Sparkling wines have a place in every drinker’s heart. They feel celebratory. Bubbly (mainly from the bubbles). Lively. They’re for raising a toast or mingling with at a “do”. In the past, non-alcoholic sparkling wines tended to be rather sugary imitations of their alcoholic counterparts.
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, toasting with friends or enjoying a quiet evening, these five non-alcoholic sparkling wines are worth a place in your flute.
1. Wölffer Estate Spring In a Bottle
Wölffer Estate Spring In a Bottle sparkling rosé is crafted from a blend of Pinot Noir, Merlot, Saint Laurent, and Dornfelder grapes. On the palate, the wine delivers a refreshing medley of green pear, peach, and lemon, creating a well-balanced and pleasant drinking experience. There’s a slight minerality that rounds out the fruitiness, adding a touch of sophistication. If I had to compare it to something, I’d say its flavour profile is not too far off a light Pinot Grigio – crisp, fruity, and slightly dry. The balance between fruit-forward flavours and subtle acidity is well executed.
2. Steinbock Sparkling Riesling
Steinbock Sparkling Riesling is crafted by Weingut Dr. Fischer. It’s a German winery nestled in the Mosel Valley. The flavour profile of is – fortunately – undeniably Riesling. You initially get flavours of green apple, citrus and ripe pear, which are followed by an undercurrent of peach and honey. That minerality one would expect makes an appearance. The mid-palate introduces a soft sweetness that enhances the fruit. I would happily serve this non-alcoholic sparking Riesling alongside any dish involving melted cheese. I mean, a glass of this beside a raclette or fondue? Absolute heaven. Plus, like traditional Rieslings, it would pair well with fish dishes, particularly cerviche, I reckon, as well as smoked ham and sausages.
3. Barton & Guestier Sparkling
On the palate, Barton & Guestier Sparkling displays typical Muscat notes straight off the bat. So, it is on the sweet side, but still manages to be crisp and clean. The initial impression is dominated by green apple and lemon, with a subtle touch of pear behind them. These zesty flavours are balanced by a slight sweetness that adds roundness to the wine, but as I say it’s not overpowering or cloying. Served alongside some hors d’oeuvres, perhaps featuring some with goat’s cheese, it would hold its end up well.
4. Oddbird Spumante Prosecco
This Scandinavian brand is doing good things in the NA space. Oddbird Spumante Prosecco is made with grapes sourced from Italy and the wine apparently follows traditional fermentation techniques before being de-alcoholised. The brand also seeks to make their wines as sustainable as possible. On the palate, Oddbird Spumante Prosecco delivers crisp and refreshing flavours. Green apple, lemon and pear dominate the forefront, with softer notes of white peach adding sweetness. The wine’s bright acidity ensures that these flavours remain balanced and are not cloying. There’s a pleasing minerality that elevates the wine beyond a simple fruit-forward profile.
5. Buonafide Wines 0.0 Sparkling Italian Bianco
In the glass, Buonafide Wines 0.0 Sparkling Italian Bianco presents a pleasant straw-yellow colour, reminiscent of a bright summer day in a vineyard. On the palate, green apple is front and centre, with citrus tones like lemon and lime coming through in tandem. The initial tartness on the tongue is refreshing and gives the wine a lively edge, which I really enjoy. It’s a pleasant and refreshing taste, particularly if you enjoy a brighter, fruit-driven profile. It pairs best with lighter fare. Think fresh salads with citrus dressings, simple seafood dishes (grilled rather than fried to keep things light), and white meats, especially chicken.
Non-alcoholic sparkling wines can give you a lift
Non-alcoholic sparkling wines have come a long way in delivering flavour, aroma and complexity. So here’s to sophisticated sipping, without the alcohol.
Image credit: Mads Eneqvist