Raise a Glass: Sparkling Wine for Summer Celebrations and Entertaining 2023
From elegant dinner parties to casual backyard barbecues, or lounging by the water, sparkling wine adds a touch of sophistication and festivity to any gathering...
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and what better way to celebrate than with a glass of sparkling wine? From elegant dinner parties to casual backyard barbecues, or lounging by the water, sparkling wine adds a touch of sophistication and festivity to any gathering. Here are some tips for selecting, serving, and enjoying sparkling wine this summer.
Types of Sparkling Wine
When it comes to sparkling wine, there are a variety of options to choose from. Champagne, the most famous type of sparkling wine, is made exclusively in the Champagne region of France using a specific production method. Prosecco, on the other hand, hails from Italy and is known for its bright, fruity flavors. Cava, from Spain, tends to be dry with a slightly nutty taste. And for those looking for something a little different, there are also sparkling rosés and wines made from alternative grape varieties.
Perfect Pairings
Sparkling wine is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairing. I’ve often referred to it as the Little Black Dress (LBD) of wines as it is a fabulous pairing for the most elegant menus just as well as it for hamburgers and pizza. Champagne is a classic match for oysters and other seafood, while Prosecco pairs well with light appetizers and fruity desserts. Cava is a great choice for spicy foods or dishes with a smoky flavor. And for those who enjoy cheese and charcuterie boards, a sparkling rosé can be the perfect complement.
Things to Know Before Popping The Cork
When it comes to serving sparkling wine, it's important to keep a few things in mind. Always chill the bottle for at least 30 minutes before serving, and hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle when opening to prevent the cork from flying across the room. For those who prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding a splash of fruit juice, a sprinkle of super fine sugar, or a little liqueur such as Chambord or St. Germain to the glass. And most importantly, don't forget to raise a glass and toast to the occasion!
Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to start off the summer with a glass of sparkling wine. By selecting the right bubble for your event or mood, pairing it with delicious food, and serving it properly, you can elevate any gathering into a special occasion.
Cheers to the season of celebration and toasting to life's special moments!
Sparkling Destinations
Hoyt Family Vineyards
Paso Robles
The Tasting Lounge at Wente Vineyards
Livermore
Campos Family Vineyards
Byron
Highway 12 Winery
Sonoma
Heritage Oak Winery
Acampo
Mounts Family Winery
Healdsburg
Soda Rock Winery
Healdsburg
Three Fat Guys Wines
Sonoma
De La Montanya Winery
Healdsburg
Robledo Family Winery
Sonoma
Rebel Vintners
Napa
Nichelini Family Winery
St. Helena
Schramsberg Vineyards
Calistoga
Bennett Lane Winery
Calistoga
Texas Wine Collective
Fredericksburg
Greenhill Winery & Vineyards
Middleburg
Patterson Cellars - Seattle
Seattle
13th Vineyard by CADE
Angwin
Upcoming Events
Long Shadows Vintners - Woodinville Tasting Room
Grand Opening Party
Woodinville, WA
Sunday, June 4, 2023, 12:00 PM
Patterson Cellars
Wine & Oysters Event - Seattle- Saturday
Seattle, WA
Saturday, June 17, 2023, 12:00 PM
Messina Hof Estate Winery and Resort
Cooking Party with the Chef - Summer BBQ
Bryan, TX
Sunday, June 18, 2023, 1:00 PM
Messina Hof Grapevine Winery
Red, White, and Sparkling Charcuterie Class
Grapevine, TX
Friday, June 30, 2023, 6:00 PM
Vezer Family Vineyard
VEZERSTOCK Wine & Live Music Series - Mustache Harbor
Fairfield, CA
Sunday, July 2, 2023, 6:00 PM
Jonathan Edwards Winery
Mat Kearney - The Acoustic Trio Tour with Opener Marc Scibilia
North Stonington, CT
Sunday, July 16, 2023, 6:00 PM
Messina Hof Grapevine Winery
Summer Sippin' Wine Cocktail Class
Grapevine, TX
Friday, July 21, 2023, 6:30 PM
Vezer Family Vineyard
VEZERSTOCK Wine & Live Music Series - Neon Velvet
Fairfield, CA
Saturday, July 22, 2023, 6:30 PM
Vezer Family Vineyard
VEZERSTOCK Wine & Live Music Series - Shania Twain Tribute
Fairfield, CA
Saturday, August 12, 2023, 5:00 PM
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