Sparkling wine

Sparkling wine is simply wine that contains bubbles – the result of carbon dioxide forming during the winemaking process.

As with still wines, sparkling wines come in a range of styles and flavours, depending on where and how it’s made. Sparkling wine is made around the world, from the luxurious Champagne of France to the zesty Prosecco of Italy, and is available in red, white, or rosé styles, though white and rosé wines are the best known. But beyond the science and the names, sparkling wine is about the experience. It’s the pop of the cork, the rise of bubbles in a flute, cheers-ing a special milestone and that first refreshing sip. Whether raising a glass for a celebration or just making a regular day feel special, sparkling wine always adds a touch of magic.

There are three main methods to create sparkling wine: Traditional, Tank and Ancestral.

The Traditional Method is used to create premium sparkling wines such as Champagne (where it’s known as méthode champenoise on labels). The wine undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle, which produces those iconic bubbles and flavours.

The Tank Method, most commonly used for producing Prosecco, is a more efficient, cost-effective approach. The wine undergoes its secondary fermentation in a sealed tank.

The Ancestral Method is an older method of creating sparkling wine. Fermentation is paused by reducing the temperature. It continues again once the wine is bottled with the trapped carbon dioxide creating lightly effervescent wines.

For a more detailed dive into the winemaking methods behind Champagne and Prosecco, read our guide to the differences between Prosecco and Champagne.

Sparkling wine is produced around the world in a diverse range of styles. Each style is slightly different, offering a unique experience.

• Champagne is the world’s most famous bubbly and is made only in France’s Champagne region. This blended sparkling wine is made from various grape varieties, though Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are the most common. It's loved for its crisp acidity, velvety texture and complex tastes, which get better as it ages. Oysters, smoked salmon blinis and caviar are classic food pairings. For a heartier option, consider creamy brie or mushroom risotto. And never underestimate the magic of simple salted popcorn with a glass of Champagne!
• Cava, Spain’s sparkling gem, is easily recognisable thanks to its fine bubbles and balance of fresh and creamy flavours. It’s made using a similar method to Champagne and offers a light palate, sharp acidity and flavours of crisp apple, almond and juicy pear. Cava pairs wonderfully with tapas. Think Manchego cheese, olives and jamón ibérico. Try it with garlic prawns or a classic Spanish paella for a seafood twist.
• Crémant is made in various French wine regions using a similar method to Champagne, but the most famous come from the Loire Valley. Its name hints at its creamy feel, paired with a touch of dryness and flavours such as citrus, pear, chamomile and honey. Pair it with savoury quiches, grilled asparagus or a goat cheese salad. For a touch of indulgence, a plate of fresh strawberries is a good bet.
• Moscato d’Asti, from Italy's Asti province, is made using white Moscato grapes. With its modest alcohol content, pleasant sweetness and gentle sparkle, it’s one of the most easy-going sparkling wine styles. Moscato d'Asti is a dessert lover's dream, with flavours of peach and elderberry making for a match made in heaven with fruit tarts, peach cobbler or a light panna cotta. For a more exotic twist, try it with Thai mango sticky rice.
• Prosecco, from the village in Italy of the same name, is best known for its zesty citrus flavours, subtle sweetness and budget-friendly price tag. Its bubbles can range from a gentle fizz to a lively spumante. It’s fantastic with fried calamari, prosciutto-wrapped melon or a fresh Caprese salad. For those with a sweet tooth, a lemon sorbet or almond biscotti would be a tasty pairing.
• English Sparkling Wine is increasing in popularity. Made in a similar way to Champagne, it has characteristic hints of almond and brioche, combined with honey, citrus zests and a sharp green apple taste. Try this British delight with seafood like crab, Dover Sole or even traditional fish and chips.

Want to learn more? Read our guide to the different types of sparkling wine.

Want the best from your bubbly? Aim to serve it cool, between 4-10°C. Pop it in the fridge for about three hours or give it a quick 30-minute chill on ice, and you’re good to go.

Serve your sparkling wine in a classic flute glass. Their tall and slender design isn’t just about looking elegant. The long stem keeps your hands from warming the wine, while the extended bowl lets those bubbles pop for longer. And that narrow rim? It’s all about directing those lovely aromas straight to you with every sip.

Once opened, these wines can lose their sparkle quickly. While red and white wines might last between 3-5 days when properly stored after opening, sparkling wines can lose their pep within 1-3 days.

Be sure to use a proper sparkling wine stopper to help lock in that fizz. And stash it back in your fridge once opened. 

 Read our tips to improve the lifespan of your wine.