Sparkling Wines to Elevate Your Next Brunch Party

Skip the mimosa and try something worth talking about.

Brunch. Something I look forward to every weekend.

Steak and eggs, French toast, omelettes, pancakes, thick cut bacon, shrimp and grits. And when we think of brunch drinks, mimosas, bellinis, and Bloody Marys, all unlimited of course, come to mind.

Now don't get me wrong, I love all of these and have had many a Sunday Funday that lasted until 10:00 p.m.

But there is something about brunch with a simple glass of bubbly that just takes it to another level.

Here are a few sparkling wines that I personally love with brunch and recommend as alternatives to your standard Prosecco and Champagne.

CRÉMANT D'ALSACE

A bright, approachable, and citrus-forward sparkling wine from the Alsace region of France. Made using the same method as Champagne, Crémant d'Alsace offers notes of green apple, lemon zest, and subtle florals, making it a crowd pleaser for brunch.

It pairs well with eggs, pastries, and light breakfast dishes, and I personally enjoy Lucien Albrecht Brut and Dopff au Moulin Brut.

PORTUGUESE SPARKLING WINE

Often overlooked, Portuguese sparkling wines are fresh, balanced, and food friendly. Many lean slightly fruity with bright acidity, making them great for seafood-forward brunch dishes, shrimp and grits, and omelets.

Filipa Pato 3B Rosé Bairrada and Murganheira Reserva Bruto are two great options to try.

SOUTH AFRICAN SPARKLING WINE

South African sparkling wines, commonly labeled Méthode Cap Classique, are elegant and structured, with notes of citrus, brioche, and minerality.

It's a beautiful surprise for guests, and its versatility makes it an excellent choice for a range of brunch dishes whether savory or lighter fare. Graham Beck's Brut and Rosé are must-tries.

FRANCIACORTA

An elegant and refined sparkling wine from Lombardy, Franciacorta is Italy's answer to Champagne.

These wines offer a rich, creamy profile with notes of citrus, stone fruit, brioche, and almond, making them the perfect option for a more elevated brunch menu. Two options to try are Ca' del Bosco Cuvée Prestige and Bellavista Alma Brut.

AMERICAN SPARKLING WINE

Yes, American sparkling wines are delicious, fresh, and rich. You'll get a variety of notes depending on the producer but expect hints of yellow apple, citrus, and brioche with a creamy finish from most sparkling wines out of California.

It's a great choice for classic brunch favorites like bacon, pancakes, and eggs.

My go-tos are Roederer Estate and Mumm Napa Valley.

XO,
Jess