The history of sparkling wine is a tale that intertwines innovation, elegance, and celebration. Dating back to the late 16th century, a natural effervescence was often seen as an unpredictable and sometimes unwanted result of the winemaking process. It wasn’t until the legendary Benedictine monk Dom Pérignon refined the techniques of producing sparkling wine in the early 17th century that it began to gain recognition as a deliberate and desirable style. The fascination with sparkling wines burgeoned as the courts of Europe embraced them, associating the effervescent elixir with luxury and merriment. The delicate dance of bubbles rising through a glass of sparkling wine became symbolic of special occasions and jubilant toasts. Over the centuries, this fascination has only deepened, as sparkling wines, including Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava, continue to captivate our palates and symbolize moments of joy and festivity, making every sip a celebration of both craftsmanship and life’s finest moments. Take this fun 5-question quiz to see how knowledgeable you are about sparkling wine.
