Summer party season is in full swing, and PA's Sam Wylie-Harris has rounded up seven standout bottles of sparkling wine, from new vintage releases and award-winning labels to firm favourites. Prices range from £8.50 to £55, offering options for every budget and occasion.
Budget-Friendly Bubbles Under £9
The Waitrose Blueprint Prosecco DOC, Italy, at £8.50, is described as a trusty party pleaser to have on standby. This soft, fruity prosecco features blossomy aromas, ripe apple and pear fruit, refreshing acidity, and a bright finish. Sam Wylie-Harris suggests pairing it with peach puree for a classic bellini.
For those seeking an affordable alternative to champagne, the Specially Selected Crémant de Loire, France, at £8.99 from Aldi, offers light, stylish sparkling wine from the Loire Valley. It presents gentle hints of lemon sherbet, quince, and honey, with a soft creamy mousse and fresh finish.
Award-Winning Champagne at Lidl
The Champagne Bissinger & Co Premier Cru, France, at £24.99 from Lidl, was crowned World's Best Champagne at the World Drinks Awards 2026. The judging panel commended its 'elegant and delicate notes of peach and sherbet lemon with a touch of elderflower,' describing it as 'elegantly complex without being loud.' With brioche, honey, and citrus leading the palate, it pairs well with fresh berry desserts.
Mid-Range Sparklers for Celebrations
The Segura Viudas Brut Vintage 2023 Premium Cava, Spain, at £12.50 from Tesco, comes from Catalunya. It offers bright freshness, a slightly creamy texture, well-balanced fruit, hints of citrus, a delicate yeasty note, and a crisp finish. Its luxe-looking label makes it a keenly priced option for birthdays and celebrations.
Chapel Down Classic NV Brut, England, usually £31 but reduced to £23 until August 18 at Waitrose, is from one of England's leading producers. This award-winning brut features enticing notes of apple and citrus, refreshing acidity, and a lasting, crisp finish.
Premium Picks for Connoisseurs
The Cuvée Prestige Ca' del Bosco Franciacorta DOCG, Italy, at £46 from Hedonism, hails from Lombardy in northern Italy. Robert Parker awarded these bubbles a 91-point score, described as 'outstanding, exceptional wine with great complexity and character.' It is aromatic with hints of stone fruits, pastry, and lemon blossom, and features a long, persistent finish.
Finally, the Gusbourne Rosé 2020, England, at £55 from Gusbourne or £45 for members, celebrates the winery's 20th harvest this year. This vintage rosé offers a nose of ripe raspberries, wild strawberries, and hints of orange groves, with hedgerow fruits, biscuity notes, strawberry, apple pie, soft spice, and berry freshness on the long finish.
Prices were correct at the time of publishing.
