Fox Creek 'Vixen' Sparkling Shiraz Cabernet Franc NV

Winemaking and Drinking

Fox Creek 'Vixen' Sparkling Shiraz Cabernet Franc NV is a distinctive and delightful sparkling red wine hailing from the esteemed Fox Creek Wines, located in the heart of McLaren Vale, South Australia. Known for its innovative approach to winemaking and commitment to quality, Fox Creek has crafted this unique blend that has gained a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts.

Origins and Winemaking Philosophy

Fox Creek Wines was established in 1984 by Helen and Jim Watts. They were medical professionals with a passion for viticulture and winemaking. The Watts family planted their first vineyards on a property that had been historically used for cattle grazing, transforming it into a flourishing vineyard. Their vision was to produce premium wines that reflect the unique terroir of McLaren Vale, an area renowned for its diverse soil types and Mediterranean climate, which are ideal for growing a wide variety of grape varieties.

The 'Vixen' Sparkling Shiraz Cabernet Franc NV is a testament to Fox Creek’s innovative spirit and dedication to quality. This wine is a non-vintage (NV) blend, which means it combines wines from multiple years to achieve a consistent and balanced profile. The blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Franc is particularly intriguing, as it brings together the bold, fruity characteristics of Shiraz with the elegant, aromatic qualities of Cabernet Franc.

Vineyard and Terroir

The grapes for 'Vixen' are sourced from Fox Creek’s own vineyards in McLaren Vale. This region’s unique combination of rich soils, ample sunshine, and cooling sea breezes from the nearby Gulf St Vincent creates ideal growing conditions. The Shiraz grapes thrive in the warm climate, developing intense flavors and robust tannins, while the Cabernet Franc, typically more delicate, benefits from the slightly cooler microclimates within the vineyard, allowing it to retain its distinct herbal and floral notes.

Fox Creek employs sustainable viticultural practices to ensure the health and vitality of their vineyards. This includes minimal use of chemicals, careful water management, and promoting biodiversity within the vineyard ecosystem. These practices not only protect the environment but also contribute to the quality and expression of the grapes.

Winemaking 

The winemaking process for 'Vixen' is meticulous and designed to highlight the best qualities of both grape varieties. The Shiraz and Cabernet Franc are fermented separately to preserve their unique characteristics. After fermentation, the wines are blended in carefully calculated proportions to achieve the desired balance of flavors. The wine undergoes a secondary fermentation in the bottle, a traditional method used to create sparkling wines, which adds complexity and effervescence.

The result is a vibrant and effervescent red wine with a deep ruby color. On the nose, 'Vixen' offers a bouquet of dark berries, plums, and hints of spice, complemented by the floral and herbal notes from the Cabernet Franc. The palate is rich and full-bodied, with flavors of ripe blackberries, cherries, and a touch of chocolate, balanced by a refreshing acidity and fine bubbles.

Fox Creek 'Vixen' Sparkling Shiraz Cabernet Franc NV stands out as a unique and innovative wine that captures the essence of McLaren Vale’s terroir and the winery’s commitment to quality. It is a delightful choice for those seeking a sparkling wine with depth, character, and a touch of the unexpected, perfect for celebrations and special occasions.