Petaluma Croser Vintage 2013

Sparkling is the generic name for all wines outside the Champagne region of France that have carbon dioxide in them for their signature fizziness. This can be the result of natural fermentation in the bottle (known as méthode champenoise for Champagne), in a large tank designed to withstand the pressures involved (known as the Charmat process), or as a result of an injection of carbon dioxide. Outside of Champagne, the French sparkling Crémant boasts a creamy style unique to that region, whilst popular international white Sparklings include Prosecco (Italy), Asti (Italy), Cava (Spain), Sekt (Germany and Austria), and Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand). Popular sparkling reds include Brachetto (Italy), Sparkling Shiraz (Australia) and Sparkling Rosé, which is produced in many regions. Major French Champagne houses like Chandon and Deutz are also now producing Sparkling wines in Australia and New Zealand in the méthode champenoise manner. The style of Sparkling wines can range from brut (very dry) to doux (sweet) and all make a fantastic apéritif, brunch or dessert accompaniment.

The cool climate and changing seasons of the beautiful Adelaide Hills is responsible for some of Australia's best wines. This region standing high in the Mount Lofty Ranges is especially noted for its modern Australian Chardonnay and fresh Sauvignon Blanc. Riesling, Pinot Noir and Sparkling wines are also all hallmark wines of the Hills. Vines were first planted in the region in 1839, which today boasts around 90 wineries. One of the largest geographical wine regions in Australia, the Adelaide Hills is all about elegant wines of great finesse and varietal intensity.