Sparkling wine guide – your guide to understanding the basics of sparkling wine.
Pop! Fizz! Clink! There’s just something about bubbles that turns any occasion into a celebration – even if it’s just making it to Friday. Whether you’re a fizz fanatic or just dabbling in the world of sparkling wine, this guide will help you choose the perfect bottle, understand the difference between the styles, and, most importantly, enjoy every sip.
What is sparkling wine?
Sparkling wine is basically wine with bubbles. These bubbles are carbon dioxide, and they’re either naturally produced through fermentation (the fancy way) or added later (the quick and slightly less fancy way). The result? That lovely, fizzy, tingly drink that makes everything feel a bit more special.
Is Champagne the same as sparkling wine?
All Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is Champagne. Champagne only comes from the Champagne region in France and must follow very specific rules in how it’s made. So, if it’s made elsewhere – even if it’s using the same grapes and method – it’s not technically Champagne. But don’t worry; there are plenty of non-Champagne sparkling wines that are just as delicious and usually a lot more affordable.
Types of Sparkling Wine You Should Know
Here’s a little bubbly breakdown so you know what you’re sipping:
🥂 Champagne (France)
Made using the traditional method (aka Méthode Champenoise), this is the most famous of the sparkling wines. Expect notes of brioche, citrus, and green apple. It’s dry, elegant, and very ‘treat yourself’ worthy.
Try it if you like: Rich, complex flavours and a bit of French flair.
🇪🇸 Cava (Spain)
Also made in the traditional method, but using Spanish grapes like Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarel-lo. Cava is a great alternative to Champagne and much easier on the wallet.
Try it if you like: Dry bubbles with a zesty kick and amazing value.
🇮🇹 Prosecco (Italy)
Made using the Charmat method, Prosecco is lighter, fruitier, and more floral than Champagne or Cava. It uses the Glera grape and is usually a crowd-pleaser.
Try it if you like: Easy-drinking, juicy bubbles perfect for brunches and spritzes.
🇮🇹 Franciacorta (Italy)
Often referred to as “Italy’s answer to Champagne,” Franciacorta is made using the traditional method and aged on the lees, giving it elegant, toasty notes. It’s drier and more refined than Prosecco. In my opinion, Franciacorta deserves way more attention.
Best for: Fans of Champagne looking for a classy Italian twist.
🇩🇪 Sekt (Germany)
German sparkling wine made from Riesling or Pinot Blanc grapes. It can be sweet or dry and tends to be very aromatic.
Try it if you like: Fruity, floral fizz that’s a bit different.
🇫🇷 Crémant (France, not Champagne)
Made like Champagne but in other regions of France, like Alsace or the Loire Valley. Crémant often offers fantastic value and elegance.
Try it if you like: Champagne vibes without the Champagne price tag.
🧪 Pet Nat (Pétillant Naturel)
This is natural wine’s fizzy cousin. It’s bottled before fermentation finishes, so the bubbles form naturally in the bottle. It’s a little wild, a little funky, and totally on-trend.
Try it if you like: Raw, unfiltered, and adventurous wines.
How to choose a sparkling wine
Look for “Brut” on the label if you want something dry. If you prefer it sweeter, go for “Demi-Sec” or “Dolce.” If it says “Extra Brut” or “Brut Nature,” brace yourself – it’ll be extra dry.
Price-wise, you can get great sparkling wines at every budget. If you’re splashing out, Champagne is the obvious choice. For everyday sipping, Prosecco or Cava are fabulous. Cava would be my personal choice.
Food Pairings for Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wine is super food-friendly, thanks to its acidity and bubbles. Here’s what to pair it with:
- Champagne: Oysters, fried chicken, popcorn (seriously).
- Cava: Tapas, manchego cheese, seafood paella.
- Prosecco: Antipasti, creamy pasta, strawberries.
- Franciacorta: Lobster rolls, truffle pasta, roast chicken, Parmigiano Reggiano.
- Sekt: Spicy dishes, fresh fruit, sushi.
- Crémant: Goat cheese, smoked salmon, quiche.
- Pet Nat: Funky cheese, charcuterie, or anything from a farmer’s market.
My Sparkling Wine Recommendations
Here are some of my go-to bottles. These are perfect for gifting, celebrations, or just because it’s Tuesday.
🥂 Affordable and Delicious
- Vilarnau Cava Brut Reserva (Spain) – Light, zesty, and under €15.
- Lunetta Prosecco (Italy) – Fruity, floral and great for mimosas.
- Bouvet-Ladubay Crémant de Loire Excellence Brut, NV (France) – Elegant, dry and full of French charm.
💖 A Bit Fancy
- Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial (France) – Classic and iconic.
- Raventós i Blanc Cava (Spain) – Organic, complex and well worth the price.
- Sekt by Von Buhl Riesling Brut (Germany) – Dry, minerally, and a conversation starter.
🧡 Try Something Different
- Pet Nat Rosé – Wild Nature (France) – Slightly funky, super fun.
- Lambrusco Grasparossa (Italy) – Yes, it’s red and sparkling. Trust me.
- Berlucchi 2014 ’61 Nature Franciacorta (Italy) – Wonderful brioche, buttery pastry notes.
Final Sip
Whether you’re celebrating something big or just making the most of a midweek treat, sparkling wine always delivers a little joy in every glass. There’s a whole world of bubbles beyond Champagne, and it’s well worth exploring.
So go on! Pop a cork, pour a glass, and let it sparkle.
What did you think of my sparkling wine guide? Did you find it useful or helpful at all? Did I leave anything out? If so, let me know in the comments below. I love hearing from you.
Here are some more of my wine guides and recommendations…
Spanish Food & Wine Pairing – Expert Tips
Rosé Wine Guide and Recommendations
Rosé Wine Food Pairing – Expert Tips for Pink Tipples
Franciacorta Wine Guide – Italian Sparkling Wine
White Wine Guide and Recommendations
White Wine Food Pairing – Expert Tips and Recommendations
Best Wine Pairings for French Onion Soup: Expert Tips and Recipes
Red Wine Guide and Recommendations
