ICYMI, there’s a champagne shortage across Canada. Due to reduced crops and supply chain issues, some of your favourite bottles of bubbly like Veuve Clicquot and Moet & Chandon are simply nonexistent on liquor store shelves. Never fear, there are still endless delicious bubbly options available, and many of them are Canadian-made! Read on for some seriously delightful alternative bottles of bubbly to pop at your next soiree.
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Henry of Pelham Cuvée Catharine Brut VQA
Made in Ontario, this award-winning option from Henry of Pelham features floral, nutty, citrus and toast flavors. With a blend of chardonnay and pinot noir grapes, think of it as a modern Niagara twist on your favourite sparkling wine.
Kim Crawford Extra Dry Prosecco
This new-to-Canada Prosecco from well-respected New Zealand wine producer Kim Crawford is one worth adding to your cart. Zippy and crisp with a dry finish (just as the name suggests), it has notes of crunchy pear, tropical fruit and citrus.
Jackson Trigg’s Entourage Grand Reserve Brut Sparkling
This elegant bottle is still more affordable than just about any champagne you’ll find, and features hand-picked grapes from Jackson Triggs’ Niagara vineyard. With a blend of chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier, its aged en tirage for three years for a fuller, more complex wine. Pair it with oysters for a luxe evening worthy of this delicious bubbly.
Saintly Sparkling Rose VQA
Another delightful Ontario option, this sparkling rose from Saintly is extra dry with fruity notes of watermelon, berries and grapefruit. Made with grapes from the Niagara Peninsula, it wins bonus points for the chicly minimalistic bottle that will add to your carefully curated tablescape.
Ruffino Prosecco
You can never go wrong with a bottle of Italian sparkling wine, and this option from Ruffino is a favourite for a reason. With notes of peach and citrus, it’s vibrant and bright at an affordable price point, perfect for toasting
Riunite Lambrusco Frizzante
New to the world of lambruscos? This affordable option is the perfect introduction. This lightly carbonated red wine is sweet, fruity and fizzy, making it the perfect accompaniment for any meal from creamy pastas to light and acidic salads. It also happens to be one of North America’s most popular imported wines, so you know it wins the popular vote!
Segura Viudas’ Brut Reserva Cava
This list wouldn’t be complete without a proper Spanish cava, and this extra dry bottle from Segura Viudas is just the ticket. With savoury honey notes and a long, creamy finish, pair it with a Spanish-inspired feast of paella with fresh seafood, or just enjoy on its own for a delicious sip.
Ferrari Brut Sparkling
Considered a quintessential Italian aperitivo wine, this easy-drinking option from Ferrari is crisp with notes of citrus, white peach and breakfast pastry (yes, please!). Take a note from the Italians and serve it alongside a plentiful aperitivo hour spread. And don’t forget to toast with a proper “cin cin”!
Aveleda Vinho Verde
While this may not classify as a typical bottle of bubbly, its slightly spritzy finish earns its place on this list. Made in Portugal, we love the slightly green tint of this vinho verde. Featuring aromas of fresh bread, citrus, herbs and green plum and apple, it pairs particularly well with fresh grilled fish or a casual snacking board.
Tarlant Brut Reserve Champagne
If you’re desperate for real-deal champagne, you’re in luck! Not all champagnes are sold out, and this popular option from Tarlant Brut happens to be available and extremely affordable (when it comes to champagne, that is). With notes of dried lemon and brioche, it’s sure to satisfy your champagne craving.