Collection: Sparkling Wine

Key Characteristics

• Appearance: Pale gold to rose-pink hues, with fine, persistent bubbles (perlage).
• Aroma: Aromas vary widely but often include green apple, citrus, pear, brioche, almond, and floral notes, depending on the region and method of production.
• Flavor Profile:
  • Dry sparkling wines: Crisp and refreshing, with citrus, apple, and mineral notes.
  • Sweeter styles: Lush flavors of ripe fruits like peach, apricot, and tropical fruits.
  • Aged sparkling wines: Richer, with toasty, nutty, and honeyed undertones.
• Mouthfeel: Light to medium-bodied with a lively, effervescent texture and clean, refreshing finish.

Ideal Pairings

Sparkling wine’s versatility and acidity make it a delightful match for a wide variety of dishes:

• Light appetizers like smoked salmon, caviar, or prosciutto-wrapped melon.
• Oysters, shrimp, scallops, or sushi.
• Creamy cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, or triple-cream cheeses.
• Fried foods like tempura, fried chicken, or potato chips for a playful pairing.
• Light desserts like macarons, fruit tarts, or panna cotta.

Short History of Sparkling Wine

The origins of sparkling wine trace back to 16th-century France, with the Champagne region pioneering the development of the traditional method (méthode champenoise). Dom Pérignon, a monk often credited with refining Champagne production, played a significant role in its rise to prominence.

Sparkling wine styles spread globally, with Prosecco gaining fame in Italy, Cava emerging from Spain, and Crémant representing sparkling wines from other French regions. Today, sparkling wine is made in nearly every wine-producing country, using a variety of techniques and grape combinations.

Regions That Produce It

Sparkling wine is produced worldwide, with notable regions including:

• France: Champagne (luxurious and refined), Crémant (sparkling wines from other regions).
• Italy: Prosecco (light and fruity), Franciacorta (traditional method).
• Spain: Cava (value-driven, made in the traditional method).
• USA: California (Napa, Sonoma), New Mexico (e.g., Gruet).
• Australia: Sparkling Shiraz, Tasmania.
• Germany: Sekt (light and fruity).
• South Africa: Cap Classique (traditional method).

Styles of Sparkling Wine

1. Brut Nature: Bone-dry, with little to no residual sugar.
2. Extra Brut: Very dry, with minimal sweetness.
3. Brut: The most common style, dry with balanced acidity and fruit.
4. Extra Dry: Slightly sweeter than Brut, with a hint of residual sugar.
5. Sec/Dry: Noticeably sweet but not overly sugary.
6. Demi-Sec: Sweet, often paired with desserts.
7. Doux: The sweetest style, ideal for rich desserts.

Sparkling wine’s effervescent charm, diverse styles, and ability to complement a wide array of dishes make it a perennial favorite for both special celebrations and everyday indulgence. Whether you’re sipping Champagne, Prosecco, or Cava, sparkling wine brings a touch of elegance to any moment.