Sparkling wines, which are mainly white wines that are carbonated, are truly a delight and a great way to celebrate any occasion. Sparkling wines can be made with a number of different special methods, and the carbonation in the wine that makes it “sparkle” can be the result of natural fermentation or carbon dioxide that is injected into wine through artificial methods.

There are many different types of white sparkling wines, but by far the most well-known kind, with the largest brand recognition, is Champagne. Champagne is named after both its place of geographic origin in the famous Champagne region of France as well as the method of carbonation by natural fermentation used in that region to make this delicious and classy white sparkling wine. Besides Champagne, Crémant is another famous traditional French sparkling wine which also has to meet very strict quality control criteria.

Many European countries have their own types of sparkling wine with different levels of sweetness and carbonation. Among the famous and most easily recognizable Italian sparkling wines on the global market are Asti, Trento DOC, and Franciacorta. German Sekt and Hungarian pezsgő are also terms that denote sparkling wine, while each of these cultures has their own regional grape types and methods of making sparkling wine.

In the United States, the Champagne method is particularly popular, and California, one of the premier American wine regions, produces a lot of quality white sparkling wines. There are even some exquisite red sparkling wines produced traditionally in a few countries, notably Australia and Moldova.

If you want to find out more about the intricacies of sparkling wine online, check out the EncycloWine article on sparkling wines for wine enthusiasts. To learn more about other aspects of the art of wine-making, wine tasting and pairings, and the benefits of wine to your health, follow the links above to the appropriate page!