Guide to Sparkling Wine: 6 Bottles of Bubbles from Save to Splurge

Y’all know I love a glass of bubbly – even at a casual bar, it’s my go to. I’m so excited to share this guide to sparkling wine with you for a few reasons.

First, wine can be so overwhelming. Half the time I pick what I want based on the bottle and price – probably not a good strategy. Anyone else with me in this boat?? Second, for my Chicago friends, I’m co-hosting a complimentary bubbly tasting at J9 Wine Bar in Lincoln Park!

In working with Morgan – the General Manager at J9 Wine Bar – we came up with an idea to share 6 sparkling wines at the event. But we wanted to make sure our non-Chicago friends could enjoy too! We picked two wines in each of three categories – non-champagne sparkling wine, sparkling rosé, and true champagne. One of the bottles is a budget, every-day option, the other is a special occasion bottle. Except, whoa, real champagne is expensive – so even the save is probably more than I’d spend on a quiet night in.

Here’s what Morgan has to say about our selections …

Non-Champagne Save:

Balan Millesimato Prosecco: This delicious bright sparkler massively overperforms its price point. The attention to detail, careful farming of the fruit and vintage nature of this prosecco all contribute to a very special experience.  Citrus, Field florals, Orchard fruit.

Average price: $12 / bottle

Non-Champagne Splurge:

Franciacorta Satèn: A hidden treasure from Italy, Franciacorta isn’t talked about nearly enough. But those who have tried it can’t stop.  All the luxury of premium fruit and classic Methode Champenoise wine makes this a killer hidden gem.

Average price: $44 / bottle

Sparkling Rosé Save:

Szigeti Sekt Rosé: The Szigeti brothers are sparkling specialists and it shows.  This delicious Austrian pinot noir shows the delicate, berries in the snow elegance that characterizes the best Austrian Sparkling Rosé.

Average price: $13 / bottle

Sparkling Rosé Splurge:

Argyle Brut Rosé: This delicious Oregon sparkling is every bit a prestige. Florals, Opulent fruit and a Savory complexity combine.

Average price: $41 / bottle

Champagne Save:

Duvall Leroy Brut: Massive overperformer for the price. Duvall delivers structure craft and indulgence. A perfect balance of bright citrus and creamy full-bodied charm. Bright acidity, balanced toastiness, firm minerality.

Average price: $44 / bottle

Champagne Splurge:

Pierre Peters Brut Blanc de Blanc Cuvee de Reserve: The height of refinement and style. This premier Champagne is grown, created, and bottled on the Pierre Peters estate in Champagne. The hero element of this Champagne is the use of a perpetual reserve, each vintage is created and then blended with a mix of every year since 1988. This adds a combination of vintage expression and classic house style that few can match.

Average price: $59 / bottle

I hope that gives you some ideas for your next big party – or any old night. And again, if you’re in Chicago, I hope you’ll join us Tuesday, August 28 at 6 p.m. for our little wine tasting party!