d’Arenberg Peppermint Paddock Sparkling Chambourcin McLaren Vale - 8.9 - James James Meléndez / Jaime Patricio Meléndez

Don’t let the name fool you. Peppermint Paddock, as far as I understand, is the presence of Peppermint where these Chambourcin grow. Australians produce an abundance of red sparkling wines everything from Merlot to Cabernet Sauvignon to Chambourcin. This sparkling wine is deep jewel toned and presents unexpected components like chocolate powder to just crushed blackberry. This red sparkling is ideal not just for turkey but for a hot mid-summer dinner.

© June 2007 James Meléndez / Jaime Patricio Meléndez

Wirra Wirra RSW - Shiraz McLaren Vale - 2001 - 9.2 - James Meléndez / Jaime Patrico Meléndez

Wirra Wirra RSW not a terribly well known label in the US. This wine is sometimes difficult to find depending on where you live. This wine presents continuous a pleasing packets of pepper and eucalyptus; traces of cardamom balanced with dark fruit.

© James Meléndez / Jaime Patricio Meléndez