As we step into a new year, there’s no better time to celebrate the vibrant world of sparkling wines. Over the course of 2024, we’ve had the pleasure of tasting and curating a collection of effervescent gems that we adore – each offering something special for every occasion and palate.
This guide is more than a simple list; it’s an invitation to explore the diversity and versatility of sparkling wines. From bottles perfect for everyday enjoyment (because who says bubbles are only for special occasions?) to those worthy of gracing royal celebrations, we’ve gathered sparkling wines that cater to every mood and moment.
You’ll find a delightful mix, including rare orange sparklings that intrigue with their depth and character, budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on quality, and timeless labels designed to age gracefully for future celebrations. Whether you’re looking for a festive toast, a casual accompaniment to a weekday dinner, or an elegant addition to a milestone event, this guide is here to inspire your sparkling wine journey.
Raise a glass and join us in discovering the effervescence, elegance, and joy that only sparkling wines can bring. Here’s to a year filled with celebrations, both big and small, and the perfect bubbles to make every moment shine!
Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 2019 ($138): A Sparkling Gem in English Winemaking
United Kingdom | Sparkling Wine | 100% Chardonnay | 12% ABV
Few wines encapsulate the sophistication of English sparkling wine quite like Gusbourne’s Blanc de Blancs 2019. Made exclusively from 100% Chardonnay, this single-varietal masterpiece highlights the exceptional quality of fruit sourced from Gusbourne’s vineyards in Kent and West Sussex. Crafted using the méthode traditionnelle, with extended lees ageing, it’s a wine that marries tradition with the unique terroir of southern England.
In the glass, its bright golden colour and fine, persistent mousse are immediately enticing. Aromas of lemon, pink grapefruit, and orange zest lead the way on the nose, layered with green apple and the gentle fragrance of white flowers. The palate is a tapestry of honeyed citrus, ripe stone fruits, and pear, underpinned by a delicate spiciness – think ginger and cardamom – alongside notes of freshly baked pastry and toasted hazelnuts. Vibrant yet complex, the wine finishes with a lingering minerality that’s as elegant as it is memorable.
Gusbourne’s wines are no strangers to acclaim, having featured at iconic events such as the 2012 London Olympics and Buckingham Palace dinners. This legacy was further cemented when Gusbourne Brut Reserve was selected as the official sparkling wine for King Charles III’s Coronation – a fitting honour for a producer at the pinnacle of English winemaking.
Pairing: A natural partner for shellfish and seafood, it pairs beautifully with langoustines dipped in saffron mayonnaise or scallop ceviche spiked with a touch of chilli. Even vegetarian dishes like roasted cauliflower with lemon and caper dressing find a perfect companion here.
Patriarche Père & Fils Crémant de Bourgogne ($45): A Sparkling Tribute to Burgundy’s Terroir
France | Crémant | 45% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, 15% Gamay, 5% Aligoté | 12% ABV
The Patriarche Père & Fils Crémant de Bourgogne showcases the quintessential elegance of Burgundy’s sparkling wines. Crafted with precision and respect for tradition, this non-vintage Crémant is a harmonious blend of four signature Burgundy grape varieties: Chardonnay for finesse, Pinot Noir for structure, Gamay for a touch of lightness, and Aligoté for vivacious freshness.
Aged on lees for 12 months after being bottled in January following the harvest, this wine is meticulously crafted with grapes sourced from Burgundy’s renowned appellations, spanning the Yonne, Côte d’Or, and Saône-et-Loire regions. Each vineyard adheres to rigorous specifications set by Patriarche’s winemaking experts, ensuring unwavering quality in every bottle.
In the glass, the Crémant presents a pale yellow hue with golden hints, animated by a cascade of fine bubbles and a soft mousse. On the nose, it is vibrant and inviting, with aromas of yellow fruits like peach and apricot interwoven with white fruit notes, hints of freshly baked brioche, and subtle complexity. The palate offers a delightful balance of freshness and fruitiness, supported by a creamy texture and a long, satisfying finish.
Pairing: Ideal as an aperitif, the Crémant de Bourgogne also shines when paired with food. Its versatility complements white meats, lean fish, and shellfish beautifully, making it a superb choice for elegant dining or celebratory moments.
Buy Patriarche Père & Fils Crémant de Bourgogne
Champagne Henri Giraud “Perpetual Reserve 1990-2019 Brut NV ($295/$59): A Toast to Legacy at Convivial
France | Champagne | 12% ABV | 80% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay
Singapore’s first Champagne-focused bar, Convivial, is marking its first anniversary with an exclusive collaboration with Champagne Henri Giraud. The partnership features limited-edition bottles engraved with the Convivial logo, highlighting the bar’s commitment to offering distinctive and high-quality Champagnes.
Henri Giraud, renowned for its artisanal approach and collaborations with Michelin-starred establishments such as Odette, has crafted a unique cuvée for the occasion. This non-vintage Champagne is built on a perpetual reserve blend, comprising one-third wine from vintages spanning 1990 to 2019 – an homage to Convivial founder Yang’s birth year – and two-thirds from older vintages dating back to the 1950s. The result is a Champagne characterised by depth, vibrancy, and a connection to the traditions of fine winemaking.
The Champagne’s flavour profile includes orchard fruits, brioche, and a touch of spice, supported by a fine mousse and a balance of freshness and richness.
Pairing: On the palate, Champagne Henri Giraud delivers an ethereal complexity, with layers of orchard fruits, brioche, and a whisper of spice, lifted by a fine and persistent mousse. Its balance of freshness and richness makes it an exquisite pairing for celebratory toasts or intimate moments.
Try Champagne Henri Giraud at Convivial Champagne Bar.
Lumiere Sparkling Koshu Pétillant 2021 ($68) and Sparkling Orange 2021: Japan’s Sparkling Innovations
Japan | Sparkling Wine, Orange Wine | 11% ABV | 100% Koshu
Lumiere Winery, nestled in the picturesque vineyards of Yamanashi Prefecture, is redefining Japan’s role in the sparkling wine world with two exceptional creations: the Lumiere Sparkling Koshu 2021 and the Lumiere Sparkling Orange 2021. Both wines celebrate the Koshu grape, a varietal steeped in Japanese winemaking heritage, while showcasing innovative craftsmanship and a deep respect for tradition.
The Lumiere Sparkling Koshu 2021 is a masterclass in elegance. Made entirely from Koshu grapes, it undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle using the méthode champenoise and is aged on the lees for two years. The result is a wine with fine, delicate bubbles and a bouquet bursting with the invigorating aromas of yuzu and sudachi – vibrant Japanese citrus. On the palate, it offers a refreshing interplay of crisp acidity, subtle minerality, and notes of green apple and white blossom.
Pairing: Light-bodied yet structured, this sparkling Koshu shines alongside tempura, lightly spiced Asian cuisine, or fresh seafood, making it a versatile choice for refined dining or celebratory moments.
Equally captivating is the Lumiere Sparkling Orange 2021, a bold and innovative take on the Koshu grape. Employing carbonic maceration, which ferments whole grape clusters, including skins and seeds, this sparkling orange wine is rich in texture and complexity. Its effervescence carries enticing aromas of Japanese yuzu, peach, and pear, with a subtle herbaceous undertone. The palate is a symphony of bright acidity and earthy bitterness, balanced by notes of citrus zest and orchard fruits.
Pairing: Perfect with umami-rich dishes like soy-based sauces, grilled seafood, or roasted poultry, the Sparkling Orange offers a dynamic and memorable experience.
Try Lumiere Sparkling Wines at 67 Pall Mall Singapore or buy here.
Photo: Joel Lim
Penfolds Champagne Cuvée Brut NV
France | Champagne | 12% ABV | 45% Pinot Noir, 35% Pinot Meunier, 20% Chardonnay
Penfolds, renowned for its mastery of Australian winemaking, partners with Champagne Thiénot to create the Penfolds Champagne Cuvée Brut NV. This vibrant non-vintage Champagne harmoniously blends tradition with modern flair, offering a refreshing and approachable style.
The cuvée is crafted from a classic trio of Champagne grapes: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. Each variety brings its own character to the blend – Pinot Noir lends structure and depth, Pinot Meunier contributes fruit-forward vibrancy, and Chardonnay delivers elegance and finesse. Made using the traditional méthode champenoise, the wine is designed for immediate enjoyment, striking a perfect balance between freshness and complexity.
On the nose, it is bright and inviting, bursting with aromas of red apple, ripe citrus, and delicate white flowers, underpinned by a whisper of freshly baked bread. The palate is equally lively, with a fine, persistent mousse and flavours of juicy pear, lemon curd, and a touch of almond. A crisp acidity keeps the profile invigorating, leading to a clean, refreshing finish.
Pairing: This Champagne is ideal for casual yet sophisticated occasions. Its versatile profile pairs beautifully with light appetisers such as smoked salmon, soft cheeses, or fresh seafood. For a celebratory toast or an everyday indulgence, Penfolds Champagne Cuvée Brut NV offers an easy-going charm that invites you to savour the moment.
Penfolds Champagne Cuvée Brut NV is available in major supermarkets in Singapore.
Giusti Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry: A Venetian Sparkle of Elegance
Italy | Prosecco | 11.5% ABV | 100% Glera
Hailing from the hilly landscapes of Montello and the Asolo hills in Veneto, the Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry exemplifies the finesse of Italy’s premium sparkling wines. Crafted with the finest Glera grapes from estates like Aria Valentina, Abbazia, and Siena, this Prosecco benefits from red clay soils and meticulous vineyard management, using Sylvoz and Guyot training systems.
Winemaking follows a precise process: fermentation off the skins, with primary fermentation using selected yeasts at controlled temperatures, and a secondary fermentation in pressure tanks at low temperatures. The result is a wine of exceptional balance and character, with an alcohol content of 11.5% and a sugar level of 15 g/l, creating a perfect harmony of sweetness and acidity.
In the glass, it gleams pale straw yellow with greenish reflections, enlivened by a fine and persistent perlage. On the nose, it is intensely aromatic, featuring fruity notes of Golden apple and lemon, complemented by floral nuances of wisteria and acacia. The palate is fresh and well-structured, with a delicate sweetness that enhances its harmonious profile.
Pairing: Asolo Prosecco Superiore Extra Dry is a versatile companion, ideal for an aperitif yet equally delightful throughout a meal. Its balanced profile pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, making it an excellent choice for special occasions. Serve chilled at 6-8°C to fully appreciate its vibrant character, and store in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness.
Giusti Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry is imported by Aroma of Wine in Singapore, and can be bought from Vivino.
Ruinart Rosé: A Historic Blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
France | Champagne | 12.5% ABV | 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay
Ruinart Rosé, produced by France’s oldest Champagne house, is crafted from a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This cuvée is notable for its vibrant pomegranate pink colour, accented by soft orange reflections. A fine effervescence with a persistent foam adds to its visual appeal.
The aroma profile features a combination of tropical fruits and small red berries, complemented by floral notes of rose and pomegranate. These elements contribute to a layered bouquet that balances freshness with complexity.
On the palate, Ruinart Rosé presents a distinct and full-bodied character. The flavour highlights include freshly picked berries, pink grapefruit, and a subtle hint of mint. A gentle effervescence and refreshing acidity provide structure, while the finish is smooth and balanced.
Pairing: This Champagne is versatile in its pairing options, complementing a variety of dishes such as smoked salmon, duck, caviar, and oysters. Its balance of freshness and richness makes it suitable for both celebratory moments and fine dining experiences.
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