Sparkling wine
Sparkling Wines in the Best Spanish Stylel
Spain has a long history in wine production, thus having a large number of wineries spread throughout its geography. One of the wines with the greatest tradition and consumption in our country are Sparkling wines, especially during the Christmas season.
To make this type of wine it is necessary for the liquid to go through a second fermentation process inside the bottle. This is achieved by adding sugar and bottling the wine before it finishes fermenting. Although there are other methods to obtain sparkling wine, this is considered the highest quality.
What are sparkling wines?
Sparkling wines, also known as sparkling or sparkling wines, are those that contain dissolved carbon dioxide, which gives them their characteristic effervescence and bubbly texture. This peculiarity occurs thanks to a second fermentation, which can occur inside the bottle itself or in large closed tanks.
Differences with still wines
Unlike still wines, where alcoholic fermentation is completed in open tanks or tanks, sparkling wines undergo an additional fermentation process, since either in the bottle or in large capacity tanks. During this second fermentation, sugar and yeast are added to the still wine base, resulting in the production of carbon dioxide, a gas that is trapped within the liquid when the bottle or tank is sealed.
Methods for the production of sparkling wines
There are different methods for making sparkling wines. The Champanoiseor traditional method is the most recognized and is also considered the technique by which a superior quality wine is obtained. However, it has been shown that some of the other methods can also achieve optimal results. What are the methods of making sparkling wines? We describe them below:
Champanoise Method
Commonly known as the traditional method, it refers to the technique in which the wine goes through a second fermentation process inside the bottle in which it is sold.
Transfer method
In this method there is also a second fermentation of the liquid inside the bottle, however it is not within the same packaging in which the wine will be marketed. In this method, the wine ferments inside a bottle, then goes to a tank where it is filtered and finally transferred again to another bottle in which it will be sold.
Granvas Method
It is also known as the Charmat or closed tank method. It is used for the production of cheap wines in bulk, which does not mean that they are inferior wines. Here the wine undergoes a second fermentation in large tanks at a higher temperature than in previous methods. Finally it is filtered and bottled for sale.
Russian continuous method
This technique is also used for the production of bulk wines. It is very similar to the previous one since it also includes a set of interconnected tanks. Yeast and sugar are continuously added to the first tank to start fermentation. Once completed it is passed to the others for filtering process
Gasification
Modern gasification processes are capable of imitating the properties of wines obtained in other processes such as those described above. The gasification method consists of injecting carbon dioxide into the drink, constituting the most economical way to add bubbles to the wine.
Types of sparkling wines
The world of sparkling wines is wide and diverse, offering a wide variety of styles and flavors to satisfy all tastes. Among the best known types we find:
- Champagne: Coming from the Champagne region in France, champagne is considered the king of sparkling wines for its quality, complexity and prestige. It is made mainly with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes, following a strict traditional method.
- Cava: Originally from Spain, cava is a high-quality sparkling wine that is produced in different regions of the country, the most recognized being Penedés. It is made with various grape varieties, among which Macabeo, Parellada, Xarel·lo and Chardonnay stand out.
- Prosecco: This Italian sparkling wine comes from the Veneto region and is characterized by its freshness and lightness. It is made mainly from the Glera grape and usually offers a dry or extra dry style.
- Moscato: Known for its sweetness and floral aroma, Moscato is a sparkling wine made from the Moscato grape in different regions of the world, such as Italy, France and the United States. United.
Pairing and consumption
Sparkling wines are versatile and gastronomic, making them excellent companions for a wide variety of occasions and meals.
- Appetizers: Dry or brut sparkling wines are ideal for whetting the appetite and accompanying light appetizers, fresh cheeses, seafood and salads.
- Main dishes: Rosé or fuller-bodied sparkling wines can accompany main dishes such as white meats, fish, risottos and pastas.
- Desserts: Sweet sparkling wines or Moscato are perfect for pairing fruity desserts, cakes, pastries and creams.
Tips to enjoy to the fullest
- Temperature: Serve sparkling wines chilled, between 6°C and 8°C.
- Glasses: Use flute or tulip glasses to concentrate the bubbles and enhance the aromas of the wine.
- Occasion: Sparkling wines are ideal for celebrating special moments, toasting achievements or simply enjoying a good time with friends and family.
At Bodegas de Andalucía, we are passionate about Andalusian wine and we are proud to share the wealth with you winery of Andalusia. Our team of experts will provide you with personalized advice so that you can find the Sparkling Wines that best suit your tastes and preferences.
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