As New Year’s Eve and the celebration season sparkle into view, we hosted an unforgettable sparkling wine tasting at the wine bar. We’re thrilled to share the highlights, pairings, and inspiration with you here—a toast to learning, enjoying, and celebrating together! All these wines (and more) are waiting for you at Mayer Family Wines, ready to make your celebrations even more special.
This guide takes you on a flavorful journey through the art of bubbly wines, their production methods, and the magic of pairing them with the perfect cheese. By the end, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for sparkling wines, understand the difference between Brut and Extra Dry, and maybe even discover a new favorite pairing to share with friends.
How Sparkling Wine Gets Its Bubbles
Before we dive into tasting notes and pairings, let’s explore how sparkling wine gets its signature effervescence. There are two main methods of production, each lending its own unique characteristics:
Traditional Method
Also known as méthode traditionnelle or méthode champenoise, this is the gold standard for sparkling wine production—think elegance and finesse. Here’s how it works:
- After the base wine is made, sugar and yeast are added to the bottle to trigger a second fermentation inside the bottle.
- This fermentation creates carbon dioxide, resulting in fine, persistent bubbles.
- The wine is aged on the lees (dead yeast cells), developing rich, toasty flavors like brioche and almonds.
- After aging, the lees are removed (riddling and disgorging), and a touch of sugar (dosage) is added to balance the flavors.
Wines made using this method, like Champagne, Cava, and Paula Kornell Brut, have smaller, refined bubbles and layers of complexity.
Charmat Method
Known as the tank method, this approach is quicker and highlights fresh, fruity flavors:
- The second fermentation occurs in a large stainless-steel tank rather than in the bottle.
- The wine is filtered and bottled under pressure to preserve its vibrant bubbles.
Prosecco is a prime example, with lively, larger bubbles and a bright, approachable style that’s perfect for casual celebrations.
Sweetness Levels in Sparkling Wine
Understanding sweetness levels can enhance your appreciation of sparkling wines. Here’s a quick guide:
- Brut Nature (0–3 g/L): Bone dry with no added sugar.
- Extra Brut (0–6 g/L): Very dry with just a hint of sweetness.
- Brut (0–12 g/L): Dry and crisp, the most popular style.
- Extra Dry (12–17 g/L): Slightly sweeter, often seen in Prosecco.
- Sec (17–32 g/L): Noticeably sweet yet balanced.
- Demi-Sec (32–50 g/L): Medium sweet, ideal for desserts.
- Doux (50+ g/L): Lusciously sweet, perfect for a decadent treat.
Sparkling Wine and Cheese Pairings
1. Drusian Valdobbiadene Extra Dry Prosecco + Burrata with Blood Orange Grappa Jam
Region: From the Veneto region of northern Italy, this Prosecco hails from the UNESCO World Heritage hills of Valdobbiadene, where grapes are hand-harvested.
Tasting Notes: Bright and refreshing, with aromas of pear, white peach, and honeysuckle. The gentle fizz dances on the palate.
Cheese Pairing: Burrata’s creamy richness pairs beautifully with the Prosecco’s crisp acidity. The blood orange grappa jam adds a sweet, citrusy twist that mirrors the wine’s fruity notes. Together, it’s like a mini vacation to Italy!
2. Paula Kornell Brut Sparkling Wine + Sonoma Herbed Goat Cheese
Region: From Napa Valley, California, where warm days and cool nights create the perfect conditions for sparkling wine.
Tasting Notes: Notes of baked apple, lemon zest, and brioche shine through fine, persistent bubbles, balancing bright fruit and toasty complexity.
Cheese Pairing: The tangy creaminess goat cheese beautifully complements the wine’s acidity, while the fresh herbs enhance the sparkling wine’s subtle floral and citrus notes. The effervescence cleanses the palate, leaving a refreshing finish and inviting another bite and sip.
3. Naveran Cava + Manchego
Region: Produced in the Penedès region of Spain near Barcelona, this Cava showcases the Mediterranean’s ideal growing conditions for Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada grapes.
Tasting Notes: Crisp and dry with notes of green apple, citrus, and almond. The fine bubbles bring a festive energy.
Cheese Pairing: Manchego’s nutty, buttery flavors complement the Cava’s zesty acidity. This duo captures the essence of Spanish gastronomy.
4. Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée 1785 Champagne + French Brie
Region: Champagne, France, the birthplace of sparkling wine, known for its chalky soils and cool climate.
Tasting Notes: Rich and creamy with flavors of citrus, green apple, and toasted brioche. Fine bubbles and extended lees aging create a luxurious experience.
Cheese Pairing: French Brie’s buttery richness meets its match with the Champagne’s crisp bubbles and toasty notes. Together, they deliver an indulgent and balanced pairing.
Now you’re equipped with the knowledge to explore the world of sparkling wines and their perfect cheese pairings. From the refined elegance of traditional-method wines to the fresh, fruity charm of Prosecco, there’s a bubbly for every occasion. Pair them with the right cheese, and you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven. Cheers to sparkling moments and delicious discoveries!