Best sparkling wine: the perfect bubbles for 2025

10 Best rated sparkling wines in 2025

Based on the critics’ rating methods discussed above, we have carefully selected the 10 best rated sparkling wines of 2025. Each recommended sparkling wine on this list has been chosen for its exceptional balance, finesse, and consistency across vintages.

What is sparkling wine and how is sparkling wine made?

There’s something irresistible about the allure of bubbles. Elegant, lively, and surprisingly versatile, they can make any moment special. But what is sparkling wine, and how is it made?

The principle is easy: the key lies in carbon dioxide, which can either be naturally produced through fermentation or added artificially. The main sparkling wine production methods include:

• Traditional method: secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle, resulting in fine bubbles and complex flavors (Champagne style).
• Charmat method: secondary fermentation takes place in pressurized tanks, producing fresh, fruity wines (like Prosecco).
• Ancestral method: the fermentation continues in the bottle, creating a rustic and authentic wine.
• Artificial carbonation: CO₂ is directly added, producing immediate bubbles.

Sparkling wines can range in color, from pale gold to deep pink, depending on the grape variety and production method. Some of the most common sparkling wine grapes include:

A crucial element to monitor in the production of sparkling wines is accidental fermentation, which can compromise the wine’s stability if not controlled.

Types of sparkling wine and production process 

From iconic Champagnes to lesser-known gems like Shiraz, the world of bubbles is full of surprises. While effervescence is the hallmark, the many types of sparkling wine are defined by more than just fizz. Key differences include:

• Body – Light and refreshing or full-bodied with depth.
• Sweetness level – Ranging from bone-dry Brut to sweet Doux.
• Production style – Traditional method, Charmat, or carbonation.

Understanding these traits makes it easier to find the right sparkling wine types for any mood, meal, or celebration—whether you’re toasting or just unwinding.

Sparkling wine by body: from light to full

Although these terms—light, medium, and full-bodied—are more often linked to still wines, they also apply to sparkling wines when describing mouthfeel, richness, and texture. For newcomers, classifying sparkling wine by body offers a simple guide to navigating everything from delicate Proseccos to richer, creamier Champagnes:

• Light bodied sparkling wine: fresh, zesty, bright acidity and fine bubbles.
• Medium bodied sparkling wine: balanced, fruity, with subtle complexity.
• Full bodied sparkling wine: rich, creamy, and structured, often with aged notes.

The table below offers examples for each style for a better understanding.

Body Type	Top Producers	Grape Varieties	Structure & Flavor
Light-bodied	Villa Jolanda, Lieb Cellars, Lamarca	Glera, Moscato Bianco, Pinot Blanc, Chenin Blanc	Crisp and refreshing with high acidity, flavors of green apple, pear, citrus, white flowers
Medium-bodied	Stella Rosa sparkling wine, Kornell, Argyle, Taittinger	Macabeo, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay,	Balanced and fruit-driven with fine mousse, notes of stone fruit, citrus, almond, and light toast
Full-bodied	Freixenet sparkling wine, Champagne Bollinger, Louis Roederer	Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier	Rich, creamy texture with persistent bubbles, notes of brioche, nuts, honey, and aged fruit

Light bodied sparkling wine

Light bodied sparkling wine is crisp and lively, with bright acidity and a delicate texture. It often shows flavors of green apple, citrus, and light floral notes, making it perfect for light meals, seafood, or casual gatherings. These wines are ideal if you want something versatile and elegant but not too intense.

Medium bodied sparkling wine

Medium bodied sparkling wine offers a harmonious mix of freshness and depth. You’ll find notes of stone fruit, citrus, and a gentle hint of toast, adding depth without overwhelming. Their smooth texture makes them always crowd-pleasing and ideal for celebrations that involve diverse menus.

Full bodied sparkling wine

Rich and creamy, with intense flavors of brioche, nuts, and ripe fruit. Their fuller texture and depth make a full bodied sparkling wine perfect for pairing with hearty dishes or celebrating special moments. These wines leave a lasting impression.

Sparkling wines by sweetness level: sweet, dry, and brut

Depending on the occasion, you might prefer a sweet wine or a drier one. Sparkling wines present 3 main sweetness levels, with some subcategories :

• Sweet (doux, demi-sec)
• Dry (semi-sec, extra dry)
• Brut (extra brut, brut nature)

The sweetness level depends on the amount of residual sugar left after fermentation, ranging from 0–3 grams for a Brut nature to over 50 grams for a Doux. Some examples are shown in the chart below.

Sweetness	Top Picks & Producers	Common Varietals
Sweet	Victoria Pink Moscato 2015 by Innocent Bystander	Moscato, Brachetto, Riesling
Dry	Valdobbiadene L’Ovest Prosecco Superiore Extra Dry by Sorelle Bronca	Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Chenin Blanc
Brut	La Grande Année Brut 2008 by Champagne Bollinger	Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier

Sweet sparkling wine: the perfect companion for dessert

Sweet sparkling wine is loved for its pleasant, aromatic flavor. It’s often made using the traditional method (Charmat), which helps bring out the fruity and floral notes of the grapes. This makes it perfect to enjoy alongside dessert.

Feeling adventurous? Try it with spicy Asian dishes—the contrast might just surprise you!

Sweet Sparkling Wine	Top Producers	Tasting Notes
Nivole Moscato d’Asti 2003	Michele Chiarlo	Intense nose of musk, black locust and orange flowers, sage and honey
Rosa Regale Brachetto d’Acqui Rose	Castello Banfi	Aromatic with hints of raspberries, strawberries and rose petals
Roscato Rosso	Cantine Roscato	Ripe blackberries and wild berries

Under rated dry sparkling wine: the #1 choice for wedding toasts

Dry sparkling wine is known for its bright acidity and delicate bubbles, delivering a clean, refreshing mouthfeel. Produced using either the Charmat or traditional method, these wines offer both versatility and balance, making them perfect for summer appetizers or fresh seafood.

Fun fact: despite Champagne holding the highest spot, there are great lesser known dry sparkling wines that taste as good (and sometimes better!). Here are some of the most popular choices for toasts worldwide, especially at weddings or other special occasions!

Dry Sparkling Wine	Top Producers	Tasting Notes
Alta Langa Extra Brut	Ettore Germano Italy	Crisp citrus, green apple, floral hints, refreshing finish
Classic Vintage Brut 2019	Iron Horse California	Green apple, lemon zest, and ripe pear
Franciacorta Anna Maria Clementi Riserva 2015	Ca’ del Bosco Italy	Ripe apple, citrus zest, and toasted bread
Mosel Riesling Brut Sekt 2019	Maximin Grunhaus Germany	Fresh and youthful, with aromas of ripe citrus fruits and dried almonds

Non alcoholic sparkling wine: sip the sparkle 

Even those who prefer to avoid alcohol can join the toast worry-free, thanks to non alcoholic sparkling wine. Made from grapes like Riesling and crafted using delicate techniques such as reverse osmosis or vacuum distillation, these wines preserve the freshness and aroma of their traditional counterparts.

Here are a few delicious options to try:

• Leitz Eins Zwei Zero by Weingut Josef Leitz
  Food pairing suggestion: Thai spring roll, grilled chicken, gratinated crostini
• Champagne Eric Rodez Extra Brut Les Genettes Chardonnay 2016
  Food pairing suggestion: herbed pork roast, cheese plate, seafood
• Deutz Blanc de Blancs Millésime 2018
  Food pairing suggestion: spaghetti with pesto, vegetable salad, shellfish

Alcohol free sparkling wine often contains a small amount of residual alcohol — be sure to check the label!

Sparkling wine food pairing: tips for matching flavors like a pro

The key to a great sparkling wine food pairing is balancing flavors: lighter sparkling wines enhance delicate dishes, while more structured bubbles stand up to richer, bolder flavors. 

Not everyone knows that sparkling wines are surprisingly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide range of foods, even some unexpected ones. 

Finding the perfect match might seem tricky, but don’t worry. Below, you’ll find easy and practical tips on the best food to pair with sparkling wine, from fresh appetizers to hearty main courses, making every bite shine with the perfect bubbly companion.

Food	Sparkling Wine	Grape Variety	Type & Structure
Seafood Appetizers, Vegetable Tempura	Franciacorta Brut – Contadi Castaldi	Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc	Dry, full bodied, citrus
Bruschetta, Fish Salads, Sushi Rolls	Rustico Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore – Nino Franco	Glera	Dry, Light bodied, fruity
Fresh Oysters, Caviar, Aged Cheese	Champagne Brut – Veuve Clicquot	Pinot Noir, Chardonnay	Dry, medium bodied, toasty notes
Cured Meats, Cold Meats, Pizza, Flatbreads	Lambrusco di Sorbara Vecchia Modena- Cleto Chiarli	Lambrusco	Slightly sweet, light-bodied, fruity
Tapas, Grilled Fish, Semi-aged Cheese	Cordon Negro Cava Brut – Freixenet	Macabeo, Xarel·lo, Parellada	Dry, medium-bodied, balanced
Summer Salads, Mild Asian Cuisine	Roederer Estate Brut	Chardonnay, Pinot Noir	Medium bodied, fresh, crisp acidity
Turkey, Duck, Grilled Salmon, Fruit-based Desserts	Brut Rosé – Schramsberg	Pinot Noir	Dry, medium bodied, fruity
Spicy Dishes, White Meats	Riesling Extra Brut Sekt – Vin Winning	Riesling	Extra Dry, light bodied, fruity

A taste of sunshine: California sparkling wine at its best

California is undoubtedly the heart of American wine. With its sunny climate and world-famous regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma County, it’s no surprise that California sparkling wine has earned global recognition. Often crafted in the traditional method using Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, these wines are celebrated for their elegance, balance, and finesse.

Fun fact: historic producers like Korbel—founded in 1882—are still allowed to label their bottles “California Champagne.”

Whether you’re exploring sparkling wine from Sonoma or looking for standout bottles from across the state, here are some top California sparkling wines to enjoy with a West Coast twist:

Region /Grapes	Top to Try	Characteristics
Napa Valley – California Chardonnay, Pinot Noir	Napa Valley Chardonnay – Robert Mondavi	Dry, elegant with balanced acidity and bright fruit flavors
North Coast – California Chardonnay	Blanc de Blancs – Schramsberg	Crisp, citrus, fine bubbles, medium body
Anderson Valley – California Pinot Noir	Brut – Roederer Estate	Elegant, apple, pear, creamy texture
Sonoma County – California Zinfandel	Wedding Cuvée – Iron Horse	Rich, berry notes, lively bubbles
Sonoma County – California Sparkling Blend	Sonoma Brut – Gloria Ferrer	Balanced, fruity, creamy mousse

Sparkling wines and champagnes: a tour through Italy’s finest bubbles

Italy is truly the birthplace of the iconic spumante, beloved and celebrated around the world. But sparkling wine from Italy goes far beyond spumante—regions like Veneto, Piedmont and Lombardy craft a wide range of bubbly using grapes such as Pinot Nero and Nebbiolo and using traditional champagne methods that elevate grapes and flavors. These wines combine deep-rooted tradition with modern finesse, offering distinctive flavors to suit every palate.

Pro tip: to fully experience the elegance of a classic Franciacorta, serve it in a tulip-shaped glass—it helps preserve both its aroma and lively bubbles.

Beyond champagne: the world of French sparkling wine

While Champagne may steal the spotlight, French sparkling wine has so much more to offer beyond its most iconic name! From Alsace to Burgundy to the Loire Valley, winemakers craft refined bubbly using grapes like Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir, and even Riesling.

One of the most beloved styles is Crémant sparkling wine, especially from Alsace, which pairs beautifully with seafood, crisp salads, or creamy cheeses.

Check out the table below for top French sparkling wine regions and what makes each one unique.

Region /Grapes	Top to Try	Wine Style
Alsace Pinot Blanc, Riesling	Domaine Schlumberger, Hugel	Light, fresh, floral, crisp acidity
Burgundy Chardonnay, Pinot Noir	Louis Bouillot, Joseph Drouhin	Elegant, medium bodied, fine bubbles
Loire Valley Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc	Domaine Huet, Langlois-Chateau	Crisp, mineral-driven, fruity
Champagne Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier	Louis Roederer, Moët & Chandon	Elegant, complex, fine bubbles, crisp acidity
Limoux Mauzac, Chardonnay	Sieur d’Arques, Antech	Soft, slightly sweet, delicate bubbles

English sparkling wine: redefining finesse

English sparkling wine has a surprisingly bold story. Once overlooked because of its cool, often gloomy climate, Britain is now making waves worldwide with its elegant bubbles. The rise of British sparkling wine started with small vineyards in southern England experimenting with classic Champagne grapes—Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier—thriving on the region’s chalky soils.

Thanks to these shared soils and shifting climate patterns, southern England now produces refined, crisp bubbles that can rival top French styles:

German sparkling wine: Sekt, the hidden gem

German sparkling wine may not be as famous as bubbles from other countries, but Sekt holds a unique charm. Made primarily from Riesling and other native grapes, Sekt German sparkling wine blends tradition with elegance, offering bright acidity and fine, delicate bubbles.

Here are our top three picks for the best German sparkling wines:

• Dr. L Sparkling Riesling by Loosen Bros
• Mosel Riesling Brut Sekt 2019 by Henkell
• Cuvee Marie-Luise Brut Blanc de Noir Sekt by Sekthaus Raumland

Popular sparkling wine varieties explained

Sparkling wine varieties encompass a wide range of styles and nuances. One major difference is the level of carbon dioxide: wines like Champagne and Franciacorta showcase fine, persistent bubbles, while other sparkling wines often feel lighter and fresher.

However, it’s not just about the bubbles—factors like the wine regions, grape variety, and production method all contribute to the unique character of each bottle. Popular types include: 

Let’s dive into some of the top sparkling wine varieties, exploring what makes each one special — and how its region adds to its character and charm.

Champagne: the timeless sparkle

Champagne is the undisputed king of sparkling wines — elegant, iconic, and steeped in tradition. But is sparkling wine Champagne? Not exactly. While every Champagne is sparkling wine, not all sparkling wine qualifies as Champagne. By law, only bottles produced in France’s Champagne region using the traditional méthode champenoise—a process refined and popularized by Dom Pérignon—can carry the name.

Here’s our team’s top selection of Champagnes to discover and enjoy:

Prosecco sparkling wine: elegance and fruity freshness

Prosecco sparkling wine is an iconic Italian wine made from Glera grapes and holds the title as the world’s most exported sparkling wine. Produced using the Charmat method, it’s known for its lively bubbles, floral aromas, and remarkable versatility.

Fun fact: Prosecco is the key ingredient in the popular Aperol Spritz cocktail!

Below, you’ll find a selection of some of the most beloved Proseccos to try.

Spumante: the most Christmassy sparkling wine

Spumante is a sparkling wine with a pressure of at least 3.5 atmospheres, delivering lively, long-lasting bubbles. Unlike many wines, it’s best enjoyed young and fresh. A beloved staple of Italian celebrations, especially Christmas, Spumante boasts a bright and versatile character.

Looking for the perfect bottle? Check out our recommendations of the best spumante brands and their structure!

A tour inside the ultimate sparkling wine collections

From the prestigious estates of Champagne to Italy’s elegant Franciacorta, top sparkling wines offer remarkable complexity and impressive aging potential.

Collectors value these wines not just for their festive charm but for their depth and exclusivity. Limited-edition vintages and small-batch cuvées have become true symbols of luxury and craftsmanship.

Here’s why sparkling wines deserve a place in your cellar:

• Rarity: limited vintage releases make some bottles highly sought-after.
• Craftsmanship: traditional methods like méthode champenoise guarantee refined quality.
• Terroir Expression: whether it’s Champagne, Franciacorta, or Crémant, these wines beautifully showcase their unique regional characters.

Fun fact: The world’s most expensive Champagne, Goût de Diamants, comes in a white gold bottle adorned with a 19-carat diamond—priced at around $1.5 million. A true collector’s treasure!

Sparkling wine serving temperature: the tips you need to know

The bottles of wine are often the life of the party. But to truly savor their charm, one key factor matters most: sparkling wine serving temperature. Serving your bubbly at the right temperature unlocks its full freshness and vibrant character.

But be careful, temperature is just the starting point! Acidity and aging potential also shape each wine’s unique profile. Combining this knowledge with an understanding of sparkling wine alcohol content helps you pick bottles that shine for every occasion.

The table below offers a handy guide to choosing and enjoying the perfect bottle every time!

Wine & ABV	Tannin / Acidity	Serving Temp	Aging Potential
Ice Imperial – Moët & Chandon -12,5%	Low tannin, medium acidity	43-46° F	2-4 years
Christophe Mittnacht Cremant d’Alsace Extra Brut – 12,5%	Low tannin, high acidity	46-50° F	3-5 years
Cava Brut Excelencia Kosher – Freixenet – 12%	Low tannin, medium acidity	41-46° F	2-5 years
Franciacorta Cuvee Saten Brut – Monogram – 12,5%	Low tannin, medium-high acidity	39-42° F	5-8 years
Prosecco DOC – La Marca – 11,2%	Low tannin, high acidity	43-47°F	1-3 years
Brut Reserve – Coates and Seely -12%	Low tannin, medium acidity	46-50°F	3-6 years
Grand Siècle No. 25 – Laurent-Perrier – 12%	Low tannin, medium acidity	50-53° F	7-12 years
J. Schram Blancs 2015 – Schramsberg Vineyard -12,4%	Low tannin, medium acidity	46-50°F	5-10 years

How to store sparkling wine?

You already know how important proper wine storage is to avoid wasting a good bottle. When it comes to sparkling wines, it’s even more crucial to protect those delicate bubbles and keep that fresh, lively character intact.

Wondering how to store your sparkling wine the right way? Here are some simple tips:

• Store it cool — Maintain a steady temperature between 45–55°F to protect both taste and effervescence.
• Keep it dark — Shield your wine from light, especially UV rays, which can degrade its aromas and character.
• Store bottles horizontally — This keeps the cork moist and ensures an airtight seal to preserve the bubbles.
• Avoid temperature fluctuations — Sudden changes can harm the wine and dry out the cork.

For opened bottles, the best way to keep them fresh is to reseal them with a specialized sparkling wine stopper that locks in the bubbles. This method helps maintain the wine’s carbonation and flavor for up to 2-3 days. Beyond that, the bubbles will start to fade, so it’s best to enjoy the wine within this timeframe.

How to choose the right sparkling wine for beginners

Exploring the diverse world of sparkling wine can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to it. To help you confidently find the perfect bottle for your taste or occasion, here are some examples of sparkling wine for beginners—no guesswork needed!

• Brut Reserve (England)
  Body: full bodied with plenty of fruit, a layered texture, and a creamy finish
  Best for: meat or mushroom-based appetizers
• Cava Brut Delicate (Spain)
  Body: light bodied, with aromas of citrus, lime, and green apple
  Best for: ideal as an aperitif or to accompany fish and savory pastries
• Prosecco (Italy)
  Body: full bodied with soft backbone, toast touch, and persistency
  Best for: it goes well with all food, from fish to white meat

Here are some helpful extra tips:

1. Start with the label: look for terms like Brut, Extra Dry, or Demi-Sec. If you’re unsure of your preference, Brut is a reliable choice—balanced, neither too sweet nor too dry.
2. Consider the alcohol content: wines around 11–12% ABV are light and easygoing, perfect for casual toasts or aperitifs. For a dinner with a bit more body, opt for 12.5% or higher.
3. Match the occasion: fresh, fruity sparkling wines are ideal for picnics or brunches, while elegant, vintage-style bottles suit romantic dinners or gifts.
4. Think about food pairings: light bubbles complement sushi, snacks, and salads, whereas crisp, dry sparkling wines balance rich cheeses and fried dishes.

These straightforward tips are just as useful for sparkling wine to buy online!

Rating sparkling wines: the judging process behind top bottles

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a great bottle to celebrate with, expert scores play a key role in choosing the best sparkling wine. But how are these top bottles selected?

Each year, renowned critics like Jancis Robinson, Tom Stevenson, and Essi Avellan assess sparkling wines using a 100-point scale, focusing on specific qualities that define this unique category:

• Origin and style – Wines are grouped by region, ensuring they’re judged within their proper context.
• Perlage – One of the main factors in rating sparkling wines is the quality and persistence of the bubbles, reflecting both the craftsmanship and the production method.
• Aroma – From fresh citrus to floral and mineral notes, the complexity and clarity of the aromas are essential for a high rating.
• Balance and structure – Wines are judged based on their harmony of acidity, body, and finish.
• Aging potential – Wines with greater depth are often rewarded for their ability to age well.