There are so many delicious sparkling wines outside of champagne. Sparkling wine is often associated with celebrating but can truly always be appreciated and enjoyed. In honor of National Bubbly month and just in time for the summer, below is a round-up of ten of my fellow contributors’ favorite and delicious sparkling wines and champagne. Because who really needs a reason? Arranged by region and varying in price point, see below for a sampling of the best bubbles for 2021.
1. J Vineyards Cuvee 20 Brut NV
Region: Russian River Valley
Flavors: Citrus, pear, and almonds
Pairs Well With: Shellfish and goat cheese
2. Iron Horse Classic Vintage Brut
Region: Russian River Valley
Flavors: Red apple, orange, and hazelnut
Pairs Well With: Pasta and Pommes Frites
3. Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro, Fattoria Moretto – NV
Region: Emilia Romagna, Italy
Flavors: Dark berries and herbs
Pairs Well With: Gruyere, Manchego, and blue cheese
4. Cava Bertha Brut Nature Reserva
Region: Sant Sadurni d’Anoia Spain
Flavors: Yeast and fresh fruit
Pairs Well With: Starters, fish, and white meat
5. Sumarroca Brut Nature Gran Reserva Cava
Region: Côte Méditerranéenne Spain
Flavors: Pastries and fresh fruit
Pairs Well With: Shellfish and cured meat
6. Bohigas Brut Reserva Cava
Region: Barcelona Spain
Flavors: White fruit, white flowers, cinnamon, and biscuits
Pairs Well With: Fish, rice, and dried fruit
7. Nino Franco Prosecco Rustico
Region: Valdobbiadene – the Venetian region of Italy
Flavors: Creamy and tart, with pear and pineapple
Pairs Well With: Delicate dishes and hors d’oeuvres, lo mein, fish and chips
8. Champagne Aubry Brut
Region: Champagne France
Flavors: Fruity notes of white peach and raspberry
Pairs Well With: Seafood
9. Champagne Billecart Salmon Brut Reserve
Region: Champagne France
Flavors: Floral bouquets
Pairs Well With: Perfect as an aperitif and pairs well with a wide variety
10. Underwood Rose Bubbles
Region: Oregon
Flavors: Pink grapefruit, watermelon, and strawberry
Pairs Well With: Fried and spicy dishes
