There’s an unmistakable Australian flair that runs through our sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir. Picture that first pop of the cork and the lively fizz racing up the glass, this is a style Aussies have truly made their own. The blend, classic as it is, really shines in our cool-climate sites like Tasmania, Yarra Valley and the Adelaide Hills. That means a rush of crisp green apple, lemon, and the unmistakable creamy complexity that comes from time spent on lees, all buoyed by a razor-sharp line of acidity that keeps things lively and moreish.

Our best sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir takes cues from Champagne but doesn’t just follow the leader. The detail comes from the way our winemakers play with oxygen and oak, or go for the clean, pure style that lets the fruit absolutely leap from the glass. There’s biscuit and cashew, usually a hint of apple blossom, and just enough red berry thanks to that Pinot Noir influence, never too heavy but adding lovely mouthfeel and a bit of subtle structure.

Australian sparkling is just as likely to be poured at a backyard barbecue as it is at a high-end restaurant. You’ll spot the top names like Jansz, Arras, Chandon and Croser turning out bottles that give French fizz a genuine run for its money, with price points that don’t require you to wait for a special occasion. It’s a classic match with oysters and prawns, just as at home with roast chook or even a bucket of fried chicken if the mood strikes. Australians embrace that versatility, it’s a wine made for our lifestyle.