Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wine is all about creating secondary fermentation. With the right mix of yeast, sugar & wine in a closed environment like a bottle, still wines become bubbly as the carbon dioxide released by the yeast has nowhere to go. What makes a good or bad sparkling is the duration and location of the second fermentation.
In certain countries, sparkling wines are referred to by their local name or region, adding a touch of mystique and tradition to the experience. From the iconic Champagne of France to the vibrant Cava of Spain and the elegant Sekt of Germany, these top picks are beloved worldwide:
Beyond the region, the grape varietal plays a significant role in the flavour profile of sparkling wines. Pick from these popular wines made from grapes like Pinot Noir and Riesling to explore the diverse world of sparkling wine:
The world of wine is vast, with countless varietals waiting to be explored. Each offers a unique taste adventure. Here are some of the classics to tempt your palate:
Champagne Method
Champagne is a sparkling wine made using the traditional method, which is the most labour-intensive process. The second fermentation happens inside the bottle, with a minimum lees-aging (where the sediment is left in the bottle) duration. Lees are removed by sitting the bottle upside down and freezing it to force the sediment out when uncapped before a mixture of sugar, and wine is added, and the bottle is corked. This process creates richness and complexity.
Charmat Method
Charmat sparkling wine is less expensive to produce compared to Champagne. With the Charmat method, secondary fermentation happens in tanks. Fermentation stops when the winemaker cools the tank, after which the wine is filtered and bottled. This method enhances clean fruit aromatics to create easy-drinking wine, often used for Processo.
Ancestral Method
The Ancestral method of making sparkling wine is what's used today to create pet-nat. Instead of creating a secondary fermentation, the first fermentation is allowed to continue in the bottle, resulting in a cloudy, earthy, textured wine.
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What is sparkling wine?
Sparkling wine is a type of wine that contains significant levels of carbon dioxide, giving it its characteristic bubbles. This effervescence is classically achieved through a secondary fermentation process, where yeast and sugar are added to a still wine, creating carbon dioxide that becomes trapped in the bottle.
What are the disadvantages of sparkling wine?
While sparkling wine is a delightful beverage, it does have a few potential drawbacks. Its high acidity and carbonation can exacerbate acid reflux or heartburn in some individuals. Additionally, the bubbles can contribute to faster absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream, potentially leading to quicker intoxication. Hence, it's essential to enjoy sparkling wine in moderation and be mindful of its effects.
Is sparkling wine stronger than regular wine?
The alcohol content of sparkling wine can vary, but it's generally similar to that of still wines. Most sparkling wines range from 10% to 12% alcohol by volume (ABV), which is comparable to many white andred wines. However, the bubbles in sparkling wine can create a perception of increased strength, as the carbonation can speed up alcohol absorption.
Is there non-alcoholic sparkling wine?
Yes, there are delicious non-alcoholic sparkling wines available, perfect for those who want to enjoy the celebratory bubbles without the alcohol content. At BoundbyWine, we carry an extensive range ofnon-alcoholic wines, so you can enjoy all the flavour and festivities without compromise.
Is sparkling wine still alcoholic?
Yes, most sparkling wines contain alcohol. The secondary fermentation process that creates the bubbles also produces alcohol. However, the alcohol content is usually similar to that of still wines. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can order a bottle online from BoundbyWine!