Sparkling Wine

Our pick of all things bubbly. We have a huge range encompassing English sparkling wine, Champagne, Prosecco, Cremants, Pet Nats and new world sparklers. Although we stock plenty of options for celebrations, we aim to have a range that is also accessible for the fun things in life like fish and chips with bottle of affordable bubbly…(It’s good fun, trust us)

Sparkling Wine Types

The process of creating sparkling wine involves trapping carbon dioxide in the bottle, which is responsible for the bubbles.

There are various styles of sparkling wine produced around the world, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most notable styles:

1. Champagne: Champagne is the most famous and prestigious style of sparkling wine, traditionally produced in the Champagne region of France. It is made using the méthode champenoise, where the secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle. Champagne can be either non-vintage (blend of multiple years) or vintage (made from grapes harvested in a single year). It is known for its elegance, complexity, and aging potential.
2. Prosecco: Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine primarily produced in the Veneto region. It is made using the Charmat method, where the secondary fermentation takes place in large stainless steel tanks. Prosecco is typically lighter, fruitier, and more affordable compared to Champagne. It is often enjoyed young and is known for its crisp and aromatic profile.
3. Cava: Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine produced mainly in the Catalonia region. It is made using the traditional method, similar to Champagne, but with different grape varieties such as Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada. Cava tends to be drier and more acidic than Prosecco, with flavours ranging from citrus to apple and almond.
4. Crémant: Crémant is a term used for French sparkling wines made outside the Champagne region using the traditional method. Each region has its own specific appellation, such as Crémant d’Alsace, Crémant de Bourgogne, and Crémant de Loire. Crémant wines offer excellent value and quality, often showcasing regional characteristics and grape varieties.
5. Sekt: Sekt is the term used for German sparkling wine. It can be made using various methods, including the traditional method and the Charmat method. Sekt wines range in style from dry to sweet, with varying levels of effervescence. Some high-quality German Sekts can rival Champagne in terms of complexity and finesse.
6. English Sparkling Wine: English sparkling wines are known for their fine bubbles, creamy mousse, and delicate yet persistent effervescence. They often display notes of citrus, green apple, pear, and sometimes red berry fruits. As with Champagne, some English sparkling wines are produced as vintage cuvées, highlighting the characteristics of a specific year, while others are non-vintage blends that ensure consistency across different vintages.

These are just a few examples of sparkling wine styles, but there are many more produced around the world. Each style has its own characteristics and unique production methods, making sparkling wine a diverse and exciting category of wines to explore.