A Sparkling History

Did you know that winemaking monks in France actually discovered the first sparkling wines by accident? While producing still wines in cold conditions, the monks found that fermentation would often cease before the wine had been fermented to dryness, but fermentation would start back up once the weather got warmer.

The monks noticed that carbon dioxide bubbles would form in the bottled wine due to a secondary fermentation of the wines’ residual grape sugars. Initially, the bubbles were considered a nuisance – the bottles often exploded – but eventually the phenomenon led to the creation of the bubbles we love to enjoy today.

Bubbly FAQs

1. Which Sparkling wines are the best to drink?
'Best' is really a preference in taste. J Vineyards Cuvée is our most nuanced sparkling, with notes of toasted almond, dried cranberry, and ginger snap, while La Marca Prosecco showcases notes of green apple, peach and lemon and is a favorite for pairing with tapas or brunch.

2. Which Sparkling wine should I drink if I want something sweet?
If you want a sparkling wine on the sweet side, go for André Spumante. This lively and light-bodied California Sparkling wine explodes with tons of bubbles bring fruity peach and honey notes with a crisp, refreshing finish.

3. Do I need a special glass?
The flute glass is the most popular option for serving sparkling wines; its narrow shape retains the beautiful bubbles and enhances the wine’s aromas. Check out our NYE Party Tips for a way to add a touch of bling to your glasses.

5. When do I drink Sparkling wine?
No matter the season, when the moment calls for a toast, it’s a good time for sparkling wine.

Prosecco FAQs

1. What is Prosecco and how is it different from Champagne?
Prosecco is a sparkling wine just like Champagne. Champagne comes from the Champagne region of France while Prosecco hails from the Veneto region of Italy. Prosecco is typically slightly sweeter than Champagne and their tasting notes differ as well.

2. Which Prosecco wines are the best to drink?
With its delicate bubbles and citrus aromas, our personal favorite is La Marca Prosecco. If you’re a fan of Rosé, add bubbles with La Marca Prosecco Rosé, and for a softer, creamier texture, try La Marca Luminore Prosecco Superiore.

3. Is Prosecco sweet?
Prosecco has a tantalizing hint of sweetness that comes from notes of green apple, juicy pear, and honeysuckle. If you’re looking for a dry Prosecco, try Brut.

4. Can I cook with Prosecco?
Like any white wine, you can cook with Prosecco. Have a bottle that’s lost its bubbles? Perfect! When heated, sparkling wines will lose their bubbles anyhow, so put that bottle of flat Prosecco to good use. Try using Prosecco in richer dishes, like creamy risotto and pasta sauces.

5. Do I need a special glass?
The flute glass is the most popular option for serving Prosecco wines; its narrow shape retains the beautiful bubbles and enhances the wine’s aromas.

6. When do I drink Prosecco?
Prosecco is our brunch time go-to. It’s lively effervescence shines in mimosas and Bellinis and pairs with brunch favorites like eggs Benedict, chorizo chilaquiles, and chicken and waffles.