When it comes to sparkling wine, Champagne often steals the spotlight. But there’s a whole world of bubbly waiting to be explored beyond the borders of France’s most famous region. From Italy to Spain, California to South Africa, each country brings its own character, flavors, and traditions to sparkling wine. If you’re ready to expand your horizons and discover new bubbles, here’s a guide to some of the best sparkling wines from around the world.
1. Prosecco (Italy)
Prosecco, hailing from the Veneto region of Italy, is one of the world’s most beloved sparkling wines. Made primarily from the Glera grape and produced using the Charmat method (fermented in large tanks rather than in individual bottles), Prosecco is known for its light, fruity, and approachable style.
• Taste: Prosecco is usually bright and refreshing, with notes of green apple, pear, and sometimes a hint of floral or citrus. The bubbles are typically frothy and lively.
• Perfect Pairing: Prosecco is fantastic with light appetizers, salads, and brunch dishes. It’s also the perfect base for cocktails like the Bellini and the Aperol Spritz.
2. Cava (Spain)
Spain’s answer to Champagne, Cava is made using the traditional method (just like Champagne) but with different grape varieties, typically Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada. Most Cava is produced in Catalonia, especially in the Penedès region, and it offers excellent quality for the price.
• Taste: Cava often has a crisp acidity and flavors of green apple, citrus, and a touch of almond or brioche from the aging process.
• Perfect Pairing: Cava’s versatility makes it great with tapas, seafood, and fried foods. It’s also a fun pairing for popcorn or salty snacks—perfect for a relaxed evening in!
3. Franciacorta (Italy)
Franciacorta is Italy’s premium traditional-method sparkling wine, made in the Lombardy region. Like Champagne, Franciacorta is aged on the lees (spent yeast cells) for an extended period, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. It’s often made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc grapes.
• Taste: Expect a smooth, creamy texture with notes of ripe fruit, toast, and a touch of hazelnut or almond. Franciacorta tends to be fuller-bodied than Prosecco.
• Perfect Pairing: This elegant sparkling wine pairs well with seafood, risottos, and roasted chicken. It’s perfect for a more sophisticated meal or special occasion.
4. Sekt (Germany and Austria)
Sekt is Germany and Austria’s take on sparkling wine, typically made from Riesling or other aromatic grapes. While styles vary, you’ll find both high-quality traditional-method Sekts as well as lighter, fruitier versions made with the Charmat method.
• Taste: Sekt made from Riesling tends to be floral, with flavors of peach, green apple, and citrus. Traditional-method Sekt is more complex, with finer bubbles and a touch of minerality.
• Perfect Pairing: Try Sekt with sausages, spicy dishes, or even Asian cuisine. The bright acidity and fruity flavors make it a versatile choice for a range of foods.
5. Cap Classique (South Africa)
Méthode Cap Classique, or MCC, is South Africa’s traditional-method sparkling wine, made with the same techniques as Champagne. Typically crafted from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, MCC has gained a reputation for high quality and exceptional value.
• Taste: Cap Classique often features flavors of citrus, apple, and brioche, with a creamy texture and refreshing finish.
• Perfect Pairing: MCC pairs well with seafood, sushi, and even spicy dishes, thanks to its bright acidity and freshness.
6. American Sparkling Wine (California)
California produces some fantastic sparkling wines, especially in regions like Napa Valley, Sonoma, and Mendocino. Many producers use the traditional method, and some are even established by well-known Champagne houses, like Domaine Carneros (owned by Taittinger) and Schramsberg.
• Taste: California sparkling wines vary widely, but you’ll often find ripe fruit flavors like apple, pear, and sometimes tropical notes, along with a creamy, smooth texture.
• Perfect Pairing: American sparkling wine is versatile and pairs beautifully with everything from charcuterie boards to burgers and barbecue. It’s a great choice for an all-American celebration!
7. English Sparkling Wine (United Kingdom)
English sparkling wine has quickly gained a reputation for quality and finesse, with some even comparing it to Champagne. The cool climate and chalky soils in southern England create ideal conditions for growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, the same grapes used in Champagne.
• Taste: English sparkling wine is typically crisp and vibrant, with flavors of citrus, green apple, and a minerally edge.
• Perfect Pairing: Try it with fish and chips, smoked salmon, or cheese. It’s a great option for those who enjoy the elegance of Champagne but want to explore something new.
8. Australian Sparkling Wine (Tasmania)
Australia’s island of Tasmania is home to some exceptional sparkling wines, often made with the traditional method. Thanks to the cool climate, Tasmanian sparkling wine has a fresh, lively character with a wonderful balance of fruit and acidity.
• Taste: Expect flavors of green apple, lemon zest, and a hint of brioche, with fine bubbles and a clean, refreshing finish.
• Perfect Pairing: Tasmanian sparkling wine pairs well with oysters, grilled prawns, and creamy cheeses—perfect for a light yet elegant meal.
9. Sparkling Wines from Other French Regions (Crémant)
While Champagne is the most famous, France also produces Crémant, a sparkling wine made with the traditional method in regions like Alsace, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley. Crémant offers an affordable, high-quality alternative to Champagne, with unique regional flavors.
• Taste: Each Crémant has its own character, but you’ll often find flavors of citrus, orchard fruit, and a hint of yeastiness. Crémant is typically lighter than Champagne but still elegant.
• Perfect Pairing: Pair Crémant with cheeses, light appetizers, or brunch dishes. It’s versatile and works for everything from casual meals to celebratory toasts.
The Beauty of Exploring Sparkling Wines Beyond Champagne
While Champagne is a timeless classic, the world of sparkling wine offers endless options, each with its own unique story and style. Whether you’re sipping a refreshing Prosecco, a rich Franciacorta, or a crisp Cap Classique, these sparkling wines allow you to explore new flavors, regions, and winemaking traditions. So next time you’re in the mood for bubbles, consider going beyond Champagne and discovering the sparkling wines from around the globe. Who knows—you might just find a new favorite!
Cheers to sparkling wine adventures around the world!