass. The history of the region, the reputation of the producers and the house style (recipe) all add to the enjoyment. The mystique associated with the experience is key to what makes Champagne so special.

Champagne

Wine and Food Society of Western Australia

Reviewed 28th March 2013.

I need to start this article with a confession: I love Champagne. The real stuff from France, rather than just any wine with bubbles. So I was very pleased to arrange a tasting of predominantly non-vintage Champagne for the Wine and Food Society of Western Australia.

Sparkling Wine – New Release

Reviewed: 16 February 2013

My perceptions were really challenged during this tasting by the wines from Yellowglen.

  • Firstly, the quality and style of the new releases from Yellowglen are completely different to the cheap wines in the range and are nothing short of stunning!
  • Secondly, whilst there has been a wholesale move to Tasmania as a source of fruit for sparkling wines, this demonstrates just how good the Adelaide Hills wines can be.
  • Finally, as a die-hard fan of Champagne, here is an Australian sparkling wine that I really want to drink.