FIZZ AROUND THE WORLD
Outside of these recognised styles of sparkling wines, there’s even more to discover.
How about festive fizz with a difference to surprise guests and make for a lively talking point? Sparkling red wines are a true gem and there’s no better starting point than Jacob’s Creek Sparkling Shiraz, South Australia. Available in Waitrose (£11), it’s rich and refreshing as an aperitif and intriguingly fabulous with turkey and vegetables.
Another fabulous must-try wine is Graham Beck Brut Non-Vintage, Western Cape, South Africa. Winner of The Sustainability Trophy at the Glass of Bubbly Awards, this top wine is made using the ‘Cap Classique’ method (the South African name for the ‘traditional’ Champagne method) using Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. It’s fresh, but creamy and full of limey citrussy flavours alongside a brioche richness. Available in Majestic (£16.99, or £11.99 for a mixed case of six), this wine is fantastic on its own, or with festive cheesy nibbles.
If you’re keen on English sparkling wine, Nyetimber’s 1086 Prestige Cuvées are benchmark examples. Crafted by award-winning winemaker Cherie Spriggs, they’re produced in very limited quantities using grapes exclusively from West Sussex. Characterised by their superb balance, acidity, length and texture, both of these wines are delicious on their own, but also with food. Nyetimber 1086 Prestige Cuvée 2010 pairs nicely with seafood starters, while Nyetimber 1086 Rosé Prestige Cuvée 2010 is great with salmon, crab, and duck. These wines are available from Nyetimber and Majestic (£135 - £150 and £145 - £175 respectively).