Best Champagne & Sparkling Wine: Your Complete Guide

Girl holding a glass of champagne wearing an amazing jean jacket with pearls

Pop the cork and get ready to indulge in a bubbly adventure as we explore the world of Champagne and sparkling wine. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something bubbly, we’ve curated a list of the best Champagne bottles at every budget.

From luxurious Champagne that whispers elegance to affordable bottles that won’t break the bank, join us on a sparkling journey. Get ready to sip, savor, and sparkle!

Best Champagne: What to Look For

When searching for the best Champagne, several factors should be considered: 

 

  • First and foremost, quality should be prioritized. Look for reputable Champagne houses or producers known for their expertise and craftsmanship. 
  • Check for the region of origin, as true Champagne comes exclusively from the Champagne region of France. 
  • Additionally, consider the Champagne’s style, such as whether it is brut (dry), extra brut (extra dry), or demi-sec (semi-sweet), to match personal taste preferences. 
  • Pay attention to the grape varieties used, with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier being the only grapes allowed in Champagne blends and common in other sparkling wines as well.
  • Finally, evaluate the aroma, flavor profile, and overall balance of the champagne to ensure it aligns with your desired experience.
Black Owned Champagne Labels

Is all Sparkling Wine Champagne?

No, not all sparkling wine is Champagne. Champagne is a specific type of sparkling wine that comes from the Champagne region in France. The term “Champagne” is legally protected and can only be used for wines produced in that region using specific grape varieties and production methods. 

Sparkling wines produced outside of Champagne, even if they undergo secondary fermentation to create bubbles, are generally referred to as sparkling wine or by their specific regional names, such as Cava from Spain.

Sparkling wine from other regions can offer just as wonderful quality but at a much more affordable price point. Below we explore some of the best Champagne and sparkling wines at every budget!

Sparkling Wine Sweetness Scale: Understanding the Label

To determine the sweetness level of Champagne, you can look at the label or the technical information provided by the producer. Champagne bottles often include terms that indicate the sweetness level. Here are some common terms, listed from driest to sweetest:

  1. Brut Nature or Brut Zero: These champagnes are bone-dry with no added sugar, making them the driest option.
  2. Extra Brut: This style is also very dry, with minimal residual sugar.
  3. Brut: The most popular style, brut champagnes are dry but may have a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity.
  4. Extra Dry or Extra Sec: Despite the name, these champagnes have a touch of sweetness and can be enjoyed by those who prefer a slightly sweeter taste.
  5. Sec: This category is noticeably sweeter than brut champagnes, making it a good choice for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness.
  6. Demi-Sec: These champagnes are noticeably sweet and pair well with desserts.
  7. Doux: The sweetest style of champagne, doux champagnes are rich and decadent, often reserved for dessert pairings or special occasions.

By understanding these terms and their corresponding sweetness levels, you can select a champagne that aligns with your taste preferences.

This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing directly through my recommendations, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support Wine with Paige. Thanks for being part of the adventure!

Best Champagne Under $20

Looking for the best cheap Champagne under $10 or even $20? We’ve rounded up our favorite picks to help you celebrate in style without breaking the bank.

La Marca Prosecco

La Marca Prosecco is a beloved Italian sparkling wine renowned for its vibrant and refreshing character. Crafted in the Prosecco region of Italy, it captivates with its lively effervescence and delicate flavors of green apple, white peach, and citrus. With its consistent quality and approachable price point, La Marca Prosecco has become a go-to choice for those seeking a delightful sparkling wine for casual celebrations or simply to enjoy on a sunny afternoon. It’s also one of the best Proseccos for Mimosas!

Typically $16
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Mumm Napa Brut Prestige Sparkling Wine

Mumm Napa Brut Prestige is a captivating sparkling wine hailing from California’s renowned Napa Valley. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it showcases a harmonious blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes, resulting in a vibrant and complex flavor profile. With its lively bubbles, crisp acidity, and hints of citrus and green apple, this wine offers a delightful and refreshing experience that captures the essence of the Napa Valley terroir.

Typically $20
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Segura Viudas Brut Reserva Cava

Cava is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a high-quality wine that’s also one of the best cheap champagnes under $10. Segura Viuda is one of my favorite sparkling wine houses in Spain, where they craft their bubblies using the same traditional method as Champagne, but with native varieties. This bottle is excellent!  

Typically $10
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Depreville Brut Sparkling Wine

Depreville Brut Sparkling Wine is a delightful and approachable sparkling wine that offers exceptional quality at an affordable price. Produced in France, it charms with its fine bubbles and bright golden color. With its crisp acidity, delicate fruit flavors, and a touch of toasty notes, Depreville Brut Sparkling Wine is a versatile and enjoyable choice for everyday celebrations or casual gatherings.

Typically $13
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Best Champagne Under $30

Discover a delicious selection of the best Champagne under $30. These delightful options offer excellent value without compromising on taste or elegance. 

In this curated list, we present a selection of the best Champagne under $30 (and other sparkling wines you should try!). From crisp and refreshing Prosecco to lively Cava and other affordable bubbly options, these gems deliver exceptional value without compromising on taste or quality. 

Paula Kornell California Brut

Experience the harmonious blend of California’s finest grapes in every sip of Paula Kornell California Brut. This sparkling wine showcases the artistry of winemaker Paula Kornell, delivering a delightful balance of fruitiness and elegance. With its vibrant bubbles, notes of ripe orchard fruits, and a crisp, refreshing finish, Paula Kornell California Brut is a captivating choice for any occasion.

Typically $22
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Bottega Oro Prosecco DOC

Bottega Oro Prosecco DOC is a distinguished Italian sparkling wine that embodies the essence of luxury and craftsmanship. With its striking golden bottle and delicate bubbles, it captivates the senses from the moment it is poured. This prosecco delights with its fresh and fruity aromas, crisp acidity, and flavors of green apple and white flowers, offering a truly indulgent and celebratory experience.

Typically $30
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Roederer Estate Brut

Embark on a journey of pure delight with the exceptional Roederer Estate Brut. Crafted by the renowned Roederer family in California’s Anderson Valley, this sparkling wine captures the essence of elegance and refinement. With its fine bubbles, crisp acidity, and notes of green apple, pear, and citrus, Roederer Estate Brut offers a truly enjoyable and versatile drinking experience that will elevate any occasion. 

Typically $30
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Mumm Napa Cuvee M

Elevate your celebrations with the captivating Mumm Napa Cuvee M. Crafted in the heart of Napa Valley, this sparkling wine is a testament to elegance and sophistication. With its fine bubbles, vibrant acidity, and a beautiful blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Mumm Napa Cuvee M delights the senses with flavors of citrus, stone fruits, and hints of brioche. Indulge in the luxurious experience of Mumm Napa Cuvee M and create memorable moments filled with joy, style, and the artistry of Napa Valley winemaking.

Typically $24
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Bodegas Naveran Brut Cava 2020

Discover the enchanting allure of Bodegas Naveran Brut Cava 2020, a Spanish sparkling wine that captures the essence of celebration and joy. Crafted with meticulous care in the Penedès region, this Cava delights with its fine bubbles and golden hue. With its crisp acidity, refreshing citrus flavors, and a touch of toasty complexity, Bodegas Naveran Brut Cava 2020 is a perfect choice for toasting special moments or simply enjoying the pleasures of life.

Typically $23
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Best Champagne Under $50

Schramsberg Blanc De Noirs

Schramsberg Blanc De Noirs is a distinguished and highly acclaimed American sparkling wine produced by Schramsberg Vineyards. Crafted predominantly from red Pinot Noir grapes, it displays a beautiful golden hue with hints of copper. 

This sparkling wine entices with its complex aromas of ripe berries, baked apple, and toasted almonds, while the palate delights with its creamy texture, vibrant acidity, and layers of rich flavors. Schramsberg Blanc De Noirs is a remarkable choice for those seeking a luxurious and expressive sparkling wine experience.

Typically $40
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Taittinger La Francaise Brut Champagne

This bottle of Champagne is an exquisite and iconic champagne hailing from the esteemed Maison Taittinger. Crafted with precision and finesse, it showcases a pale golden color and fine, persistent bubbles. 

This Champagne delights the senses with its elegant aromas of white flowers, stone fruits, and brioche, while the palate is treated to a harmonious balance of freshness, creaminess, and delicate flavors, making Taittinger La Francaise Brut Champagne a true testament to the artistry and elegance of champagne.

Typically $45
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Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne

Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne is an exquisite expression of the renowned Maison’s craftsmanship and legacy. With a rich history dating back to 1743, this Champagne exudes elegance and finesse. Its vibrant fruitiness, notes of green apple and citrus, and fine bubbles create a luxurious and celebratory drinking experience that has made Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial one of the best Champagnes under $100 and a beloved choice for special occasions and moments of joy. 

Typically $40-65
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Lancelot-Royer Blancs de Blancs Grand Cru Brut Cuvee des Chevaliers

Blanc de Blancs simply means a sparkling white wine crafted from white grapes (always Chardonnay, if from the Champagne region of France). 

Sourced from the chalky, cool soils of Cramant in the esteemed Côte des Blancs, this sparkling wine unveils flavors of lemon curd, delicately toasted brioche, and hints of green tea, creating a harmonious and enticing palate with a full-bodied texture. 

With its long, savory, and seductive character, this wine is not only captivating in its youth but possesses the potential to age gracefully, akin to the finest vintage bottles. Winemaker Michael Chauvet’s touch adds an extra layer of complexity and texture, as 30% reserve wine is artfully incorporated.

Typically $50
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Best Champagne Under $100

Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne

Veuve Clicquot is an iconic and prestigious Champagne that has garnered worldwide acclaim. Known for its consistent quality, it offers a perfect balance of elegance and depth. With its signature yellow label, this Champagne delights the palate with notes of citrus, brioche, and stone fruits, making it a timeless choice for both celebrations and moments of indulgence. Plus, its label just screams “luxury!”

Typically $67
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Billecart Salmon Brut Reserve Champagne

Embark on a love affair with the enchanting Billecart Salmon Brut Reserve Champagne. With its delicate pale gold hue and mesmerizing effervescence, this champagne sets the stage for a seductive sensory journey. Succumb to the alluring aromas of fresh fruits and delicate floral notes. Each sip reveals a symphony of flavors, leaving you longing for more. 

Typically $55
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Roederer Estate L’Ermitage Brut, 2015

Indulge in the epitome of elegance and luxury with Roederer Estate L’Ermitage Brut, 2015. Like a love poem captured in a bottle, this exquisite sparkling wine will enchant your senses and ignite a symphony of emotions. With its radiant golden hue, delicate mousse, and complex layers of flavors, including ripe fruits, toasted almonds, and subtle floral nuances, every sip is a passionate embrace that transcends time. 

Typically $60 – $80
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Iron Horse Ocean Reserve Blanc de Blancs Brut 2018

Immerse yourself in the splendor of Iron Horse Ocean Reserve Blanc de Blancs 2018, an exceptional sparkling wine that embodies elegance and sustainability. Crafted with precision in the Russian River Valley, this Blanc de Blancs showcases the remarkable qualities of Chardonnay grapes, expressing delicate flavors of citrus, green apple, and a hint of toasty richness. With each sip, you can savor the knowledge that a portion of the proceeds from this wine support ocean conservation, making Iron Horse Ocean Reserve Blanc de Blancs a truly remarkable and purposeful choice.

Typically $60
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Best Rose Champagne

Prepare to be enamored by a world of delicate hues and elegant flavors as we present a curated selection of the best Rosé Champagnes. 

From its captivating pink tones to its enchanting aromas and vibrant palate, Rosé Champagne exudes romance and sophistication. In this handpicked list, we showcase a range of exceptional Rosé Champagnes that combine the finesse of Champagne with the allure of rosé. 

Discover the perfect bubbly companion for celebrations, intimate gatherings, or moments of self-indulgence as we explore the realm of the best Rosé Champagnes, where elegance meets effervescence in every sip.

Chandon Brut Rosé Sparkling Wine

Chandon Brut Rosé Sparkling Wine is a captivating and elegant wine crafted with the utmost care by the esteemed House of Chandon. Made in the méthode traditionnelle, this sparkling wine displays a beautiful pink hue and delicate aromas of strawberries and cherries. With its lively bubbles, balanced acidity, and hints of floral and citrus notes, Chandon Brut Rosé is a versatile and delightful choice for those seeking a refreshing and sophisticated sparkling wine experience.

Typically $20
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Bottega Oro Rosa Sparkling Rose

Bottega Oro Rosa Sparkling Rosé is a captivating and elegant Italian sparkling wine that exudes both style and flavor. Encased in a beautifully designed rose gold bottle, this wine entices with its delicate pink hue and fine bubbles. With its enticing aromas of red berries and floral notes, coupled with a refreshing and balanced palate, Bottega Oro Rosa Sparkling Rosé is a delightful choice for those seeking a sophisticated and indulgent sparkling rosé experience.

Typically $30
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Ferrari Rose

Ferrari Rosé sparkling wine is a prestigious and elegant Italian wine hailing from the Trento region. Crafted with utmost care and expertise, it captivates with its vibrant pink hue and persistent perlage. With its delicate aromas of wild strawberries, cherries, and floral notes, coupled with a dry and harmonious palate, Ferrari Rosé sparkling wine offers a refined and memorable drinking experience that exemplifies the excellence of Italian sparkling wines.

Typically $35
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Champagne Eric Rodez Brut Rose Grand Cru

Experience the epitome of luxury with Champagne Eric Rodez Brut Rosé Grand Cru. Crafted by the esteemed Eric Rodez in the grand cru vineyards of the Champagne region, this sparkling wine exudes elegance and sophistication. With its enticing salmon pink color, fine bubbles, and exquisite flavors of red berries, floral notes, and a touch of brioche, Champagne Eric Rodez Brut Rosé Grand Cru offers a truly indulgent and memorable drinking experience that exemplifies the artistry of Champagne.

Typically $90
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Best Sweet Champagne

Looking for the best sweet Champagne? Traditional Champagne that is sweet will be labeled as “Doux” or “Demi-Sec”. Modern producers may simply state that the wine is sweet.

Indulge your palate in the luscious world of sweet Champagnes, where delightful flavors and subtle sweetness dance harmoniously in every glass. In this carefully curated list, we unveil the best sweet champagnes that cater to those with a penchant for a sweeter sip. 

From demi-sec to doux styles, these Champagnes offer a delightful balance of effervescence and gentle sweetness, making them perfect for toasting special occasions or as a luxurious treat. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the decadent charm and refined flavors of the best sweet Champagnes, as they bring a touch of opulence to your moments of celebration.

Schramsberg Cremant Demi-Sec

Schramsberg Cremant Demi-Sec is a captivating American sparkling wine that showcases the renowned craftsmanship of Schramsberg Vineyards. Made in the méthode traditionnelle, it offers a balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a touch of sweetness in their sparkling wine. With its luscious flavors of ripe tropical fruits, honey, and floral undertones, Schramsberg Cremant Demi-Sec is a delightful and versatile option for both celebratory occasions and pairing with desserts.

Typically $45
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Barefoot Bubbly Moscato Spumante Champagne Sparkling Wine

One of the best cheap Champagnes under $10, Barefoot is also one of the best sweet Champagnes out there! While technically not considered a “Champagne”, since it’s grown in California and crafted from Moscato grapes, it still delivers a delicious effervescent celebration in every glass. If you’re looking for sweet sparkling wine, this is a go-to!

P.S. Read my interview with Barefoot winemaker, Jennifer Wall!

Typically $10
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In conclusion, the world of champagne is a captivating journey of flavors and celebrations. Whether you’re toasting a special occasion or simply treating yourself, the best champagnes elevate any moment. So go ahead, indulge in the effervescent charm and complexity of these exquisite bottles. Remember, life is too short not to drink champagne and savor the effervescence that it brings to your palate. Cheers to a world of fine bubbles and endless joy!

Cheers to Retail Therapy: Fun Champagne Inspired Items

AFFILIATE CAROUSEL SHORT CODE:

Aspen & Birch Modern Champagne Flutes
Aspen & Birch Modern Champagne Flutes
Sweet Wine Scented Bath Salts
Sweet Wine Scented Bath Salts
Pink Champagne T-Shirt
Pink Champagne T-Shirt
Champagne Problems Poster
Champagne Problems Poster
Champagne Candle
Champagne Candle
Aspen & Birch Modern Champagne Flutes
Aspen & Birch Modern Champagne Flutes
Sweet Wine Scented Bath Salts
Sweet Wine Scented Bath Salts
Pink Champagne T-Shirt
Pink Champagne T-Shirt
Champagne Problems Poster
Champagne Problems Poster
Champagne Candle
Champagne Candle
Aspen & Birch Modern Champagne Flutes
Aspen & Birch Modern Champagne Flutes
Sweet Wine Scented Bath Salts
Sweet Wine Scented Bath Salts
Pink Champagne T-Shirt
Pink Champagne T-Shirt
Champagne Problems Poster
Champagne Problems Poster
Champagne Candle
Champagne Candle
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