Bubbles for the Holidays
Looking for that celebratory “POP” this holiday season? You have several options.
1. The most common sparkling wine is, of course, Champagne. Though people often use “champagne” to describe sparkling wine in general, true Champagne comes from the Champagne region in France. (Word to the wise: don’t loosely throw the term “champagne” around in front of French people. I.e. make sure you are actually referring to Champagne from Champagne… and not sparkling wine from somewhere else.)
2. Prosecco. This Italian sparkler is an inexpensive alternative to traditional Champagne. (It is made using a different, less-expensive method than Champagne, which is why it is cheaper — though still fun and delicious.)
3. Cava. This Spanish bubbly is made in the same method as Champagne (method champenoise). The secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle, as opposed to the charmat method that produces Prosecco, where the secondary fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks. However, due to labeling rules and laws, Cava can’t be labeled “Champagne.” Again, that distinction is held only by sparkling wines produced in Champagne, France. Still, if you are looking to broaden your horizons, trying a Spanish Cava can be a great way to do it!
4. Domestic Sparkling Wine. The United States has no shortage of sparkling wine producers. One of the most well-known (and perhaps easiest to fine at your local store) is Korbel, from California. (Their sparkling wines are produced the same manner as the Cava and Champagne.) But wineries all over the country produce sparkling wine– using a variety of methods.
Make sure to grab a bottle of bubbly for New Years Eve — but remember that sparkling wine need not be saved for that holiday or special occasions. It can be a great drink to pair with rich foods, or just a fun bottle to open whenever. Make up a reason to celebrate and pop open something sparkling!