Question 1

What’s the difference between sparkling wine, Champagne, and Prosecco?

Accepted Answer

This speaks to the origination of the Grape.  St. Dixie Sparkling Wine Grape was born in an old fashion traditional winery in California.  The name Champagne simply refers to sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France. Meanwhile, Prosecco originates in Italy and is made using the Tank Method with prosecco grapes.

Question 2

How does  sparkling wine get its sparkle?

Accepted Answer

The best sparkling wines, just like the finest French champagnes, are crafted using the rigorous Méthode Traditionnelle. The bubble magic happens during a second fermentation that takes place in a sealed bottle, when yeast begins to produce natural CO2—a phenomenon known as Prise de Mousse, or “capture the sparkle.”

Question 3

Which grapes are used to make sparkling?

Accepted Answer

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier are the traditional sparkling wine grape varietals used to varying degrees depending on the style.

Question 4

What’s the best way to open the bottle?

Accepted Answer

Once you remove the foil and the cage, put one hand firmly on the cork to steady it and the other on the base of the bottle. While keeping the bottle pointed in a safe direction, slowly twist the bottle, not the cork. As the base twists, you should feel the cork loosen, until the eventual pop of success. When this is done correctly, there shouldn’t be any “shooting” or spillage

Question 5

What’s the ideal temperature for serving sparkling wine?

Accepted Answer

It’s best when chilled , 40 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit, achieved by 30 minutes in ice water or 3 hours in the refrigerator—and poured into a flute or white wine glass. A flute helps preserve the bubbles, while a white wine glass offers a little more breathing room and can open up some beautiful aromas. Pour a small amount into the glass and let it settle before filling the glass three-quarters full. If it’s hot out, lower your pour level to ensure every sip stays at a cooler temperature

Question 6

How long can a bottle of sparkling wine last?

Accepted Answer

As general rule, you should drink most non-vintage sparkling wines within the first few months of purchase. Vintages wines can be enjoyed up to 15 or 20 years after the Harvest vintage. Once popped, we recommend drinking within 3 to 5 hours.

Question 7

What’s the best method and temperature for storing?

Accepted Answer

Pick somewhere cool and dark, around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The cooler temperature allows sparkling to age slowly. Additionally, keep sparkling away from light as much as possible. For horizontal or vertical storage, people often choose to store wines horizontally to keep the cork moist, but that’s not as big of a concern with sparkling because of the pressure of the cork. But to age sparkling for three years or more, your best bet is to store it horizontally.

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