Bubbles 101

Names are important. Sparkling wine goes by many different ones based on where it is produced and the region's laws. So I personally use "BUBBLES" to describe wine that is carbonated (CO2). If I am at a restaurant, I will ask "what bubbles" do you have" I know it might sound silly but by using this term, I am signaling that I am interested in Champagne, Cava, Prosecco, basically anything with some fizz in it.

Are you confused? Keep reading.

Almost every wine region produces a sparkling version of wine, and each country uses 1 or more specific names to describe the categories. And each category has specific rules on the grapes that can be used, fermentation process, aging process, etc. But this also means that you (the consumer) can feel comfortable knowing that the wine you are drinking has met specific standards.

Still confused? Well here are the different names of sparkling...

1. Champagne (France): Renowned, traditional method; from the Champagne region using Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes.

2. Crémant (France): High-quality; traditional method from regions outside Champagne, such as in Bourgogne, Loire, or Jura.

3. Cava (Spain): Traditional-method, typically made from Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada grapes.

4. Prosecco (Italy): Popular & fruity; made from Glera grapes, usually via the Charmat/tank method.

5. Franciacorta (Italy): Prestigious; traditional method from Lombardy.

6. Asti Spumante (Italy): Sweet, aromatic; from Piedmont, Italy, made from Moscato Bianco grapes; tank method.

7. Lambrusco (Italy): Usually red in color; from Emilia-Romagna, Italy, ranging from dry to sweet; tank or traditional method.

8. Sekt (Germany/Austria): Often made with the tank method, known for being light and fruity.

9. Méthode Cap Classique/ MCC (South Africa): Premium quality; produced using the traditional method.

10. Pet-Nat (Pétillant Naturel): Made using the methode ancestrale (wine is bottled before the initial fermentation is finished, often appearing cloudy and rustic).

11. U.S. Sparkling: From anywhere in the US; tradition, tank & ancestrale methods used.

While this is a long list, in theory, there may be more categories. So back to the term "bubbles"... this one, fun, lively word might just be the easiest way to get a glass of sparkling joy, no matter what country you are in. CHEERS!