Mark braves the smolder and swelter of Arizona in late July to explain how Sparking Shiraz is the rare red that brings relief in scorchingly hot weather. A bubbly red like Sparking Shiraz or Lambrusco from Italy will delight and amaze your friends with its red bubbles and surprising powers of refreshment.

Featured wine:
The Chook Sparkling Shiraz NV (Australia, $16)

Other “Black Bubbles”:

Bleasdale Sparkling Shiraz “‘The Red Brute'” NV (Australia, $18)
Fox Creek Shiraz McLaren Vale Sparkling Burgundy Vixen NV (Australia, $13)
Mollydooker Sparkling Shraz “Goosebumps” 2006 (Australia, $52)
Paringa Sparkling Shiraz 2008 (Australia, $12)
Shingleback Sparkling Shiraz “Black Bubbles” NV (Australia, $17)

“Poosh It”

Judging a fierce battle of blonde ambition, Mark pits Drew Barrymore‘s Pinot Grigio against that of Ramona Singer of Bravo TV’s Real Housewives of New York City. A victor and a loser will be chosen.

Featured wines:
Barrymore Pinot Grigio 2011 (Italy, $18-20, Wilson Daniels Importers)
Ramona Pinot Grigio 2010 (Italy, $12-14, Opici Wines)

“Poosh It!”

Mark introduces us to two of South Africa’s greatest exports: high-quality wine and the multi-platinum-selling Parlotones.

Featured wines from South Africa:
Mulderbosch Chenin Blanc 2010 ($14)
De Morgenzon Chenin Blanc 2010 ($30)
Kanoncop Pinotage 2009 ($30)
Kanu Shiraz 2005 ($15)

Other winning wines from South Africa:
White
Cape Point Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2011 ($14)
Fairview Chardonnay “La Capra” 2010 ($12)
La Motte Sauvignon Blanc 2011 ($18)
Riebeek Cellars Chenin Blanc “Pieter Crythoff” 2011 ($9)
Simonsig Chenin Blanc 2010 ($12)
Red
Fairvalley Pinotage 2010 ($11)
Fleur du Cap Bergkelder Shiraz 2009 ($12)
Goats do Roam Red (Rhone Blend, $10)
Graham Beck Cabernet Sauvignon Game Reserve 2009 ($16)
Jam Jar Shiraz 2011 ($12)
The Winery of Good Hope Pinotage 2011 ($12)

“Poosh It!”

Mexican Wine (In Sync with Cinco de Mayo) – Drink Bravely with Mark Oldman – Episode 62