Type of sparkling wine:
Méthode Champenoise
Prosecco
Cava
Sekt
Crémant
Mousseaux

Countries:
France
Spain
Italy
Germany
Russia
(You can use some countries more than once)

ANSWER:
Méthode Champenoise > France
Prosecco > Italy
Cava > Spain
Sekt > Germany
Crémant > France
Mousseaux > France

With the price of Champagnes going up and up, I’ve been selecting quite a few alternatives for WU members. Yes, I still love a nice Champagne, but it’s also nice for your pocketbook when you have MANY other alternatives. The closest alternative is a Crémant from France. It’s made in the méthode Champenoise style (two fermentations and disgorgement), but it’s not from the Champagne region and may use different varietals other than Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. By French governmental decree, the areas that produce crémants are Alsace, Bordeaux, Bourgogne, Die, Jura, Limoux, and Loire. In these areas, they use the méthode champenoise with the varietals that are grown in the region.

Yes, this holiday season I will miss rich minerality and biscuit notes a nice Champagne offers. However, my pocketbook will be happier with the many alternatives that are out there.

Check out the sparkling section in the wine store.