Sparkling Wine
A broad wine category defined by bubbles, covering styles from very dry and crisp to fruitier or sweeter expressions.
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Understanding Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wine includes many regions, grapes and production methods. Champagne is one specific protected regional category; not every sparkling wine is Champagne.
What to notice
Notice bubble texture, acidity, sweetness level, fruit character and any bread-like or ageing-related aromas.
Food context
Bubbles and acidity make many sparkling wines flexible with salty foods, appetisers and celebratory meals.
Related styles
Cabernet SauvignonA widely planted red grape often associated with dark-fruit flavours, noticeable tannin and a structured finish.Pinot NoirA red grape commonly associated with red-fruit aroma, freshness and a lighter colour or body than many powerful red styles.ChardonnayA versatile white grape that can range from crisp and citrus-led to rich, creamy and oak-influenced.Sauvignon BlancAn aromatic white grape often recognised by bright acidity and citrus, herbal or tropical-fruit character.