The Rebel’s Guide to Sparkling Wine

12 Offbeat Bubblies for Every Occasion, From Brunch to Midnight Toasts, and Everything in Between

As far as I’m concerned—and I know I’m not alone here—there is no “bubbly season” any more than there is a rosé season or a wear clean underwear season. I can think of very few occasions that don’t call for bubbly, from milestones to everyday monotony and everything in between. If I could bring an elegant flute of fizz to my next mammogram, I would.

Be that as it may, I know this time of year the mere mortal wine enthusiast generally ups their bubbly consumption, associating it with the festivities of the holiday season (or the panacea for dealing with relatives on the opposite side of your political fence). In fact, around 20% of annual sparkling wine consumption in the United States takes place during the month of December. While Champagne and Prosecco are undeniably classics—certainly among the crowd who limits their fizz sipping to the holidays—I find this time of year most perfect for popping open the unusual, if for no other reason than there’s typically more people with whom to share the bottle of bubbly that, once opened, can be tough to keep bubbly for very long.

Sparkling wine is made all over the world, and for good reason. The combination of effervescence and nuanced flavor profiles is universally appealing, making it a beloved choice for both food and casual or celebratory sipping. Winemakers from every corner of the globe have tailored wine styles to reflect their regions’ unique climates, signature grapes, and traditions. Whether it’s the high-altitude vineyards of Argentina, the volcanic soils of Italy, or the cool, coastal climates of England, these diverse origins produce sparkling wines that are anything but ordinary. Each bottle tells a story of place and passion—proof that the world of bubbles is as vast and varied as wine itself.

This season, I’m making it my personal mission to introduce at least one person to one new favorite bubbly they may not have previously considered, and I encourage you to do the same. Whether it’s a funky, unfiltered sparkling rosé, a bitter-sweet Lambrusco, a value-driven house bubbly, or a bone-dry sparkler from an unexpected corner of the world, there are so many wines out there that are guaranteed conversation starters.

Here are a few to get you started.

12 Offbeat Bubblies to Try

Miguel Torres Estelado Brut Rosé Country NV , $18

From the Maule Valley in Chile, this sparkling rosé is a celebration of the historic País grape, one of the oldest varietals cultivated in the region. Miguel Torres, a family-owned winery renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, brings País into the limelight with this vibrant wine. Expect bright red berry aromas, hints of pear, and a subtle minerality, all framed by a crisp, refreshing acidity. Its playful bubbles and lively character make it perfect for toasting at casual gatherings or enjoying with appetizers like smoked salmon or goat cheese crostini. Get it HERE.

Alma Negra Brut Nature NV, $23

Founded by Ernesto Catena, a fourth-generation winemaker of Italian descent, Alma Negra is known for crafting wines with intrigue and personality. This bone-dry brut nature sparkler from Mendoza offers a sleek and savory elegance. Made from Malbec and Pinot Noir, it’s bursting with strawberry, raspberry, lime zest, and a touch of mountain herbs. Its crunchy texture and persistent mousse make it an ideal choice for brunch pairings or chic evening soirées. A rosé that beautifully embodies the adventurous spirit of Mendoza’s high-altitude vineyards. Get it HERE.

Tank Garage Winery Hella Fizz, $42

Tank Garage Winery in Calistoga, California has a reputation for edgy, offbeat wines, and Hella Fizz is no exception. This Pét-Nat oozes personality, offering tropical fruit notes layered with a zippy citrus edge. It’s a little unpolished, completely unpretentious, and absolutely perfect for backyard parties or spontaneous midweek celebrations. Its slightly funky, playful style will make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Get it HERE.

Loimer Extra Brut Reserve, $37

Austria’s Kamptal region is a hidden gem for sparkling wine, and Weingut Loimer leads the charge with this stunning Sekt. Made in the traditional method, Loimer’s Extra Brut showcases green apple, toasted brioche, and a whisper of almond. Its refined bubbles and bone-dry finish make it a versatile pairing partner for seafood platters, spicy Asian dishes, or a big bowl of buttered popcorn when you want to sneak away from your relatives for a little Netflix & chill. Get it HERE.

Valdemar Estates 2020 Sparkling Chardonnay Brut, $65

For five generations, the Valdemar Family has been crafting top quality wines in Spain and as the first non-American winery in the state of Washington. Only 50 cases of this 100% sparkling Chardonnay were made. It’s rich with pear, Meyer lemon, and a touch of toasted hazelnut thanks to one month spent in French oak barrels and 24 months aging on its lees. With a creamy mouthfeel and bright acidity, it’s as delicious with butter-poached lobster and King crab as it is sipped solo on a festive evening. Get it HERE.

Frank Family Vineyards 2019 Blanc de Blancs, $60

Frank Family Vineyards, originally founded in 1884 as Larkmead Winery, carries a rich Napa history. Current proprietors Rich and Leslie Frank have combined Hollywood glamour (Rich is is the former president of Disney Studios) with a deep respect for the vineyard’s roots to create one of Napa’s most welcoming destinations. This Blanc de Blancs, made from 100% Chardonnay, offers heady aromas of green apple, lemon curd, and warm brioche, while fine bubbles and a creamy texture deliver a luxurious experience. Perfect with Dungeness crab or triple-cream brie, this sparkling wine is a testament to Frank Family’s legacy of quality. Get it HERE.

Bouchaine 2019 Brut Rosé, $60

From Bouchaine Vineyards, the oldest continuously operating winery in Carneros with roots dating back to the 1800s, the 2019 Brut Rosé embodies winemaker Chris Kajani’s creative vision and the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship. This sparkling wine dazzles with notes of fresh strawberries, ripe raspberries, and delicate rose petals, while lively bubbles and crisp acidity create a refreshing, festive sip. Perfect for pairing with prosciutto-wrapped figs or an indulgent chocolate tart, it’s a versatile and elegant choice from a winery that continues to honor its rich Carneros heritage. Get it HERE.

VARA New Mexico Sparkling Brut, $27

Vara Winery, New Mexico’s only urban winery and distillery, delivers brilliance in a bottle with their New Mexico Sparkling. Crafted under the guidance of Laurent Gruet, who has a legacy of sparkling wine expertise in both Champagne and New Mexico, this wine is a celebration of freshness and approachability. Bright lemon zest and crisp green apple lead the way, with a lively acidity and clean finish that make it a perfect match for dishes as varied as fried chicken and ceviche. Get it HERE.

Dr. Konstantin Frank 2020 Blanc de Blanc, $40

The Finger Lakes region of New York has become a powerhouse for cool-climate wines, and Dr. Konstantin Frank leads the charge with this Blanc de Blancs, made from 100% Chardonnay harvested from estate vineyards on Keuka Lake. Crisp and elegant, it sings with notes of green apple, lemon zest, and delicate florals. Its refined mousse and vibrant acidity make it perfect for aperitifs or seafood-focused holiday meals. It’s also perfect for sipping solo while online holiday shopping. Get it HERE.

Cleto Chiarli “Vecchia Modena Nero” Lambrusco di Modena, $19

In 2023, Cleto Chiarli reimagined their acclaimed “Vigneto Cialdini” Lambrusco Grasparossa, complete with sleek black-and-gold packaging to highlight the darker, richer side of Lambrusco. Produced from single-vineyard Lambrusco di Grasparossa grapes grown in the historic Grasparossa di Castelvetro denomination, this wine is bursting with flavors of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and cocoa. Landing on the brut side of Lambrusco, its full body is balanced by vibrant acidity and a gentle sparkle, making it a perfect pairing for hearty dishes like braised short ribs or lasagna, not to mention a killer pairing for a lavish charcuterie board. Get it HERE.

Gérard Bertrand’s French Cancan Brut Nature Orange, $30

Gérard Bertrand’s French Cancan Brut Nature Orange is a sparkling wine with a twist—crafted in the orange wine style, it’s as intriguing as it is festive. Made from Grenache Blanc and Viognier, the grapes are fermented with extended skin contact, which lends the wine its striking amber hue and unique tannic structure. The result is a Brut Nature that balances a vibrant citrus character with notes of dried apricot, orange peel, and a subtle herbal undertone. With its bone-dry finish and fine bubbles, this wine is a sensory journey, perfect for adventurous drinkers and holiday tables alike. It pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables, Moroccan tagines, or aged cheeses. Get it HERE.

Sparkling Pointe Cuvée Carnaval Rosé NV, $36

Hailing from Long Island’s North Fork, Sparkling Pointe is a winery dedicated to producing traditional-method sparkling wines, making it a standout in this cool-climate region. A blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and an unexpected portion of Merlot, this bottle is anything but ordinary. Ripe strawberries and juicy cherries dance alongside a hint of blood orange and a touch of floral intrigue, while bright acidity and effervescent personality make it the perfect companion for smoked salmon brunches or even an unconventional pairing like street tacos. Get it HERE.