Sparklers have moved beyond special occasions into everyday life in recent years.
According to analysts at the beverage alcohol market data firm IWSR Group, the number of Americans buying bubbles rose by 30% between 2019 and 2022. People are not only drinking more sparkling wine, they are drinking it more frequently. During that period the number of people sipping bubbly monthly rose to 72%, up from 56%, and experts expect this figure to rise by more than 15% through at least 2026. Most impressive, though? Nearly a quarter of the respondents said they drink bubbles at least twice a week.
Unless those researchers focused their attention on Beverly Hills, chances are most folks aren’t splashing out $50 on a bottle of Champagne multiple times per week. (But if so, we’d love to hang.) That’s where crémant comes in. These under-the-radar French sparkling wines are made in the méthode Champenoise, with the second fermentation in the bottle, just in regions outside of the birthplace of bubbles. And unlike Champagne, prices start around $20, making it a delicious and affordable option.
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Of all the crémants in France, the closest to Champagne in terms of varietals, terroir and geographic proximity is Crémant de Bourgogne. Hailing from one of the most coveted wine regions on the planet—Burgundy—these reasonably priced bottles benefit from the abundance of high-quality Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and other grapes grown on precisely defined plots of Unesco World Heritage–recognized climats or terroir.
“We’re working off the same chalky and, in some parts granitic and limestone soils, that grow the majority of the best wines we know,” says Wine Enthusiast Tasting Director Anna-Christina Cabrales. “Depending on where grapes are sourced, we can get the same essence of chalky limestone. The persistence is not nearly as strong but those looking for lively acidity and a faint hint of minerality, it is there, for sure.”
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And because producers in the region are working with similar grapes to what’s used in its more-famous-for-sparkling-neighbor-to-the-north, they can make a wide range of effervescent styles including blanc de blanc, blanc de noir and rosé. “Naturally, this is a cost-effective alternative to Champagne,” adds Cabrales.
Ready to explore the world of France’s other sparkling wines? We’ve got you covered with expert picks below.
Moillard 2018 Brut (Crémant de Bourgogne)
Initially simple and muted, this wine opens to present predominantly with pink and white flowers, freshly squeezed citrus, and salt. Some grapefruit notes add energy to the round and creamy mouthfeel, which soften any lingering green and grainy sensations. 89 Points — Anna-Christina Cabrales
Louis Bouillot NV Perle de Vigne Grande Réserve Brut (Crémant de Bourgogne)
A complex nose of fresh orange flesh, apples and cherry skins harmonize with fresh thyme and violets on the nose. The gentle palate shows flavors of red and blackberries accompanied by freshly cut apples sprinkled with salt. Its delicate long finish is caressed by a hint of salinity. 91 Points — A.C.
Marie de Louvoy NV Carte Noire Pinot Noir Extra-Brut (Crémant de Bourgogne)
Pure aromas of cherry skin, Bosc pear and white flowers delight the nose. This delicate and precise expression is quite pithy on the palate and finishes with pulverized stone. Its lively mousse pairs well with oily Mediterranean fish dishes. 89 Points — A.C.
Caves de Marsigny NV Réserve Brut (Crémant de Bourgogne)
Fresh and zippy aromas of cut apple, lime skin, orange peel, white peach and white flowers penetrate the nose. The palate gives flavors of dehydrated lemon, along with orange oil, dandelions, and stone. Its round and creamy mouthfeel is refreshed by its gentle acidity. Simple and refreshing. Best Buy. 88 Points — A.C.
Jean-Charles Boisset NV No.Infinity Brut (Crémant de Bourgogne)
Riesling-like aromas are accompanied by cherries, wildflowers and damp earth on the nose. The palate displays flavors of Anjou pear, stone and light salt encased in good texture and brisk acidity. This wine makes for a great aperitif. 88 Points — A.C.
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