Everyone enjoys a glass of bubbly. We adore it so much that we hardly ever choose any other type of wine to commemorate life’s significant events.
There are more sorts of bubbly out there waiting for their time to sparkle, but we are all just aware of the powerhouses of sparkling wine Champagne and Prosecco.
Sparkling wine is simply the type of wine that contains dissolved carbon dioxide gas, thus creating bubbles and a fizzy quality.
There are several types of sparkling wine, each with its own unique features and production methods.
Sparkling wine has genuinely revolutionized how we create wine since it was accidentally invented by a monk named Dom Pérignon in the late 1600s (a name we’re sure you’re extremely familiar with!).
At the now-famous Hautvillers Abbey, Dom Pérignon was annoyed by the bubbles in his still-white wine and initially believed it to be a flaw… until he cracked open a bottle and tasted it.
Since then, winemakers all over the world have developed their own variations of Champagne, offering us a wide range of sparkling wine varieties, each with distinctive flavors and qualities influenced by the location and method of production.
Keep reading to discover the various popular types of sparkling wine around the world today:
1. Champagne
It is safe to say that Champagne is one of the most famous types of sparkling wine.
Champagne has always been the life of many parties. It is produced exclusively in the Champagne region of France.
It is typically made using a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes.
Champagne is known for its high acidity, fine bubbles, and complex and lovely flavors.
2. Prosecco
Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine. It is made primarily from the Glera grape.
It is produced using the Charmat method, where the secondary fermentation (which creates the bubbles) occurs in large stainless steel tanks.
Prosecco is known for its fruity and floral flavors and is often less expensive than Champagne.
3. Cava
Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine that is primarily produced in Catalonia. It is made using the traditional method, similar to the Champagne method.
The most common grape varieties used in its production are Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada. Cava typically offers a good balance of acidity and fruitiness.
Thus making it a good wine for food, Pairing, and even celebrations. It varies in style depending on your preference.
4. Sparkling Rosé
Sparkling rosé wines can be made using various grape varieties and methods, resulting in different flavors.
This wine can be made from multiple red grape varieties, with Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier being common choices.
Other grape varieties, such as Grenache, Syrah, and Malbec, are also used to create rosé sparkling wines.
They can range from dry to sweet. They often have a pink or salmon color.
These wines are known for their unique, refreshing, and fruity characteristics.
5. Moscato d’Asti
Moscato d’Asti is a sweet and sparkling white wine from the Piedmont region in northwest Italy.
It is made primarily from the Moscato Bianco grape variety, known for its floral and fruity aromas with a natural sweet taste.
Moscato d’Asti is renowned for its fruity flavors, which often include peach, apricot, orange blossom, and musk notes.
It is a light and effervescent wine with a gentle fizz, making it slightly bubbly.
Moscato d’Asti is a low-alcohol wine, typically containing around 5-6% alcohol by volume (ABV).
Its lower alcohol content makes it a popular choice for those who prefer. It is often enjoyed as a dessert wine or for sipping.
6. Lambrusco
Lambrusco is an Italian sparkling red wine made from various Lambrusco grape varieties.
It is known for its vibrant red color and fruity, slightly sweet taste.
Lambrusco can be still or sparkling, but the sparkling versions are more popular internationally.
Lambrusco varies in style and method of preparation depending on the type of grape used. It is indeed an excellent blend of sweetness.
7. Crémant
Crémant is a term used in France to refer to sparkling wines produced outside the Champagne region.
Various French parts, such as Crémant d’Alsace, Crémant de Bourgogne, and others, make their sparkling wines using traditional methods and some regional grape varieties such as pinot noir, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and so on.
In this one of the types of sparkling wine, the choice of grapes used depends on the wine and method of production.
Crémant is typically more affordable than Champagne wine but maintains high quality and profile.
8. American Sparkling Wine
In the United States, there are many producers of sparkling wine. American Sparkling Wine is often made using traditional methods or the tank method.
Some regions, like California’s Sonoma and Napa Valleys, are mainly known for their high-quality sparkling wines.
9. English Sparkling Wine
In recent years, English sparkling wine has gained international recognition and acclaim for its quality and distinctness. It is produced in vineyards across England and Wales.
English sparkling wine is typically made using the traditional method.
This method involves a second fermentation in the bottle, creating bubbles and extended aging for complexity and flavor development.
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier are the main grape varieties used in English sparkling wine production.
English sparkling wine comes in various styles, from bone-dry (Brut) to off-dry and sweet versions. The labels often indicate the sweetness level.
English sparkling wines have improved over time and have won prestigious awards and competitions, often competing favorably with Champagne.
The recognition has helped boost the reputation of English sparkling wine on the international stage.
English sparkling wine pairs well with various foods, including seafood, oysters, cheeses, and dishes featuring cream or butter sauces.
10. Sekt
Sekt is a term used to describe sparkling wine in Germany and Austria. It is made using the traditional method (Méthode Champenoise), similar to Champagne. ,
Sekt can be made from various grape varieties, both white and red. The choice of grapes depends on the style of Sekt being produced.
Typical grape varieties include Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder), and Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder).
There are several styles of Sekt, ranging from Trocken (Dry Sekt), Halbtrocken (Semi-dry Sekt), Lieblich (Semi-sweet Sekt), and so on.
Sekt can also be paired with various food, including local and international dishes.
11. Asti Spumante
Asti Spumante is a sweet sparkling wine from the Asti region in northwest Italy.
It is primarily made from the Moscato Bianco grape, often called Muscat or Moscato.
This grape variety is known for its intensely floral and fruity flavor. Asti Spumante is produced using the Charmat, the tank method.
Asti spumante is typically sweet, with varying sweetness and low alcohol levels.
The low alcohol level of this wine is its known characteristic feature, making it an easy-drinking wine.
Asti Spumante is often enjoyed as a dessert wine or as an aperitif.
Asti Spumante is also famous for celebrations and special occasions due to its sweetness, enthusiasm, and approachability.
12. South African Cap Classique
One of the many types of sparkling wine is Cap Classique. Cap Classique is a South African term for the traditional method of sparkling wine.
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have commonly used grape varieties, and these wines have gained recognition for their quality and elegance.
13. Trento DOC
Trento DOC is an Italian wine appellation located in northern Italy.
It is known for producing high-quality sparkling wines using the traditional method.
This method allows the wine to develop its bubbles and complexity over time.
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc are the primary grape varieties used to make Trento DOC wines.
Trento DOC wines also come in various styles, from dry (Brut) to extra brut, indicating varying residual sugar levels.
This allows consumers to find a Trento DOC wine that matches their taste preferences.
Many Trento DOC producers prioritize sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in their vineyards and winemaking processes.
Trento DOC sparkling wines are celebrated for their elegance, finesse, and ability to express the unique terroir. of the Trentino-Alto Adige region.
They are an excellent alternative to Champagne and are well-regarded for their quality.
14. Canadian Sparkling Wine
Canada produces high-quality sparkling wines, particularly in the Niagara region in Ontario and the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia.
They are often made using traditional methods and can be crafted from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and other grape varieties.
15. Austrian Sekt
Austria produces its sparkling wine known as Sekt. Grapes like Grüner Veltliner and Welschriesling are commonly used to create this wine.
Austrian Sekt can range from dry to sweet and is crafted using various production methods.
16. Brazilian Sparkling Wine
Brazilian wine is a lesser-known segment of the global wine industry, but it has been steadily gaining recognition for its unique characteristics.
Brazil grows a wide variety of grape types, both native and international.
The most commonly cultivated grape varieties include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Malbec.
Brazilian winemakers also produce a range of wine styles, including sparkling wines.
Sparkling wines, in particular, have gained popularity, and Brazil is known for producing quality sparkling wines using both traditional and tank methods.
17. Spanish Sparkling Wine (Vino Espumoso)
Spain also produces other sparkling wines known as Vino Espumoso.
These can be made using various grape varieties and methods, including the traditional and tank methods.
The conventional process involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, where yeast and sugar are added to create bubbles.
The wine then undergoes aging on its lees, giving it complexity and flavor.
18. Argentinian Sparkling Wine
Argentinian sparkling wine is also among the numerous types of sparkling wine. It is often referred to as “Espumante” in Spanish.
Over the years, it has gained recognition for its quality. It is also a delightful alternative to traditional sparkling wines like Champagne.
Argentinian sparkling wine is produced using the conventional method.
While Malbec is the most famous grape variety for sparkling wine production, you’ll often find Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, as they are well-suited to the traditional method and contribute to the wine’s elegance and structure.
Argentinian sparkling wine also comes in various styles. Argentinian sparkling wines are versatile and pair well with a range of foods.
They can be enjoyed alone or with seafood, light salads, and appetizers. Argentinian sparkling wine offers a unique expression.
19. Slovenian Sparkling Wine
Slovenia, particularly in the Goriska Brda and Podravje wine regions, produces high-quality sparkling wines known as Penina.
These wines are made using traditional methods and local grape varieties, which include Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
They are known for their high quality and sweet nature. They are suitable for parties and celebrations.
20. Luxembourg Crémant
Luxembourg produces Crémant, a sparkling wine made using the traditional method.
This wine can be crafted from various grape varieties, including Pinot Blanc, Riesling, and Pinot Noir.
Luxembourg’s Crémant is known for its quality and is one of its specialties.
21. New Zealand Sparkling Wine
New Zealand, especially the Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay regions, also produce some sparkling wines using traditional and tank methods.
Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are commonly used grapes, and the wines offer a fresh and crisp profile.
New Zealand sparkling wine refers to wines produced in New Zealand, a country primarily known for its high-quality still wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.
This sparkling wine production is relatively small compared to its still wine production; it has gained recognition for its quality and diversity.
New Zealand sparkling wines come in various styles and quality.
New Zealand sparkling wines can be paired with various foods, including seafood, poultry, light appetizers, and New Zealand cuisine.
22. Uruguayan Sparkling Wine
Uruguay produces sparkling wines; this is also one of the types of sparkling wine that uses the traditional method.
The country’s cool climate regions, such as Canelones and Garzón, are known for producing quality sparkling wines from Chardonnay and other grape varieties. It is a very high-quality wine that has also evolved.
23. Russian Sparkling Wine
Russia has a long history of sparkling wine production dating back to the 19th century.
Russian sparkling wines, known as “Shampanskoye,” are made in different styles, including sweet and dry.
Russian sparkling wine has a rich history and is known for its distinctive techniques and production methods.
The Russian Empire’s rulers, including Catherine the Great, were known for their love of Champagne from France.
However, due to the difficulties of importing Champagne, they sought to create their sparkling wine industry in Russia.
Russian sparkling wine is typically made from a blend of grape varieties, focusing on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier for white sparkling wines.
These grapes are used to produce both traditional sparkling wines and those following the Charmat or tank method.
24. Israeli Sparkling Wine
Israel produces sparkling wines, often using the traditional method.
The Golan Heights and Galilee regions are known for producing high-quality sparkling wines from Chardonnay and other grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and different white and red grape varieties.
Producers also experiment with indigenous grape varieties to create unique sparkling wines. Israeli sparkling wines are also produced using various styles.
While Israel is primarily known for its winemaking history dating back thousands of years and its production of still wines, its sparkling wine industry has been growing and gaining recognition.
25. Japanese Sparkling Wine
Japan, particularly the Yamanashi Prefecture, has gained recognition for its sparkling wines.
The most commonly used grape varieties for Japanese sparkling wine include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, also widely used in Champagne production.
However, some producers experiment with indigenous Japanese grape varieties like Koshu.
The Koshu grape variety is widely used, and the wines are made using traditional methods.
Japanese winemakers are known for their meticulous attention to detail, which translates into the high quality of the wines.
The cool climate in many Japanese wine regions is conducive to producing grapes with good acidity, a critical factor in sparkling wine production.
26. Chinese Sparkling Wine
Types of Sparkling wine? Chinese Sparkling Wine is a type. China’s wine industry has expanded, and sparkling wines are becoming more prevalent.
Several regions, including Ningxia and Hebei, produce sparkling wines using traditional and tank methods.
The conventional process might be strenuous, but it is worth the stress. Chinese Sparkling Wine pairs well with a variety of Chinese and international food.
27. Mexican Sparkling Wine
Mexican sparkling wine, often called “vino espresso” in Spanish, has gained recognition and popularity recently.
While it may not be as well-known as its French counterpart Champagne or Italian Prosecco, Mexico produces some excellent sparkling.
The central region in Mexico known for producing sparkling wine is the Valle de Guadalupe in Baja California.
This area benefits from a Mediterranean climate and fertile soil, making it suitable for growing wine grapes.
Mexican winemakers use a variety of grapes to make sparkling wine.
Some of the common grape varieties used include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Macabeo.
These grapes are used to create different styles of sparkling wine, from dry to sweet.
Many Mexican wineries follow the traditional method (Méthode Champenoise) of producing sparkling wine.
This method requires time and precision but can result in high-quality sparkling wine.
Also, Mexican sparkling wines can be paired with various foods, including seafood and Mexican cuisine(ceviche and tacos).
28. Tasmanian Sparkling Wine
Tasmania, an island state in Australia, has gained international acclaim for its high-quality sparkling wines.
Tasmanian sparkling wines are known for their elegance, finesse, and cool-climate characteristics.
With its moderate temperatures, Tasmania’s cool maritime climate provides ideal conditions for growing grapes in sparkling wine production.
The most common grape varieties in Tasmanian sparkling wine production include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
29. South American Pisco Sparkling Wine
Pisco is a grape-based brandy traditionally used to make cocktails. It offers a unique and aromatic sparkling experience.
Pisco is made primarily from specific grape varieties, including Quebranta, Torontel, and Italia in Peru and Muscat (Moscatel) in Chile.
These grapes are grown in vineyards in the respective countries. Pisco is made through the distillation of fermented grape juice.
The grapes are crushed, and the liquid is fermented to produce a low-alcohol wine. This wine is then distilled to create a high-proof spirit.
30. Swiss Sparkling Wine
Switzerland produces sparkling wines, often using traditional methods.
Swiss sparkling wines are among the various types made from grape varieties, including Chasselas, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.
They can also range from dry to sweet. They have unique characteristics and taste.
31. Sicilian Sparkling Wine
Sicily, Italy’s largest island, produces sparkling wines, often made using indigenous grape varieties such as Carricante, Nerello Mascalese, and Grillo for white sparkling wines, and Nerello Cappuccio and Nero d’Avola for red sparkling wines.
Most Sicilian sparkling wines are produced using the traditional method known as the méthode champenoise.
This involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle.
Some producers also use the Charmat method, which involves fermentation of the wine in large tanks before bottling.
Fermenting the wine in large tanks before bottling. Sicilian sparkling wines come in various styles, from dry to sweet, brut, and extra brut.
32. Lebanese Sparkling Wine
Lebanon, particularly the Bekaa Valley, is known for its winemaking tradition. Lebanese sparkling wines are among the various types of sparkling wine.
They are made from various grape types, both indigenous and international.
Some Lebanese wineries produce sparkling wines, often using grape varieties like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc and indigenous grapes like Obeidi and Merwah.
Lebanese sparkling wines are typically produced using the traditional method. It is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process that results in high-quality sparkling wines.
Lebanese sparkling wines come in various styles, including brut, extra brut, and possibly sweeter options.
Lebanese sparkling wines are often exported to international markets, allowing wine enthusiasts outside of Lebanon to explore these unique offerings.
33. Bulgarian Sparkling Wine
Bulgaria has a history of sparkling wine production, and it continues to produce sparkling wines made from grape varieties like Chardonnay Muscat and local varieties like Misket and Dimyat.
Bulgarian sparkling wines are produced using the traditional méthode champenoise and tank or Charmat method.
Over the years, the quality of Bulgarian sparkling wines has improved.
The country’s winemakers have tried to modernize their winemaking techniques and enhance the quality of their products.
Exploring Bulgarian sparkling wines can allow wine enthusiasts to try unique flavors and support the country’s wine producers.
34. Indian Sparkling Wine
India has a growing wine industry, and some wineries produce sparkling wines.
The Nashik region in Maharashtra is known for its sparkling wine production. Often made using Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc.
Indian sparkling wines are often made from various grapes, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chenin Blanc for white sparkling wines and Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir for rosé or red sparkling.
The production of this wine involves primary fermentation, followed by a secondary fermentation in the bottle.
This secondary fermentation creates carbon dioxide gas, which gets trapped in the bottle, resulting in effervescence.
Over the years, the quality of Indian sparkling wines has improved significantly, and they have gained domestic and international recognition.
Some Indian sparkling wine producers have won awards and accolades for their production.
Indian sparkling wines also come in various styles, including brut (dry), extra brut (very dry), and semi-sweet.
Indian sparkling wines are often enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with various foods.
They can complement Indian cuisine, seafood, light appetizers, and international dishes.
35. Ukrainian Sparkling Wine
Ukraine produces sparkling wine. Crimea and the Carpathian region are vital areas for production.
These wines are made using traditional methods and local grape varieties, including European and indigenous Ukrainian grape types.
Ukraine does have a history of making sparkling wines that date back several decades.
These types of sparkling wines are produced using various methods, including the traditional méthode champenoise. Some producers also use the tank or Charmat method.
Ukrainian sparkling wines come in a range of styles. The choice of technique depends on the producer and market demand.
Ukrainian sparkling wines have gained recognition both domestically and in some international markets.
Ukrainian sparkling wines can be paired with various foods, including seafood, appetizers, and traditional Ukrainian dishes.
36. Moldovan Sparkling Wine
Moldova is known for its sparkling wine production, often made using grape varieties like Fetească Albă, Pinot Noir, and Rară Neagră.
The country’s sparkling wines are made using the traditional method, giving them a good and reliable quality.
Moldovan wine pairs well with a lot of food, such as seafood. It is indeed a go-to wine for celebrations. It also varies in styles, such as dry, sweet, etc.
37. Georgian Sparkling Wine
Georgia, one of the oldest winemaking regions in the world, also produces sparkling wines.
The country’s traditional Qvevri winemaking methods have been adapted to create unique sparkling wines.
The wine styles also vary depending on demand in the market. Georgian wine has evolved, becoming better as the day passes by.
38. African Sparkling Wine
Some African countries, such as South Africa, Kenya, and Morocco, have emerging wine industries.
African sparkling wine refers to sparkling wines produced on the African continent.
While African countries are less commonly associated with sparkling wine production than regions like Champagne in France or Prosecco in Italy, some African wineries and regions produce sparkling wines of note.
African sparkling wines are made from a variety of grape cultivars. South Africa is the most significant player in African sparkling wine production.
South Africa uses traditional Champagne grape varieties like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and other grape varieties such as Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and even indigenous South African types.
African sparkling wines are produced using various methods, including the traditional méthode champenoise (used in Champagne production) and the tank or Charmat method (used in Prosecco production).
African sparkling wines also come in a range of styles, from dry (brut) to semi-dry (sec) and even sweet (demi-sec).
The producers of this wine aim to cater to different consumer preferences.
African sparkling wines can pair well with various foods, including seafood, poultry, salads, and South African dishes.
While African sparkling wine production may have a different long history and global recognition than its European counterparts, it is a growing industry with the potential for continued excellence.
Conclusion
There are different types of sparkling wine, and some have been listed above.
It has also been illustrated that sparkling wine production has expanded to numerous countries and regions across the globe, each contributing its distinctive flavors and styles to the world of sparkling wines.
