Chandon Pinot Noir Shiraz
Sparkling Red. A unique Australian specialty, specifically a 'Sparkling Shiraz' style blend. It is fermented in the 'Méthode Traditionnelle' (the same way as Champagne) but remains a vibrant, deep red color. · Chandon Australia (Moët & Chandon / LVMH). Established in 1986, Chandon Australia is the domestic arm of the world-famous French Champagne house Moët & Chandon. It is considered a premier producer of Australian sparkling wine, known for blending traditional French techniques with bold Australian fruit.
Vintage: Non-Vintage (NV). Like most commercial sparkling wines, this is a multi-vintage blend designed for a consistent 'house style' year after year, blending younger fresh fruit with older reserve wines for complexity.
Type
Sparkling Red. A unique Australian specialty, specifically a 'Sparkling Shiraz' style blend. It is fermented in the 'Méthode Traditionnelle' (the same way as Champagne) but remains a vibrant, deep red color.
Producer
Chandon Australia (Moët & Chandon / LVMH). Established in 1986, Chandon Australia is the domestic arm of the world-famous French Champagne house Moët & Chandon. It is considered a premier producer of Australian sparkling wine, known for blending traditional French techniques with bold Australian fruit.
Country
Australia. Australia is a powerhouse of 'New World' wine, famous for its diverse climates and the iconic status of Shiraz. It has a rigorous GI (Geographical Indication) system and is a leader in technical winemaking innovation.
Vintage
Non-Vintage (NV). Like most commercial sparkling wines, this is a multi-vintage blend designed for a consistent 'house style' year after year, blending younger fresh fruit with older reserve wines for complexity.
Region & Appellation
Yarra Valley / South Eastern Australia. While based in the Yarra Valley (Victoria), this specific blend often utilizes fruit from across cool-climate regions in South Eastern Australia to maintain consistency and balance between the two distinct varieties.
Grape Varieties
Pinot Noir and Shiraz. The Pinot Noir provides acidity, red fruit elegance, and structure, while the Shiraz adds depth, spice, dark berry flavors, and the characteristic Australian 'punch'.
Color & Appearance
Deep vibrant ruby to garnet. It displays a fine, persistent bead (bubbles) and a creamy mousse. The intensity is deep, indicating the heavy skin contact from the Shiraz component.
Aroma Profile
A bouquet of ripe black cherries, plums, and raspberries from the Pinot, overlaid with the cracked black pepper, liquorice, and subtle spice notes of Shiraz. Tertiary notes of toast and yeast are present from lees aging.
Tasting Notes
The palate is a celebratory explosion of juicy dark forest fruits balanced by a crisp acidity. The bubbles provide a creamy texture that softens the tannins of the Shiraz. The finish is clean, long, and surprisingly refreshing for a red wine.
Flavor Profile
Prominent flavors of blackberry jam, mulberries, and red currants, followed by hints of clove, cinnamon, and a touch of savory earthiness. It is fruit-forward but structurally complex.
Body & Texture
Medium to Full-bodied. It has a rich, velvety mouthfeel due to the Shiraz, but the carbonation and Pinot Noir acidity keep it from feeling heavy or cloying.
Acidity & Tannins
The acidity is medium-high, providing 'zip' and freshness. Tannins are present but are fine-grained and soft, specifically managed to avoid being astringent when served cold.
Sweetness Level
Dry to Off-Dry. Usually finished with a modest dosage (residual sugar) to balance the natural tannins of the red grapes and enhance the perception of fruit ripeness.
Alcohol Content
Approximately 13% - 13.5% ABV. This is typical for Australian sparkling reds, providing enough body to support the fruit without being overly 'hot'.
Aging & Oak
Aged on lees (yeast cells) for approximately 12 to 18 months using the traditional method. Oak influence is minimal to non-existent to preserve the primary fruit brightness, though some base wine may see older oak.
Food Pairings
A classic match for Christmas ham, Peking duck, barbecued ribs, or blue cheese. It is one of the few wines that pairs exceptionally well with turkey and cranberry sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve well-chilled at 6–9°C (43–48°F) in a standard white wine glass or a wide tulip glass to allow the aromas to breathe. Do not decant.
Price Range
Approximately $25.00 - $35.00 USD ($30 - $45 AUD). It represents a 'Premium' tier sparkling wine that offers excellent value compared to French equivalents.
Quality Assessment
88–91 points. It is a highly respected, high-quality commercial sparkling red that consistently wins medals in Australian wine shows. It is a benchmark for the accessible sparkling Shiraz/Pinot style.
Production Methods
Méthode Traditionnelle. Secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle. The grapes are fermented on skins briefly to extract color and tannin before being pressed and moved to the secondary fermentation stage.
Terroir
Cooler sites in Victoria and South Australia. The soil varies from volcanic loams to clay. The cool nights are essential for preserving the acidity in the Pinot Noir while allowing the Shiraz to ripen its phenolics.
History & Heritage
Chandon Australia was the first of the French Champagne houses to invest in Australia. Their 'Green Point' winery in the Yarra Valley became an icon of the region, pioneering the 'Sparkling Red' style for international audiences.
Interesting Facts
Sparkling Shiraz is a uniquely Australian wine tradition that dates back to the late 1800s (originally called 'Sparkling Burgundy'). It is the traditional wine served at Australian Christmas breakfasts and lunches.
Cellaring Potential
Designed for immediate consumption to enjoy its fresh fruit. However, it can be cellared for 2–4 years, where it will develop more savory, chocolatey, and leathery characteristics.
Similar Wines
Seppelt Show Sparkling Shiraz, Bleasdale The Sparkling Shiraz, or Primo Estate Joseph Sparkling Red. For those who like Lambrusco but want more body and complexity.