It can be hard to stay positive during lockdown. All of your favourite bars and restaurants are closed, and you need to stay home all the time. Luckily there’s some healing power in a glass (or two) of good bubbly. Spritzy and refreshing, there’s something celebratory about it.
We’re not the only ones that think so. A recent study into which wines UK consumers search for online found that sparkling wine is the country’s favourite. An overwhelming 49% of people look for it, and Italian versions come out on top. In fact, Italian Prosecco is 40% more popular than French Champagne and Italian Muscat is twice as popular as Spanish Cava!
So, to cheer you up during lockdown, we’re here to recommend four fabulous sparkling wines. They can be ordered online and safely delivered to your front door, so there’s no need join the queue at your local supermarket – or limit yourself to three bottles. From Prosecco to Muscat, we’ve something to please every taste (and most budgets).
Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry Millesimato 2018, Decanter Gold Medal
Italian Prosecco is the UK’s favourite bubbly. Bright, clean and easy to drink, there’s no wonder it’s our first recommendation. This particular one will impress you with its pronounced aromas of acacia flowers, apple, lemon and grapefruit. On the palate it is dry, with a lightweight body and strong flavour intensity with emerging fruit balanced by a long finish.
Valsellera Rosè, Nebbiolo , Italy, 2019
An ideal choice for people who prefer unusual drinks, this sparkling rosé is made from Nebbiolo – a grape more commonly known for Barolo and Barbaresco. It is made using the “Rosé de Saignée” method, with short maceration and skin contact. It has a fruity aroma with raspberry and wild strawberry notes. Spicy hints of toasted bread and vanilla brighten up the balanced finish, making it the perfect match for savoury appetizers.
Volo Di Farfalle, Moscato d’Asti DOCG, Muscat Sparkling Wine, James Suckling, 90 points (2016 vintage)
This is a beautiful example of one of Italy’s most iconic sparkling wines. Volo Di Farfalle means “flight of the butterfly” which we think is an apt name for this light, sweet and fresh bubbly. It has pronounced aromas of mountain flowers, wild herbs and yellow apple. It’s also low in alcohol, making it our top choice for afternoons in the garden.
Lo Sparviere Brut Cuvée n.7 NV, Franciacorta DOCG, Mundus Vini 2017 Silver Medal
Made in a similar way to champagne, and using mostly the same grapes, Franciacorta is an excellent choice if you’re feeling lavish. This floral sparkling wine has aromas of ripe peach, honey, toasted bread and almonds. The palate is tangy and fresh, with a balanced flavour and high acidity. Easy-drinking, elegant and satisfying, each sip offers delicate effervescence.
We hope you find these recommendations useful, and that you remember to sip these wines in moderation. After all, a positive attitude helps to reduce stress – and for many of us a glass of sparkling wine in the evening makes it easier to sail through these hard times. Cheers to that!