Foggo Sparkling Grenache NV aka White Myriah

Wine: Foggo Cleanskin White Myriah
Type: Sparkling Grenache
Year: NV
Price: $10
Date: 27/02/2011
Reason for purchase: Part of the birthday party wine selection.

Review: Unofficially named "White Myriah" by our little wine group (as in the baby version of Foggo's Black Myriah Sparkling Shiraz), this Grenache is a fantasticly light and fruity bubbly that is fit for all occasions.

While the Black Myriah is made using méthode Champenoise, the Grenache is made using bulk tank fermentation and bottled under pressure. This produces lovely light bubbles, that although aren't as special as Black Myriah, are still excellent - and a million times better than forced carbonation.

It's a lovely summer drink, that is soft and smooth, not too sweet, yet not too powerful. A fantastic start to any dinner party. Anyone who has been disappointed with cheap sparkling Shiraz needs to give this a try. It will change your world!

Rating: 8/10 -DF-

d'Arenberg Stump Jump GSM 2007

Wine: d'Arenberg Stump Jump
Type: Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre
Year: 2007
Price: $9 (approx)
Date: 24/01/2010
Reason for purchase: left over from party revellers

Review: This is my first review of one of the great d'arry wines.

The initial look and taste is very dark, thick and heavy. Something that is very inviting in a big, bold McLaren Vale wine.

First taste gives a really rich port or brandy flavour, that slowly mellows out and leaves without fuss. The smell gives the same impression.

There is a definate Shiraz burst at the start, but either the Grenache or Mourvedre settle it down and give it a clean finish.

The only thing that might be lacking is a longer Shiraz aftertaste. However that could be remedied with a couple of years in the cellar. Perhaps I'll put one away to test.

Overall I'm quite pleased with this entry level darry wine. I may even put it up against The Footbolt and see how it goes.

Given it's price and great taste, this wine is highly recommend.

Rating: 8/10 -DF-