Sparkling Wines

What defines sparkling wine

Sparkling wine is defined by the presence of carbon dioxide, which creates bubbles and gives the wine its lively texture. This fizz can be produced in several ways, each shaping the style, flavour and price of the wine. From simple, fruit forward bottles to complex, aged examples, sparkling wine offers one of the broadest style ranges in the wine world.

Methods of production

The traditional method involves a second fermentation taking place in the bottle, creating fine bubbles and layered flavours. This approach is used for Champagne and many premium sparkling wines. The tank method, often used for Prosecco, ferments the wine in sealed tanks, preserving fresh fruit character and producing a lighter, more approachable style. Some wines gain bubbles through direct carbonation, resulting in simple, easy drinking fizz.

Styles and flavour profiles

Sparkling wines can be dry, off dry or sweet, with flavours ranging from green apple and citrus to brioche, nuts and ripe stone fruit. Fresh styles tend to focus on fruit and crisp acidity, while traditionally made wines often develop richer textures and savoury notes with age. Rosé sparkling wines add red berry character, while sparkling reds offer depth and fruit intensity with a refreshing lift.

Key regions and traditions

Italy is best known for Prosecco, valued for its freshness and drinkability. Spain produces excellent value traditional method wines, while France offers a wide range beyond Champagne, including refined Crémant styles. Other wine producing countries also create distinctive sparkling wines, reflecting local grapes, climates and traditions.

Choosing sparkling wine

Think about the occasion and food pairing when selecting sparkling wine. Light, crisp styles work well as aperitifs, while more complex wines suit meals and special occasions. Filters allow you to refine by country, sweetness, organic or vegan status, bottle size and price, making it easy to match the wine to your needs.

FAQs

Is all sparkling wine made the same way?
No. Sparkling wine can be made using traditional bottle fermentation, tank fermentation or direct carbonation, each producing different styles.

Is Prosecco always sweet?
No. Many Prosecco wines are dry or off dry, with fresh fruit flavours and lively acidity.

Can sparkling wine be paired with food?
Yes. Sparkling wine pairs well with seafood, fried foods, light meats and even richer dishes depending on the style.

Does sparkling wine need to be expensive to be good?
Not at all. Excellent sparkling wines are available at many price points across different regions and styles.