The right type of sparkling wine can make a difference. And there is a long list of options in the market to pick one. If you don’t know how to choose, don't worry; this guide is all about this.
If you have never explored the world of sparkling wines, the options can be overwhelming and confusing. Look into the different types of sparkling wines and why they are special.
All About Sparkling Wines
Sparkling wine is a type of “bubbly” carbonated drink. It is made through a secondary fermentation process where the bubbles are formed. The carbonation of this wine is a natural process either in the bottle (Méthode Champenoise) or in a tank (Charmat method).
Sparkling wines complement a variety of dishes. That is why having a bottle or two can level up any special event. Popular sparkling wine types include the following.
- Champagne (France)
- Prosecco (Italy)
- Cava (Spain)
Buying Sparkling Wine
When choosing sparkling wines online, your preferences and tastes must be considered. This bubbly drink has several varieties. So, take a look at these factors to consider before you make a purchase.
- Sweetness. There are four categories of sparkling wine’s sweetness levels. You must be familiar with your options based on this characteristic.
- Demi-Sec. The sweetest option and best paired with dessert.
- Extra Dry. This wine is sweet and dry.
- Brut. Mostly dry but with a bit of sweetness.
- Extra Brut. The driest sparkling wine has little or no sugar.
Variety of Grape Used. Also, consider this as it can affect the quality of the wine. Its production process will impact the sweetness and dryness. These are the most common types of grapes used for producing sparkling wines:
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Gris
- Pinot Meunier
- Pinot noir
- Sauvignon blanc
Buy Based on Your Budget. How much is your budget for a bottle of sparkling wine? These wines are sold at different prices. Most often, this is due to the production method used. It has a significant effect on the price. For example, wines produced using traditional processes are pricier than wines produced using other methods. The cheapest types are wines produced using carbonation methods.
Sparkling Wine Storage Tips
Preserve your sparkling wine by learning essential storage tips. It can extend the shelf life of the sparkling wine. Doing all these can ensure you preserve and enjoy the quality for a long time.
- Store it horizontally and in a cool, dark area.
- Keep it away from sudden temperature changes.
- The temperature of storage must be at around 45-65°F or 7-18°C.
- Keep humidity levels at around 70%.
For sure, by now, you are more confident to buy a bottle of sparkling wine. This will make it easier to decide later on. You will no longer have problems deciding which sparkling wine to serve your guests. You will know how to choose based on the factors mentioned above. You now have confidence that your sparkling wine will perfectly match your food.
