Compare an English sparkler, a sparkling wine from the Loire, a Prosecco and a Cava.
Almost every wine area produces sparkling wine but champagne is generally recognised as the benchmark. Our preference is definitely for champagne, but over the years we have found sparkling wines that we also enjoy. With this tasting pack you'll compare four other common styles of sparkling wine, enabling you to decide the style you enjoy best.
This tasting pack comprises four half bottles:
- an English sparkling wine that is made from the same grape varieties and in the same way as Champagne
- a Brut from the Loire river valley made from Chenin Blanc in the same way as Champagne
- a sparkling wine from Italy
- a sparkling wine from Spain
Ideal for a virtual wine tasting - see here for more details.
Champagne especially, but sparkling wines in general, are better if they have been opened and allowed to breathe for 20 to 30 minutes before drinking. We didn’t believe it when we were first advised to do this but it really works. Just open the bottle and leave it in the fridge; it will not lose its bubbles but will taste much better when it has had a chance to breathe. Also, do not allow it to be too cold, as that masks the flavours.