The “big three” of sparkling wines – Champagne, Cava and Prosecco – dominate sales of these products worldwide. There is no doubt that Champagne produces the finest sparkling wines of all, but at a price. In recent years, we have seen a welcome trend towards very different options, however.
There are now 238 registered wineries in the UK, almost all of which produce sparkling wine. The majority of these are made from the three classic Champagne grapes - chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier. The best sparkling wines tend to be produced in cooler climates, and England certainly has one of those. Many vineyards are planted on chalk soils, similar to those found in Champagne. One of the most successful winemakers is Irishman Dermot Sugrue. Sadly, English fizz is not cheap; it’s usually the same price or more expensive than Champagne itself.
Gusbourne Estate has 90 hectares of vines, 30 in West Sussex and 60 in Kent, planted with the classic Champagne grape varieties. This is one of the most highly regarded English producers.
South Africa, Australia and New Zealand all produce very fine sparkling wines, usually also made using the Champagne grape varieties. I have a fondness for the Jacob’s Creek sparkling wines, usually priced at about €15, but the best Australian sparkling wines come from Tasmania – again, the coolest part of that region. The South African sparkling wine below is great value for money.
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Jnwine.com has a range of very good, unusual sparkling wines from Ventiventi, a leading producer of Lambrusco (a red sparkling wine). It also stocks the Happy Selvaggio Ancestrale Lambrusco dell’Emilia – a low-sulphur pét nat (€21.50).
Producers in Limoux argue that they, and not the Champagne region, invented sparkling wine in 1531. Mitchell & Son has the excellent Crémant de Limoux Les Graimenous for €28.95.
Specially Selected Méthode Cap Classique Brut, South Africa
12%, €14.99 (less 20% until December 22nd)
Made from chardonnay and pinot noir (the classic Champagne grapes), this is great value for money. Brioche, green apples and strawberries, with a creamy texture and dry finish.
From Aldi
Lionel Boutié Pét Nat Nature Chardonnay 2024, Domaine Ricardelle de Lautrec, Vin de France, Biodynamic
12.5%, €23
Cloudy, fizzy and yeasty, with ripe pears and a lively acidity to balance the rounded finish. A fun wine.
From Whelehan’s, Loughlinstown, Co Dublin
Ventiventi Blanc de Blancs Pignoletto DOC 2020
11.5%, €30
Refined white flower aromas; yeasty brioche, tangy clean yellow fruits, with a bone-dry finish. Very attractive and distinctive sparkling wine.
From JNwine.com
Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 2016, England
12%, €80
Excellent mature sparkling wine with toasted nuts, brioche, green apples and peaches. Harmonious, with a fine minerality and lovely length. Not cheap, but as good as most Champagne at the price.
From Pinto Wines, Dublin 9; Fíon Eile, Dublin 7; 64 Wine, Glasthule, Co Dublin
