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The Effervescence of Sparkling Wine: From Champagne to Global Bubbles
July 25, 2024

The Effervescence of Sparkling Wine: From Champagne to Global Bubbles

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction to Sparkling Wine
  2. The Champagne Region: Birthplace of Bubbly
  3. Champagne vs Sparkling Wine: What's the Difference?
  4. Sparkling Wine Production Methods
  5. Types of Sparkling Wine Around the World
  6. Pairing Sparkling Wine with Food
  7. Serving and Storing Sparkling Wine
  8. Sparkling Wine in Cocktails
  9. Sustainable Practices in Sparkling Wine Production
  10. FAQs about Sparkling Wine
  11. Conclusion

Introduction to Sparkling Wine

Fresh from the experience of Taste Champagne Sydney, I couldn't resist dedicating this week's blog to the captivating world of sparkling wines. This stellar event showcased an array of effervescent delights, reigniting my passion for these bubbles that have enchanted wine lovers for centuries. While we've got a treasure trove of information to share, if you're pressed for time, feel free to skip ahead to the FAQs for quick insights.

In this exploration of sparkling wine, we'll journey through its rich history, uncover the secrets of its production, and discover the many ways to enjoy these delightful bubbles. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there's always something new to learn about the captivating world of sparkling wine.

From the crisp, fruit-forward notes of a Prosecco to the complex, yeasty character of a vintage Champagne, sparkling wines offer a diverse range of flavours and styles to suit every palate and occasion. We'll explore everything from production methods to food pairings, ensuring you'll be well-equipped to navigate the exciting world of sparkling wines.

The Champagne Region: Birthplace of Bubbly

When we talk about sparkling wine, it's impossible not to start with Champagne. This iconic region in northeastern France is where it all began, and its name has become synonymous with luxury and celebration.

A Brief History of Champagne

The story of Champagne is as effervescent as the wine itself, filled with myth, innovation, and royal intrigue. It would take a book to write up the whole history, however here are some quick points on key events.

  • Ancient Roots: The Champagne region has been producing wine since Roman times, but these early wines were still, not sparkling.

  • Accidental Bubbles: In the 16th century, the region's cool climate often caused fermentation to stop in winter and restart in spring, producing natural carbonation. Initially, this was seen as a flaw.

  • Dom Pérignon's Contributions: Contrary to popular belief, the Benedictine monk Dom Pérignon didn't invent sparkling Champagne. However, in the late 17th century, he made significant improvements to wine production methods, including blending grapes and improving cork sealing.

  • Royal Seal of Approval: Champagne gained prestige in the 17th and 18th centuries when it became associated with French royalty. Louis XIV's love for the wine from the Champagne region helped cement its reputation.

  • Industrial Revolution: The 19th century saw technological advancements that made Champagne production more reliable and widespread. Innovations in glass-making allowed for stronger bottles that could withstand the pressure of carbonation.

  • Modern Era: Today, Champagne is protected by strict regulations and continues to be synonymous with celebration and luxury worldwide.

The Terroir of Champagne

The unique terroir of Champagne plays a crucial role in creating its world-renowned sparkling wines. The region's chalky soils, cool climate, and specific grape varieties combine to produce wines of exceptional quality and distinctive character.

  • Soil: The chalky subsoil of Champagne provides excellent drainage and imparts a unique minerality to the wines.
  • Climate: The cool, continental climate of the region contributes to the high acidity in the grapes, essential for good sparkling wine.
  • Grapes: The three primary grape varieties used in Champagne production are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.

Champagne's Sub-regions

Champagne is divided into several sub-regions, each contributing its own character to the final blends:

  1. Montagne de Reims: Known for its Pinot Noir grapes
  2. Côte des Blancs: Famous for Chardonnay
  3. Vallée de la Marne: Primarily grows Pinot Meunier
  4. Côte des Bar: Increasingly recognised for its Pinot Noir

The Legacy of Dom Pérignon

No discussion of Champagne would be complete without mentioning Dom Pérignon, the Benedictine monk often credited with 'inventing' Champagne. While the truth is more nuanced – sparkling wine was not a deliberate invention but rather a happy accident – Dom Pérignon did play a crucial role in improving the quality and production methods of wine in the Champagne region.

Grower Champagne: A Rising Trend

While large Champagne houses have dominated the market for centuries, there's a growing interest in grower Champagnes. These are produced by the same estate that owns the vineyards, offering a more terroir-focused expression of Champagne. Some excellent examples include:

Today, Champagne continues to set the standard for sparkling wine worldwide. Its rich history, combined with ongoing innovation and strict production regulations, ensures that Champagne remains at the pinnacle of the sparkling wine world. Whether you're enjoying a vintage bottle from a historic house or exploring the unique expressions of grower Champagnes, you're not just tasting wine – you're experiencing centuries of tradition and craftsmanship in every sip.

Champagne vs Sparkling Wine: What's the Difference?

While all Champagne is sparkling wine, not all sparkling wine is Champagne. This distinction is crucial for understanding the world of bubbly beverages. Let's break down the key differences:

Geographic Origin

  • Champagne: Can only be produced in the Champagne region of northeastern France. This geographical limitation is strictly enforced and protected by law.
  • Sparkling Wine: Can be produced anywhere in the world. Examples include Prosecco from Italy, Cava from Spain, and sparkling wines from various regions in France and beyond.

Production Method

  • Champagne: Must be made using the traditional method (méthode champenoise), where the second fermentation occurs in the bottle.
  • Sparkling Wine: Can be made using various methods, including:
    • Traditional method (used for high-quality sparkling wines worldwide)
    • Tank method (Charmat method), often used for Prosecco
    • Ancestral method, used for Pétillant Naturel wines

Grape Varieties

  • Champagne: Primarily uses Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
  • Sparkling Wine: Can use a wide variety of grape varieties depending on the region and style.

Ageing Requirements

  • Champagne: Non-vintage Champagne must be aged for a minimum of 15 months, while vintage Champagne requires at least 36 months of ageing.
  • Sparkling Wine: Ageing requirements vary widely depending on the region and style.

Examples from Our Collection

To illustrate these differences, let's look at some examples:

  1. Champagne:

  2. Other French Sparkling Wines:

  3. Italian Sparkling Wine:

  4. Australian Sparkling Wine:

Quality and Price

While Champagne is often associated with luxury and higher prices, it's important to note that excellent sparkling wines are produced worldwide, often at more accessible price points. The key is to understand the style you enjoy and explore various options within that style.

In Conclusion

Understanding the difference between Champagne and other sparkling wines allows you to appreciate the diversity of the sparkling wine world. Whether you're enjoying a prestigious bottle of Champagne or exploring sparkling wines from other regions, each offers its own unique expression of terroir, winemaking tradition, and style. The world of sparkling wine is vast and exciting, with something to suit every palate and occasion.

Sparkling Wine Production Methods

The production of sparkling wine is a fascinating process that combines art, science and tradition. Different methods can result in varying styles, flavours and qualities of sparkling wine. Let's explore the main production methods used around the world:

1. Traditional Method (Méthode Champenoise)

This is the method used for Champagne and many high-quality sparkling wines worldwide.

Steps:

  1. Production of a still base wine
  2. Adding the 'liqueur de tirage' (yeast and sugar) to start the second fermentation
  3. Second fermentation in the bottle, creating bubbles
  4. Ageing on lees (dead yeast cells) for added complexity
  5. Riddling (rotating) the bottles to collect sediment in the neck
  6. Disgorgement to remove the sediment
  7. Adding the dosage (sugar solution) to balance the wine

Example: 2018 Pierre Paillard 'Verzenay' Grand Cru Vieilles Vignes Extra Brut

2. Tank Method (Charmat Method)

This method is used for many Proseccos and other fresh, fruity sparkling wines.

Steps:

  1. Production of a base wine
  2. Second fermentation occurs in large, pressurised tanks
  3. The wine is filtered and bottled under pressure

Example: NV Matho Prosecco Brut DOC

3. Ancestral Method (Méthode Ancestrale)

This ancient method is experiencing a revival, especially for natural and 'pet-nat' wines.

Steps:

  1. Fermentation begins in tank
  2. Wine is bottled before fermentation is complete
  3. Fermentation finishes in the bottle, trapping CO2

Example: 2021 Frederic Cossard La Chassornade Pet-Nat

4. Transfer Method

This is a variation of the traditional method, used for some New World sparkling wines.

Steps:

  1. Second fermentation occurs in the bottle
  2. Instead of riddling and disgorgement, wine is transferred to a tank, filtered and rebottled

5. Continuous Method

This industrial method is used for large-scale, inexpensive sparkling wine production.

Steps:

  1. Base wine passes through a series of pressurised tanks
  2. Yeast is trapped in the tanks, creating a constant fermentation process

Comparison of Methods

Method Bubble Quality Complexity Labour Intensity Common Examples
Traditional Fine, persistent High Very High Champagne, Cava, high-quality sparkling wines
Tank Larger, less persistent Medium Medium Prosecco, many New World sparkling wines
Ancestral Variable Medium to High Medium Pétillant Naturel (Pet-Nat)
Transfer Fine Medium to High High Some New World sparkling wines
Continuous Large Low Low Inexpensive sparkling wines

Impact on Flavour and Quality

The production method significantly impacts the final product:

  • Traditional Method wines often have more complex flavours due to extended lees ageing, with fine, persistent bubbles.
  • Tank Method wines tend to be fruitier and fresher, with larger bubbles that dissipate more quickly.
  • Ancestral Method wines can be cloudy with variable bubble size, offering unique, often funky flavours.

Understanding these methods can enhance your appreciation of sparkling wines. Whether you're enjoying a meticulously crafted Champagne or a fresh, fruity Prosecco, each glass represents a unique journey from grape to bubbles.

Types of Sparkling Wine Around the World

While Champagne may be the most famous, the world of sparkling wine is vast and diverse. Let's explore some of the most notable sparkling wines from different regions:

France

  1. Champagne: The gold standard of sparkling wine, produced in the Champagne region. Example: NV Pierre Paillard 'Les Parcelles' Bouzy Grand Cru Extra Brut

  2. Crémant: High-quality sparkling wines made outside Champagne using the traditional method. Example: 2020 Domaine Amelie & Charles Sparr Cremant d'Alsace

  3. Pétillant Naturel (Pet-Nat): Made using the ancestral method, often with a cloudy appearance and funky flavours. Example: 2021 Frederic Cossard La Chassornade Pet-Nat

Italy

  1. Prosecco: Light, fruity sparkling wine from the Veneto region, made using the tank method. Example: NV Matho Prosecco Brut DOC

  2. Franciacorta: Premium sparkling wine from Lombardy, made using the traditional method.

  3. Asti: Sweet, low-alcohol sparkling wine from Piedmont.

Spain

  1. Cava: Traditional method sparkling wine, primarily from Catalonia.

Germany

  1. Sekt: German sparkling wine, which can be made using various methods.

Australia

  1. Tasmania: Known for high-quality traditional method sparkling wines. Example: 2017 Ossa Methode Traditionnelle

  2. Adelaide Hills: Another region producing excellent sparkling wines.

New Zealand

  1. Marlborough: Known for crisp, vibrant sparkling wines.

United States

  1. California: Produces a range of sparkling wines.

England

  1. Sussex and Kent: Emerging regions producing high-quality traditional method sparkling wines.

Unique Styles

  1. Sparkling Red Wines: Popular in Australia, made from grapes like Shiraz.

  2. Moscato d'Asti: Semi-sparkling sweet wine from Italy. Example: 2021 Paolo Saracco Moscato d'Asti

Characteristics of Different Sparkling Wines

Type Region Method Typical Flavours Bubbles
Champagne Champagne, France Traditional Citrus, apple, brioche Fine, persistent
Prosecco Veneto, Italy Tank Pear, apple, floral Larger, less persistent
Cava Catalonia, Spain Traditional Apple, citrus, almond Fine, persistent
Crémant Various French regions Traditional Varies by region Fine, persistent
Pet-Nat Various Ancestral Varies widely, often fruity and funky Variable

Exploring the world of sparkling wine beyond Champagne can lead to delightful discoveries and new favourites. Whether you're enjoying a crisp Crémant with seafood or sipping a fun Pet-Nat on a sunny afternoon, each bottle tells a story of its origin and craftsmanship.

Pairing Sparkling Wine with Food

Sparkling wine is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. Its crisp acidity and effervescence make it an excellent companion to a wide range of dishes. Let's explore some classic and innovative pairings:

Classic Pairings

  1. Oysters and Seafood: The minerality and acidity of Champagne or Blanc de Blancs sparkling wines complement seafood beautifully. Try: NV Andre Robert 'Les Jardins du Mesnil' Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut with fresh oysters.

  2. Caviar: The richness of caviar pairs wonderfully with the crisp bubbles of Champagne.

  3. Fried Foods: The acidity and bubbles in sparkling wine cut through rich, fried foods. Try: NV Dehours Grande Reserve Brut with fish and chips.

  4. Soft Cheeses: Creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert pair beautifully with sparkling wines. Try: NV Matho Prosecco Brut DOC with a cheese board.

Innovative Pairings

  1. Sushi: The clean, crisp nature of sparkling wine complements the delicate flavours of sushi. Try: 2018 Pierre Paillard 'Verzenay' Grand Cru Vieilles Vignes Extra Brut with a sushi platter.

  2. Popcorn: The saltiness of popcorn pairs surprisingly well with the acidity of sparkling wine.

  3. BBQ: A robust rosé Champagne can stand up to grilled meats and smoky flavours. Try: NV Dehours 'Oeil de Perdrix' Extra Brut with barbecued ribs.

  4. Spicy Asian Cuisine: The sweetness in some sparkling wines can balance spicy dishes. Try: 2021 Paolo Saracco Moscato d'Asti with spicy Thai food.

Pairing by Style

  1. Brut Nature (Zero Dosage): These bone-dry wines pair well with raw bar items, light seafood, and salty snacks. Try: NV Dehours Brut Nature with a seafood platter.

  2. Extra Brut: Excellent with shellfish, sushi, and light chicken dishes.

  3. Brut: Versatile with most foods, from appetisers to main courses.

  4. Extra Dry: Pairs well with fruit-based desserts and spicy Asian cuisine.

  5. Demi-Sec: Great with foie gras, blue cheese, and fruity desserts.

Regional Pairings

  1. Champagne with French Cuisine: Try a vintage Champagne with coq au vin or beef bourguignon.

  2. Prosecco with Italian Antipasti: The light, fruity nature of Prosecco pairs well with cured meats and olives.

  3. Cava with Spanish Tapas: The versatility of Cava makes it a great match for various tapas dishes.

Tips for Successful Pairing

  1. Match intensity: Pair delicate dishes with lighter sparkling wines and robust dishes with fuller-bodied sparklers.

  2. Consider sweetness: Drier styles work well with savoury foods, while sweeter styles can balance spicy dishes or complement desserts.

  3. Experiment: Don't be afraid to try unconventional pairings. You might discover a new favourite combination!

Remember, the best pairing is ultimately the one you enjoy most. Whether you're sipping a crisp Blanc de Blancs with fresh oysters or enjoying a glass of rosé Champagne with your Sunday roast, sparkling wine can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

Serving and Storing Sparkling Wine

Proper serving and storage of sparkling wine can significantly enhance your enjoyment of these effervescent delights. Here's a guide to ensure you get the most out of every bottle:

Serving Temperature

The ideal serving temperature for most sparkling wines is between 6-10°C (43-50°F).

Glassware

The choice of glass can impact your sparkling wine experience:

  • Flute: Traditional choice, preserves bubbles but can limit aroma appreciation
  • Tulip Glass: Allows for better aroma development while maintaining effervescence
  • White Wine Glass: Increasingly popular for complex sparkling wines, allowing full aroma and flavour expression

Opening the Bottle

  1. Remove the foil covering the cork
  2. Untwist the wire cage, keeping your thumb on the cork
  3. Hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle
  4. Grip the cork and gently twist the bottle (not the cork)
  5. Allow the pressure to ease the cork out with a gentle 'sigh', not a loud pop. This is the 'proper' way, personally I like popping the cork.

Pouring

  • Pour slowly down the side of the tilted glass to preserve bubbles
  • Fill the glass about two-thirds full to allow space for aromas to collect

Storing Sparkling Wine

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of your sparkling wines:

  1. Temperature: Store at a consistent cool temperature, ideally between 10-15°C (50-59°F)

  2. Position: Store bottles horizontally to keep the cork moist and prevent it from drying out

  3. Light: Keep bottles away from direct sunlight or fluorescent light

  4. Humidity: Aim for 70-80% humidity to prevent cork shrinkage

  5. Vibration: Avoid storing near sources of vibration, which can disturb the sediment

  6. Timeframe:

    • Non-vintage Champagne: Ideally enjoyed within 3 to 5 years of purchase for optimal freshness and flavour.
    • Vintage Champagne: This exceptional wine not only delights upon release but also matures beautifully with time, often benefiting from being stored for 10 to 40 years.
    • Prosecco and most other sparkling wines: Best enjoyed young, within 1-2 years of purchase

After Opening

  • Use a sparkling wine stopper to preserve bubbles if you don't finish the bottle
  • Stored in the refrigerator with a stopper, sparkling wine can stay fresh for 1-3 days

Special Considerations

  • For large format bottles like magnums, double the chilling time
  • If you need to chill a bottle quickly, submerge it in a bucket of ice and water for about 20 minutes

By following these serving and storage guidelines, you'll ensure that each bottle of sparkling wine, whether it's a premium Champagne or a fresh Prosecco, is enjoyed at its best. Remember, the key is to treat your sparkling wines with care, from the cellar to the glass.

 

Sparkling Wine in Cocktails

Sparkling wine isn't just for sipping on its own; it's also a fantastic ingredient in cocktails. The effervescence and acidity of sparkling wine can add a delightful lift to mixed drinks. Let's explore some classic and contemporary sparkling wine cocktails:

Classic Sparkling Wine Cocktails

  1. Bellini

    • Ingredients: Prosecco, peach purée
    • Method: Add peach purée to a flute and top with chilled Prosecco
    • Try with: NV Matho Prosecco Brut DOC

  2. Kir Royale

    • Ingredients: Champagne, crème de cassis
    • Method: Add a splash of crème de cassis to a flute and top with Champagne
    • Try with: NV Dehours Grande Reserve Brut

  3. French 75

  4. Mimosa

Contemporary Sparkling Wine Cocktails

  1. Sparkling Negroni

    • Ingredients: Gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, Prosecco
    • Method: Stir gin, Campari, and vermouth with ice. Strain into a glass and top with Prosecco

  2. Elderflower Fizz

  3. Sparkling Rosemary Lemon

    • Ingredients: Lemon juice, rosemary syrup, sparkling wine
    • Method: Add lemon juice and rosemary syrup to a glass with ice. Top with sparkling wine and garnish with a rosemary sprig
    • Try with: 2017 Ossa Methode Traditionnelle

Tips for Making Sparkling Wine Cocktails

  1. Chill all ingredients: This helps maintain the bubbles in the sparkling wine.

  2. Use fresh juices and quality ingredients: The simplicity of many sparkling cocktails means the quality of each component is crucial.

  3. Don't overmix: Stir gently to combine ingredients without losing too much effervescence.

  4. Experiment with different styles: Try using a Blanc de Blancs for a crisp, clean flavour or a Blanc de Noirs for more body in your cocktails.

  5. Consider the sweetness: If using a very dry sparkling wine, you might need to adjust the sweetness of your cocktail.

Whether you're enjoying a classic Kir Royale or experimenting with new sparkling cocktail creations, these effervescent drinks are sure to add a touch of elegance and celebration to any occasion.

FAQs about Sparkling Wine

Sparkling wine is a fascinating subject that often raises questions. Let's dive into some of the most frequently asked questions about this effervescent beverage.

What's the difference between Champagne and sparkling wine?

Champagne is a type of sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is Champagne. The key differences are:

  • Origin: Champagne comes exclusively from the Champagne region in France
  • Grapes: Champagne uses specific grape varieties (mainly Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier)
  • Production method: Champagne must be made using the traditional method (méthode champenoise)

Other sparkling wines can be made anywhere in the world, using various grapes and production methods.

How long does sparkling wine last once opened?

Once you've popped the cork, sparkling wine's shelf life is limited:

  • With a sparkling wine stopper: 1-3 days in the fridge
  • Without a stopper: 1-2 days in the fridge

To preserve the bubbles, use a proper sparkling wine stopper and keep the bottle chilled.

What's the best temperature to serve sparkling wine?

The ideal serving temperature for sparkling wine is between 6-10°C (43-50°F). This range keeps the wine refreshing and helps maintain the bubbles. Avoid serving it too cold, as this can mute the flavours.

Can sparkling wine age?

Some sparkling wines can indeed age beautifully. High-quality Champagnes and other premium sparkling wines often improve with years of cellaring. However, most everyday sparkling wines are best enjoyed young and fresh.

What makes the sparkling wine bubbly?

The bubbles in sparkling wine are the result of a fascinating process:

  1. Carbon dioxide: The bubbles are essentially dissolved CO2 in the wine.
  2. Secondary fermentation: This CO2 is produced during a second fermentation process, which can happen:
    • In the bottle (traditional method)
    • In large tanks (Charmat method)

During this secondary fermentation, yeast consumes sugar and produces alcohol and CO2. The CO2 is trapped in the wine under pressure, creating those delightful bubbles when the bottle is opened.

Interestingly, the size and persistence of the bubbles can vary depending on factors like:

  • Production method
  • Ageing time
  • Glass cleanliness (impurities can affect bubble formation)

The bubbles in sparkling wine not only provide a pleasant fizzy sensation but also help to release the wine's aromas, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

How many glasses are in a bottle of sparkling wine?

A standard 750ml bottle of sparkling wine contains about 6 glasses. However, this can vary depending on the size of your pour. For reference:

Bottle Size Name Glasses
375ml Half Bottle 3
750ml Standard 6
1.5L Magnum 12

What's the difference between Brut and Extra Dry?

These terms refer to the sweetness level of sparkling wine:

  • Brut: Very dry, with little residual sugar
  • Extra Dry: Despite the name, slightly sweeter than Brut

Other sweetness levels include Brut Nature (bone dry), Extra Brut, Sec, and Demi-Sec (sweetest).

Can I use sparkling wine for cooking?

Absolutely! Sparkling wine can add a delightful flavour to various dishes. It's great for:

  • Deglazing pans
  • Making risotto
  • Creating light, bubbly batters
  • Adding to sauces for chicken or fish

Just remember, the bubbles will dissipate during cooking, so don't use your finest Champagne for this!

How do I choose a good sparkling wine?

Choosing a good sparkling wine depends on your taste preferences and budget. Here are some tips:

  • Consider the occasion and your budget
  • Read the label for information on sweetness level and production method
  • Ask for recommendations at your local wine shop or reach out to us
  • Don't be afraid to try lesser-known regions for great value

Is sparkling wine always white?

No, sparkling wine comes in various colours:

  • White: The most common, made from white grapes or red grapes with minimal skin contact
  • Rosé: Made by allowing some skin contact with red grapes or blending red and white wines
  • Red: Less common, but sparkling red wines do exist, like Italian Lambrusco or Australian sparkling Shiraz

Sparkling wine, with its diverse styles and rich history, continues to captivate wine lovers around the world. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there's always something new to discover in the effervescent world of sparkling wine.

Conclusion

The Enduring Allure of Sparkling Wine

As we've bubbled our way through this effervescent journey, it's clear that sparkling wine is so much more than just a celebratory tipple. From the hallowed chalk cellars of Champagne to the lush vineyards of Tasmania, sparkling wine captivates wine lovers worldwide with its diversity and complexity.

A Toast to the Future

As we look to the future, the sparkling wine industry continues to evolve:

  • Emerging regions are challenging traditional strongholds
  • Producers are embracing sustainable and organic practices
  • Innovative winemakers are experimenting with new grape varieties and techniques

These developments promise an even more exciting and diverse sparkling wine landscape in the years to come.

The Joy of Discovery

Whether you're a certified wine lover or a curious newcomer, the world of sparkling wine invites endless discovery:

  • Explore different styles, from bone-dry Brut Nature to lusciously sweet Demi-Sec
  • Experiment with food pairings beyond the classic champagne and caviar
  • Try sparkling wines from lesser-known regions for exciting new flavours and great value

The next time you hear the distinctive 'pop' of a cork or watch the mesmerising dance of bubbles in your glass, take a moment to appreciate the artistry, history, and science in your hand. From casual gatherings to life's milestone moments, sparkling wine adds a special touch to any occasion.

Filed in: Champagne, History, Sparkling, Vintage, Wine
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