Azahara is the Australian sparkling wine made by the Spanish owners of Deakin and Katnook Estates. They also own Freixenet and Segura Viudas so there’s a small amount of pedigree when it comes to bubbles. Azahara is an ancient city on the outskirts of Cordoba, Spain and also meaning orange blossom” so there’s a double connection to the owners and the citrus growing history of the vineyard region.

Azahara, Sparkling Chardonnay/Pinot Noir, Murray Darling  NV

Yep, that’s a bling sticker from the Decanter Awards in 2012, so not this particular release, but certainly created with the same intent and style. Made by the charmat (tank fermentation) method, this shows light lemonade citrus crispness, with lingering strawberry flavours. Light white flower blossom from being chardonnay dominant (75%). Light cracker biscuit complexity, the mousse doesn’t feel to rough or forced, yet definitely aperitif style. Good value.

RRP: $15 (but probably found much cheaper)

Alc: 12%

Wine sample courtesy of Azahara Wines