Sparkling Wine, Sparkling Party

A scintillating soiree without a bit of bubbly? Unthinkable. Champagne is the classic aperitif, after all, and the quintessential complement to sophisticated
hors d’ouevres and small plates of party fare. Made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes, Champagne can be produced very dry (brut and extra-dry), sweet (sec and demi-sec), and very sweet (doux), providing a wide enough selection to please every party guest.

Champagne is not alone in its ability to add sparkle to a party, however. There is a world of effervescent wines out there, quite literally. They are light and fizzy like Champagne, and offer the same range of dry to sweet, but have unique characteristics that set them apart. Wine expert Mary Simpson takes us on a virtual tour to unearth some unexpected wines sure to delight and impress.

Our excursion begins, as it must, in France; the birthplace, home, and exclusive residence of Champagne. If it wasn’t produced here, a wine simply can not call itself Champagne. Crémant is the name given to effervescent wines produced elsewhere in France, and each region of France produces its own Crémant. As we travel west to the Loire Valley, we find the Domaine des Baumard winery where we discover a bright Vouvray made entirely of Chenin Blanc grapes.

Leaving France, we head to Germany where sparkling Sekt wine is made. Here, we find the Deinhard winery producing an exceptional Sekt from Riesling grapes. Next, we head south to the Piedmonte region of Italy for some sweet, fruity Prosecco, or a few bottles of Moscato d’ Asti to accompany dessert. And while we’re here in lovely Italy, we must try the more unusual sparkling red Dolcetto d’Acqui. Spain, on the other hand, is known for Freixenet, the famous Catalonian makers of Cava, and the Segura Viudas winery, which dates back to the 11th century. Lastly, an easy hop over the pond brings us to California and the land of Sparkling Wine. Here we visit the Domaine Chandon winery for a lovely blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Our tour concluded and your guests arriving soon, all that remains is to chill and serve. Nothing lends an air of festivity to an event like a glass of something bubbly. And with Champagne, Crémant, Sekt, Prosecco, Moscato, Cava and Sparkling Wine filling the flutes, this will undoubtedly be your most festive party ever.