BellaOnline Forums Food and Wine Wine Sparkling Red?

We're having a New Year's Eve party, and many of our guests aren't Champagne fans. I've heard, though, of sparkling red wines, but I don't think I've ever seen one in the store. Any thoughts on these types of wines? Any specific types that are recommended? Thanks.

Hi SWK

When I think of red sparkling wines, Australia comes to mind. They are very popular there and often made of Shiraz.

But I really doubt that someone who dislikes Champagne will like a sparkling wine just because it is red. In fact, I find that a red fizz confuses people becuase the bubbles can't be seen in the glass and they take a mouthfull and find it fizzing.

You don't say why some guests don't like Champagne. It can't be beacuse of the fizz either you wouldn't consider a red version as an alternative...

Is it because they find Champagne too dry? If so then try a sweeter white sparkler because many red fizzes are just as dry and with the tannins from the red skins can taste even tarter.

Alternatively, try a sweet red fizz like Lambrusco. That should be widely available.

Or get some still wines as well.

Peter--Good question: I don't know why they don't like Champagne! I just remember last year, during our toast, a few said, "Oh, I don't like Champagne. I'll just toast with my wine." That's no big deal, but I thought it'd be fun to try something new this year. None of them are really into sweet wines; if they're drinking white, the dry, "oakey" Chardonnays usually disappear quickly. However, maybe a Lambrusco would be interesting just for the toast this year. I'll look into it.

never tried or even heard of some of those! will definitely need to check them out. sounds interesting.