Collection: Other categories of sparkling wine

• Catalonia, Spain: Known for its versatile and lively cava.
• Rheingau, Germany: Produces high-quality sparkling wine in various styles.
• Loire Valley, France: Home to the elegant Crémant de Loire.
• Western Cape, South Africa: Famous for its high-quality Cap Classique.
• Douro Valley, Portugal: Known for fresh and versatile Espumante.
• California, USA: Produces a wide range of sparkling wines in various styles.

There are many different types of sparkling wine, each with its own unique flavour profile. Among the most popular are:

• Cava (Spain): A versatile sparkling wine produced using the traditional method.
• Sekt (Germany): A lively sparkling wine available in various styles, from dry to sweet.
• Crémant (France): A high-quality sparkling wine from various regions of France, produced using the traditional method.
• Cap Classique (South Africa): A high-quality sparkling wine produced using the traditional method.
• Espumante (Portugal): A sparkling wine known for its freshness and versatility.
• Sparkling Wine (USA): A sparkling wine produced in many styles and flavours, often using the traditional method.

The history of sparkling wine dates back to the 17th century, when sparkling wines were first produced in Champagne. Since then, the production of sparkling wine has spread worldwide. Each region has developed its own traditions and techniques to produce unique sparkling wines full of character. Today, sparkling wines are an indispensable part of many festivals and celebrations.

Sparkling wines can also be used in cooking to add a special touch to dishes. Try using sparkling wine in sauces for fish dishes, in desserts such as a Crémant sorbet, or as a base for cocktails such as the classic Bellini or Mimosa.

Sparkling wines should be served well chilled at a temperature of around 6–8°C. Use tall, slender glasses (flutes) to bring out the fine bubbles and aromas to their best advantage. Sparkling wines pair beautifully with a wide variety of dishes, from light starters and seafood to desserts.

1. Taste profile: Consider whether you prefer dry, semi-dry or sweet sparkling wines.
2. Occasion: Choose a sparkling wine that suits the occasion – whether for a festive reception, as an aperitif or with dessert.
3. Region: Discover the variety of sparkling wines from different countries and regions.

• Celebrations: Sparkling wines are ideal for special occasions and celebrations.
• Variety: There is a wide range of sparkling wines with different flavour profiles.
• Refreshment: The effervescent texture makes sparkling wines refreshing and invigorating.

Sparkling wines offer a unique blend of festivity, variety and refreshment. These wines reflect the terroir and the passion of winemakers around the world. Whether as an accompaniment to a special occasion, as a gift or simply to enjoy – sparkling wines offer the perfect choice for every occasion.

Sparkling wines are characterised by their effervescent carbonation, which gives them their typical “fizz”. They are produced through a second fermentation, during which carbon dioxide is generated in the bottle or tank. This fermentation can take place using the traditional method (Méthode Champenoise) or the Charmat method. Sparkling wines come in various styles, from dry to sweet, and offer a wide range of aromas and flavours.

There are two main methods of producing sparkling wine: the traditional method and the Charmat method.

• Traditional method: This method, also known as the Méthode Champenoise, involves a second fermentation in the bottle. After the first fermentation, a mixture of sugar and yeast (liqueur de tirage) is added, which triggers the second fermentation in the bottle and produces carbon dioxide. The wine then matures on the lees for several months or years before being disgorged and corked.
• Charmat method: With this method, the second fermentation takes place in large stainless steel tanks rather than in the bottle. This method is quicker and more cost-effective and is often used for lighter, fruitier sparkling wines.