Whether you’re toasting a celebration or just love a little fizz in your glass, sparkling wine adds a festive sparkle to any occasion. But beyond the bubbles, there’s a whole world of style, technique, and taste to explore.
In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you want to know about sparkling wine—how it’s made, the different types, and what to look for when choosing your next bottle.
At its core, sparkling wine is any wine that contains bubbles of carbon dioxide, giving it its signature fizz. While Champagne might be the most famous type, sparkling wines are made all over the world—from Italy to Spain to right here in New York.
The magic behind sparkling wine lies in its second fermentation, where those delightful bubbles are born. There are several methods to achieve this, each producing a unique result:
This is how Champagne is made. The second fermentation happens in the bottle, where yeast and sugar are added to create natural carbonation. It’s labor-intensive but produces fine, persistent bubbles and complex flavors from aging on the lees (dead yeast cells).
Examples: Champagne (France), Cava (Spain), some U.S. and NY sparkling wines
Here, the second fermentation happens in a pressurized stainless steel tank, not the bottle. This method is quicker and keeps the wine bright, fresh, and fruity.
Examples: Prosecco (Italy), some American sparklings
This one’s exactly what it sounds like: CO₂ is injected into still wine—like soda. It’s not as refined, but it’s fast and budget-friendly.
Examples: Some inexpensive or entry-level sparkling wines
There’s a bubbly for every palate. Here’s a quick tour of the most popular types:
✨ Champagne – From France’s Champagne region, it’s made using the Traditional Method and typically a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Expect elegance, toastiness, and tight bubbles. Fun Fact: Only wines made within the Champagne region in France can be called “Champagne”
🍾 Prosecco – Hailing from Italy, Prosecco is light, fruity, and floral with notes of green apple and pear. It’s usually made with the Glera grape using the Charmat Method.
🥂 Cava – Spain’s answer to Champagne. Also made traditionally, but often more affordable. Dry, citrusy, and toasty.
🌊 American Sparkling Wine – Whether from California, Oregon, or New York (hello, North Fork!), American producers craft everything from méthode traditionnelle beauties to fun, fruit-forward sparklers.
🌿 Pét-Nat (Pétillant Naturel) – A natural wine darling. Made with a single fermentation, bottled before it finishes fermenting, resulting in rustic, cloudy, sometimes funky bubbles.
Not sure how to pick the perfect bubbly? Here’s a cheat sheet:
Brut Nature / Extra Brut – Bone dry
Brut – Dry (most common)
Extra Dry – Slightly sweet (confusing, we know)
Demi-Sec / Doux – Sweet to very sweet
Champagne = classic & complex
Prosecco = light & fruity
Cava = crisp & affordable
American sparklers = creative & diverse
Fine, persistent bubbles = higher quality (usually traditional method)
Who says sparkling wine is just for special occasions? Pop a bottle:
With brunch (hello, mimosas)
For date night or girls’ night in
Paired with salty snacks (fries and Champagne? Yes, please.)
With seafood, sushi, fried chicken, or creamy cheeses
Whenever life needs a little sparkle 💫
At Suhru & Lieb Vineyards, we believe sparkling wine shouldn’t just be reserved for weddings and New Year’s Eve—it’s for Tuesdays, beach picnics, and just because days too. We’re passionate about crafting sparkling wines that are bright, elegant, and full of personality, just like the North Fork itself.
A few of our current bubbly favorites includes:
Sparkling Pinot Blanc – A crisp, clean, méthode traditionnelle sparkler that offers delicate notes of green apple and citrus with fine bubbles and a refreshing finish. It’s pure elegance in a glass.
Sparkling Rosé – Fruity, festive, and full of charm, this sparkling rosé delivers hints of strawberry, watermelon, and rose petals. A must-have for brunches, celebrations, or any time you want to sip something a little extra special.
Coming Soon: Sparkling La Crescent – Get excited for our newest addition! This aromatic, cold-climate varietal is made for sparkling, with zesty citrus, floral notes, and just the right pop of acidity. Keep an eye out—this one’s going to shine.
Whether you’re stocking up for a party or looking for your new favorite bottle, there’s a Suhru & Lieb sparkler waiting to make your day a little brighter (and bubblier). Visit our tasting room or shop online to explore the collection!
Now that you know the styles, methods, and magic of sparkling wine, it’s time to try one (or a few). Whether you’re a fan of dry and elegant or fruity and fizzy, there’s a sparkling wine out there with your name on it. 🥂
