By early December I can’t wait to pop a cork on some bubbly. No other drink captures the celebratory mood like a frosty, frothy wine. But with so many sparklers available these days, how do you choose? Multi-buy deals can be enticing, but my advice is to pick the sparkling wines that suit you: your parties, your food, your budget – and here’s my guide to help you do just that.
PROSECCO
The world’s most popular fizz is made in the hills of Italy’s northeast, close to Venice, from the glera grape, which brings a jasmine note and peachy lemon sherbet flavours.
Prosecco is often off-dry and relatively low in alcohol. It’s made quickly in large tanks, and it’s not aged on the yeast sediment (lees) that gives rich, toasty flavours – so don’t expect much complexity.
Basic prosecco (Prosecco DOC) is easy-going fizz that makes good party pop or a cocktail base (see right). Premium prosecco (look for Conegliano or Valdobbiadene on the label, or both) is a step or two up in quality and price, and is a treat with savoury pastries and mild cheeses.