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Although Champagne is the most famous of all sparkling wines, there are also many other sparkling wines worth discovering ! For example, you can explore Crémants from Alsace, Loire, Jura, and Burgundy, as well as the delightful bubbles of Vouvray and the Prosecco from our dear Italian neighbors.Let's take a quick tour of introduction !

How are Crémants and Vouvray made?

Crémants and sparkling Vouvray are crafted using the traditional method, which is the same process used for Champagnes! This century-old method involves vinifying a still wine (without bubbles) and then bottling it with a dose of sugar and yeast called “liqueur de tirage.” The yeast then consumes the added sugar and transforms it into alcohol, releasing CO2 in the process, which is trapped in the bottles : this is the birth of effervescence.

During this stage, the bottles are left to age in the cellar (aging on racks) for a period ranging from at least 9 months to several years.After this stage, the deposit of dead yeast (lees) remaining at the bottom of the bottles is then removed. Next, a blend of wine and sugar called the "liqueur d'expédition" (or dosage liqueur) is added, giving the sparkling wine its final style: Brut Nature, Extra Brut, Brut, Sec, Demi-sec, Sec, or Doux.

Nevertheless, there are indeed some differences between Crémants and Champagnes, particularly in terms of grape varieties or minimum aging period. In fact, while in Champagne the only grape varieties Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay account for more than 99% of the wines produced, other varieties are permitted in other regions of France.

Thus, in Alsace, the grape varieties used for making crémants are Pinot Blanc,  Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and also Pinot Auxerrois. You can find some of these in the delicious crémant from Domaine Boehler.

In Burgundy, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir make up the majority of production, although  Gamay can also be used in rosé crémants.

In the Loire, Chenin, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pineau d’Aunis, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay are the main varieties used.It is the latter that notably allows for the creation of the beautiful cuvée from the Plou & Fils estate. Nevertheless, in the Vouvray AOC, only Chenin is permitted for the production of local sparkling wines, such as the outstanding Vouvray Brut from the François and Julien Pinon estate.

In the Jura region, the grape varieties Poulsard, Trousseau, Pinot Noir, Savagnin and Chardonnay are the chosen ones.

Finally, while the aging on lees (the resting period during which the effervescence is created) in Champagne lasts for a minimum of 15 months, it is only 9 months for crémants and 12 months for Vouvray.

How is Prosecco made?

Prosecco is a sparkling wine mainly produced in the northeast of Italy (Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions). Unlike Crémant and Champagne, Prosecco is made using the Charmat method, a less expensive and faster process than the traditional method, in which the second fermentation (prise de mousse) takes place in a closed tank rather than in the bottle. This process gives the Italian wine its light, fruity, and approachable character, making it the star of our aperitifs, just like the Prosecco Extra Dry Sacchetto.

The only grape variety used to produce these Italian bubbles is  Glera. Moreover, Proseccos are regularly higher in dosage than our crémants and sparkling wines. Thus, the Extra Dry designation (equivalent to Demi-Sec – ranging from 12g/L to 17g/L of sugar) is the most sought-after, while in France, it is actually Brut (0g/L to 12g/L of sugar) that is the most produced type of wine !

Serving sparkling wines at the table: which dishes to pair them with?

Sparkling wines are not reserved solely for the aperitif ! Of course, a Champagne Blanc de Blancs Brut or a Crémant de Bourgogne will work wonders as a meal opener, but why stop there?! Our bubbles can indeed accompany an entire meal, bringing freshness and lightness to your dishes.

Seafood and shellfish pair perfectly, for example, with a Champagne or a Crémant d'Alsace Brut. They also highlight the briny freshness of oysters and langoustines.

For fish and light dishes, a Crémant de Loire brut or a sparkling white wine from Jura can enhance a scallop carpaccio or a prawn salad.

If you choose white meats or poultry, a rosé Champagne or a Crémant de Bourgogne rosé will be excellent choices.

When it comes to cheese, sparkling wines are also too often underestimated, even though an organic Crémant d’Alsace can, for example, work wonders with an aged Comté or a creamy Brie !

Finally, for dessert, a demi-sec Champagne or a luscious sparkling wine made from Muscat will elevate a fruit tart or a pavlova.

How to properly taste a sparkling wine?

Good service makes all the difference in fully enjoying sparkling wines. The ideal temperature for these wines is often between 6 and 8°C. To achieve this, place your bottle in the refrigerator a few hours beforehand. For more complex and aromatically rich sparkling wines, a few degrees higher (serving between 8-10°C) can be beneficial.

Opening should also be done gently. Loosen the wire cage while firmly holding the cork, slightly tilt the bottle, and gently rotate it on itself to avoid a sudden release of gas.For serving, choose a tulip flute with a slight opening or a classic wine glass rather than a coupe to concentrate the aromas and preserve the bubbles.

Tasting a sparkling wine is about engaging all your senses. Start by observing its golden hue and the finesse of the stream of bubbles. Listen to the gentle fizz of the effervescence, then inhale its aromas of fruit, brioche, and almonds. On the palate, let the bubbles dance on your tongue and enjoy the wine’s freshness and liveliness.

Whether you choose a Crémant de Bourgogne, a brut Champagne, or a sparkling wine from Languedoc-Roussillon, the most important thing is to enjoy the tasting—and above all, to share it in good company!

Which sparkling wine for which occasion?

Sparkling wines can turn any occasion into a celebration. Whether it's a champagne to mark a special moment or a prosecco for a relaxed aperitif, there is something for every taste !

Here are a few suggestions to help you choose the perfect sparkling wine for any occasion.

Friendly aperitif: Prosecco Extra Dry or Crémant d'Alsace

For a pleasant aperitif with friends or family, you need some light and fruity bubbles. Prosecco Extra Dry is ideal for this. This Italian sparkling wine, less acidic than Champagne and very refreshing, is perfect for relaxing moments. If you prefer something a bit more French, choose a Crémant d'Alsace brut. The region offers bubbles with a lively and elegant character, and moreover, they often come at very attractive prices.

Finally, why not try a Crémant de Bourgogne white or a Crémant de Loire during your aperitif ?

For special occasions: Champagne (vintage)

For a special occasion such as a birthday or a special dinner, champagne is a must. Whether you choose a classic champagne or a vintage, France’s finest sparkling wine will delight you with its fine bubbles and exceptional elegance… it is simply the star wine for festive occasions ! Yes, the price is a bit higher compared to crémants and other sparkling wines like Vouvray… but for a memorable moment, it’s an investment worth making!

Wedding or Reception: A Wide Selection

If you are organizing a wedding or a large reception, everything is possible to enhance your event: from refined champagne to the festive bubbles of Crémant de Loire, including a sparkling Vouvray or other equally elegant sparkling wines.

Crémant de Loire is indeed an excellent option: affordable, with fine bubbles and beautiful aromatic complexity, it pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of dishes and appeals to a broad audience. A clever solution to impress your guests without breaking the budget.

And why not also try a Crémant de Bourgogne Rosé to add a touch of color and originality? Chic and festive, it offers a refreshing alternative to the classic while remaining accessible.

Whatever your preferences, there is certainly a perfect sparkling wine for your event!

Brunch or dessert: Demi-sec Champagne or natural sparkling wine

A brunch or a dessert? Here, opt for sweeter sparkling wines, such as a demi-sec Champagne or an Extra Dry Prosecco.

If you prefer organic, biodynamic, or natural wines, a Pet’ Nat’ (natural sparkling wine) focused on indulgence can also be an excellent option.These are simple but fresh, light, and good wines (when well selected) and very trendy!

Learn how to read a sparkling wine label

Choosing a sparkling wine is a bit like deciphering a coded message. Unlike still wines, champagnes, crémants, and other sparkling wines feature specific mentions on their bottles that can sometimes be confusing. Here is the essential information you need to know to decode a label and select the cuvée that suits you. Sugar content: Brut, Extra-Brut, Sec… Which one to choose? The residual sugar level plays a crucial role in the taste of the wine.

Here are the main categories:

• Brut Nature (0-3 g/L): ultra-dry, with no added sugar.
• Extra-Brut (0-6 g/L): very dry, but with a slight roundness.
• Brut (0-12 g/L): the most common version, offering a good balance between freshness and sweetness.
• Extra-Sec (12-17 g/L): slightly sweeter, with a touch of sweetness.
• Sec (17-32 g/L): a gentle sweet presence, ideal for certain pairings.
• Demi-Sec (32-50 g/L): perfect to accompany desserts.
• Doux (+50 g/L): very sweet, for those who prefer richer, sweeter wines.

If you prefer a dry wine, choose a brut nature or an extra-brut.If you prefer more sweetness, a demi-sec or a sparkling sweet wine will be your best options.

Vintage or Non-Vintage?

If a year is specified on your bottle of sparkling wine, it indicates the harvest year. In this case, your sparkling wine is a vintage.

For a champagne, this often highlights a remarkable year that the winemaker wanted to showcase. In fact, the vast majority of champagnes are non-vintage (several harvest years are often blended in your bottle).

For a Crémant from the Loire or Burgundy, vintages are more frequently indicated.

In any case, the vintage effect (notably the impact of the climate during the year) is then more pronounced during tasting.

Alcohol content and bottle size

Don't forget to also take a look at the alcohol content (generally between 10% and 13% for a sparkling wine) as well as the bottle size (75 cl, magnum, etc.). On our website La Cave Éclairée, you will also find useful information such as the unit price or sorting filters by ascending price, perfect for comparing offers !

Bubbles for every taste and budget

As you can see, sparkling wines offer a range of flavors and are suitable for all occasions and budgets. Crémant de Bourgogne, Crémant d’Alsace brut, Crémant de Loire brut, Champagne blanc de noirs or Brut Nature, Prosecco or even organic sparkling wine—there is a bottle for every occasion.

If you are looking for a sparkling white wine with fruity notes, choose an organic Crémant d’Alsace or a Crémant du Jura. For more complex bubbles, a white Crémant de Bourgogne or a house Brut Champagne will be perfect. And for excellent value for money, why not turn to a Crémant de Loire brut or a Prosecco Extra Dry?

Whether you prefer a Crémant d’Alsace rosé, a Crémant de Bourgogne rosé, or even a Champagne blanc de noirs, La Cave Éclairée offers you a carefully curated selection of quality sparkling wines. Feel free to consult our sparkling reviews and recommendations to find the cuvée that meets your expectations!

Finally, for a more affordable unit price, opt for a Crémant de Bourgogne Brut or a Crémant d’Alsace Brut. If you are looking for a sparkling wine produced using environmentally friendly practices, an organic Crémant d’Alsace will surely win you over.

You now have all the keys in hand to choose the bubbles that suit your desires. Whether it’s a Crémant de Loire Brut, a Champagne Blanc de Noirs, an organic Crémant d’Alsace, or a Prosecco Extra Dry, sparkling wines cater to all preferences. Discover our suggestions and enjoy an attractive price.

And if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact La Cave Éclairée; we will be delighted to offer you personalized advice!

See you soon !