TASTING NOTES FOR Zema Estate Sparkling Merlot Coonawarra South Australia 2018

🍷 Appearance
Deep crimson red with a vibrant ruby mousse. Fine, persistent bubbles give it an eye-catching, lively sparkle.

👃 Aromas
Lifted and fragrant, showing ripe plum, blackberry and black cherry.
Hints of Coonawarra mint and subtle spice add complexity and regional character.

👅 Palate
Rich yet lively, delivering juicy dark berry fruits—plum, mulberry and blackberry.
A touch of liquorice and spice adds depth, while the fruit sweetness is beautifully balanced by freshness and structure.

🍈 Texture & Finish
Medium-bodied with a velvety texture and fine, creamy mousse.
Soft tannins provide structure, finishing smooth, refreshing and gently lingering with dark fruit and spice.

🍇 Overall Style
A classic Australian sparkling red—generous, fruit-driven and incredibly approachable.
Combines richness and softness with refreshing bubbles, making it both indulgent and easy to drink.

🍽️ Food Pairing
Perfect with roast turkey, glazed ham, barbecue meats or charcuterie. Also excellent with rich pâté or even chocolate-based desserts for a classic sparkling red pairing.

🥂 BBD Verdict
A seriously crowd-pleasing sparkling red that over-delivers—rich fruit, smooth texture and festive appeal.
Perfect for mixed dozens where you want something a little different that brings fun, flavour and instant drinkability to the lineup.

Cheers
Peter Turnbull
Better Buy The Dozen 🍷