2004 Hardys Oomoo Sparkling Shiraz

For many years now (actually forever), Hardys Ed Carr has had the best budget-priced sparkling shiraz on the market as the Banrock Station has been Quaff's best since the first edition of the book. Although the tastings for Quaff 2010 are well under way, I haven't come across the Banrock Station yet. The best that I have seen so far is this new Hardys label - made, naturally, by Ed Carr and his team. Oomoo, a re-release of a nineteenth century label of Hardys, originally specialised in McLaren Vale Shiraz, slipped to Grenache Shiraz and Unwooded Chardonnay from the region before taking a step sideways to Coonawarra Cabernet, Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc and now Clare Valley Sparkling Shiraz. The Unwooded Chardonnay was only ok but the others have represented consistent and exceptional value for money. I'm a great lover of the quintessential Aussie fizz - sparkling shiraz, sigh, - and believe it's a great barbecue bubbly and just the drink pretty much anytime. Especially with Christmas dinner and anytime you are eating New Norcia Nutcake. As Sam Kekovich would have said when you were drinking it with lamb (a moderately successful partnership of flavours) 'You know it makes sense.' The 2004 Oomoo Sparkling Shiraz has fragrant, ripe maraschino cherry and blackberry jam flavours that are rich and concentrated. It is vibrant in the mid-palate and finishes refreshingly clean with a hint of sweetness.

Rating: Bloody Good 

Cost: $
14.95

Winemaker: Ed Carr

Wide availability in all Australian states. www.hardys.com.au

Reviewed: 29 May 2009 

Comments

[Paul F.]

I can't believe that you are still pushing that fizzy stuff. A

[Paul F.]

I can't believe that you are still pushing that fizzy red crap. As for good taste - it takes those with real taste to stand up against this stuff that has obviously atracted some of the great unwashed and demand that high standards be maintained.
Cheers

[meyan]

Thank you for sharing such good experience.tag heuer