Taltarni Sparkling Shiraz 2019

Located at the western reach of the Great Dividing Range, the Pyrenees is one of the most naturally beautiful wine regions in Australia. Early settlers called it "the natural garden of Victoria" because of the sub-valleys and lush green rolling hills.

These valleys teemed with gold miners in the 19th century, and as gold became scarce, vineyards were developed. Taltarni led the revitalisation of wine growing in the Pyrenees in the 1960s.

At a latitude of 37º, with soils of red clay, quartz and sandy loam, the Pyrenees region lies in a perfect climatic band for growing grapes. The cool nights and warm days allow for slow ripening and create ideal conditions for crisp sparkling wines.

The 2019 vintage created optimal growing conditions which allowed the shiraz to be picked ripe and rich with vibrant red fruit on the nose and palate.

Picked in the cooler night air from our estate vineyard and fermented in small open‐top fermenters, the wine was kept on skins for 5 days with hand‐plunging and pump‐overs until it was gently pressed. The wine was then aged in French oak barriques for 10 months before being prepared for tirage in accordance with the traditional method. After approximately 14 months on lees to further develop the wine and add to the creamy palate, the wine was disgorged, and a fruitful dosage liqueur was added.