About Sparkling Wines

Sparkling wine has effervescence - bubbles- that are the result of a secondary fermentation. This fermentation can take place in the bottle itself or in a tank, after which it is then bottled.

Sparkling wines are produced in many countries around the world; the most famous examples are from Champagne. The method used to create Champagne is known as the classic method outside this region and is used to produce bubblies such as Cava in Spain, Franciacorta and Alta Langa in Italy as well as the finest sparkling wines in countries such as the USA, New Zealand and Australia.

Sparkling wines with their bubbles are celebratory wines to be sure, but they are also among the finest food wines produced, as they can accompany a wide variety of foods. Sparkling wines range from extremely dry to very sweet and are produced in several versions from Blanc de Blancs (only white grapes) to Rosé, which have a copper, salmon or pink color.

Top Picks for Sparkling Wines

G.H. Mumm NV RSRV Rosé Foujita Brut Champagne
96 points
$85
Well balanced between fruit and baked flavors with complex acidity; a stunning, exceptional example of rosé Champagne that lingers on long after you are finished.
G.H. Mumm NV Grand Cordon Brut Champagne
95 points
$45
This is a wonderful everyday Champagne that balances acid with dosage and mild autolysis with citrus fruits, orchard fruits, bramble berries and delicate floral notes.
G.H. Mumm NV Grand Cordon Brut Rosé Champagne
95 points
$55
Simply delicious, and loaded with vibrant red fruit and balanced with refreshing citrus; a prudent host should have one of these chilled at all times for any unexpected occasion that might arise.
Perrier-Jouët NV Grand Brut Champagne
95 points
$64
A beautiful Champagne blend leaning into the red berry flavors that will make this a delicious aperitif as well as an easy companion for a wide range of dinner courses.
Champagne Lallier NV Grand Rosé Brut Champagne
95 points
$80
Delicious red berries, fresh ripe citrus notes and soft bubbles; bring this for summer afternoons on the boat.
Perrier-Jouët 2014 Belle Époque Brut Champagne
95 points
$189
Rich and well balanced with a rounded palate and excellent balance of red and white fruits; impress your bubbly loving friends.
Champagne Lallier NV Ouvrage Grand Cru Extra Brut Champagne
94 points
$159
Ripe orchard fruit, particularly pear, with pronounced rich notes of freshly baked bread and cheese; an excellent Champagne that has seen extended lees contact and epitomizes the taste of luxury.
Baron Aime NV Brut Rose Pinot Noir
94 points
$20
Best Buy
Lively and bright for a perfect apéritif yet with just enough richness and body to carry you in seamlessly to the first course.
94 points $20 Best Buy
Le Chemin Du Roi NV  Champagne
94 points
$299
A rich and powerfully delicious Rose Champagne that hits all the high notes.
Le Chemin Du Roi NV Brut Rosé Champagne
94 points
$299
A rich and powerfully delicious Rose Champagne that hits all the high notes.
Awards: 2022 Best Champagne Brut Rose