Sparkling wine
Mega Filter PRO
There’s no experience quite as enchanting as sparkling wine to elevate any occasion. From light and lively to deep and sophisticated, these wines offer a range of flavors and textures to suit every taste. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, searching for the perfect gift, or simply enjoying a moment of pleasure, the right bottle can make all the difference.
Sparkling Wine vs. Champagne: What Sets Them Apart
Not every bubbly wine is champagne sparkling wine. While both feature lively effervescence, only wines crafted in France’s Champagne region using specific traditional methods can bear the name. The primary distinction lies in how they are made: champagne undergoes secondary fermentation inside the bottle, a process that produces delicate, long-lasting bubbles and complex aromas. This meticulous process, referred to as the traditional method, also includes aging on the lees, which enhances depth and imparts a distinctive toasty flavor.
In contrast, many other celebratory wines, such as Prosecco, are made using the Charmat method, where fermentation occurs in large pressurized tanks. This approach enhances fresh fruit flavors and creates a lighter, more approachable style. Additionally, while champagne sparkling wine is traditionally crafted from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, other sparkling wine styles incorporate a wider variety of grapes, offering diverse taste experiences. Whether you favor the refined elegance of champagne sparkling wine or the bright, fruit-forward nature of other sparkling selections, there’s a perfect bottle for every celebration.
The Art of Production and the Sweetness Scale
The production method significantly influences the texture, aroma, and depth of a sparkling beverage. There are three primary techniques:
- Traditional method. The second fermentation takes place inside the bottle, resulting in refined bubbles and intricate aromas. This technique is used for Crémant, Champagne, and other high-quality wines.
- Charmat method. Fermentation occurs in pressurized stainless-steel tanks, which preserves fresh fruit flavors and creates a lighter, more approachable style. This method is typical for Prosecco and some Loire Valley wines.
- Ancestral method. The oldest method, where fermentation begins in the tank and finishes in the bottle without disgorging, produces slightly cloudy, naturally sparkling wines with a rustic character.
Another key factor in choosing a bubbly drink is sweetness. The scale ranges from the driest to the sweetest:
- Brut Nature – less than 3g of sugar per liter;
- Extra Brut – up to 6g of sugar per liter;
- Brut – up to 12g of sugar per liter;
- Extra Dry – 12-17g of sugar per liter;
- Dry – 17-32g of sugar per liter;
- Semi-sweet – 32-50g of sugar per liter;
- Doux/sweet – over 50g of sugar per liter.
How to Choose and What to Serve With
Selecting the perfect fizzy drink depends on the occasion, personal taste, and food pairing. Consider these factors when making a choice:
- Grape variety. Pinot Noir provides richness, Chardonnay contributes finesse and blends deliver complexity.
- Sweetness level. Dry varieties are great for appetizers, while sweet options complement desserts.
- Region. Bourgogne, Loire Valley, and Saumur each have unique characteristics.
- Purpose. A light white option suits casual gatherings, while rose selections shine on special occasions.
Pairing the right celebratory drink with food enhances both the beverage and the dish:
- Fresh oysters and seafood bring out the crisp acidity of dry styles.
- Creamy cheeses, like Brie, balance the bubbles.
- Spicy foods contrast beautifully with semi-sweet varieties.
- Fruit-based desserts match well with sweet selections.
To get the most out of your sparkling wine, serve it chilled (6-10°C) in a flute or tulip glass to preserve its sparkle and aroma. Find your perfect bottle in our online store and make any moment special!
