Whether you own a small fishing boat, sailboat or a larger yacht, a boat christening ceremony is a fun way to welcome your boat to the world. These ceremonies date back thousands of years, and are a great way to celebrate with friends and ensure safe passages for a lifetime of adventures on the water.
So if you were going to treat yourself to that ‘special’ wine to christen your boat, what would you choose?
Australian sparkling wine has come of age recently, showing fantastic growth domestically and also through the export markets, especially in China. Affordable Australian wines run rings around the cheaper imports.
Jansz, Chandon, Josef Cromy, Sidewood and Petaluma are all worth seeking out in the $20-$30 price range. The Pirie NV from Tasmania’s Tamar Valley is one of Australia’s most highly acclaimed wines and a bargain under $30. Dal Zotto Pucino Prosecco ($20) is another sparkling wine with lower alcohol content and gaining a strong following.
Dreamboat bubbles, if money is no problem…
The House of Arras premium sparkling wines, superbly crafted by Ed Carr, cannot be beaten for quality, using only the best Tasmanian chardonnay and pinot noir. Multiple trophies are awarded to their best cuvee’s, on a scale second to none. They rival the best French Champagnes, at a fraction of the cost.
About Australian wines
Esteemed wine critic, Janis Robinson OBE, believes the premium chardonnay she tastes each year from Australia are rivaling the top grand cru white Burgundies, at a fraction of the price. She also has similar praises for Australian reds.
Australia is experiencing a golden age of wine. Never before has there been a better time to enjoy world-class wines at very affordable prices. Through the 1990s and early 2000s, the export growth was phenomenal, largely fuelled by the good-value, large-volume sector, produced mainly out of irrigated vineyards from our hot regions, like the Riverland.
Producers are now working out what varieties suit what regions, and planting accordingly. Vineyards are settling into these landscapes. Winemakers are able to let the fruit shine, and the resulting wines are putting the rest of the world on notice.
By Alfie Pardoe
