WITH 13.7% alcohol, deep purple hues and persistent tiny bubbles, this lovely De Bortoli Non-Vintage Woodfired Heathcote Sparkling Shiraz shows gamey aromas and plum front-palate flavour. The middle palate has cassis, bramble jelly, spearmint and mocha oak and the finish smooth earthy tannins. PRICE: $22.
FOOD MATCH: cherry-glazed roast duck and balsmic dressing.
AGEING: seven years.
