You want to pop some bubbly, but regular champagne just isn’t cutting it for you. Maybe it’s too pricey, or someone in the group prefers a different taste. We’ve got you covered with five top-notch alternatives.
We know how it feels to want something a bit different without compromising on quality. From sparkling wines to craft ciders, we’ve tried them all. Some of these picks even outshine the traditional champagne. We’ll break down each option, so you can impress your friends and family at your next gathering.
Let’s jump right in and find that perfect substitute together. Ready? Let’s do this!
5 Easy Substitutes for Champagne
While champagne is a classic choice for celebrations, there are plenty of other options that can bring just as much sparkle and joy. Here are our top five picks for alternatives to champagne:
1 – Prosecco
You might be thinking, what makes Prosecco a good substitute for champagne?
Prosecco is lighter and fruitier, with notes of apple and pear. It’s got that fun sparkle but doesn’t overpower your taste buds. We often use it in brunch mimosas for a more delicate touch.
Swap champagne with Prosecco using a 1:1 ratio in recipes. Trust us, it elevates those celebratory moments. For more ideas, check out our detailed guide on best Prosecco substitutes.
2 – Crémant
The next great substitute is Crémant. This sparkling wine has a smooth, creamy texture with crisp apple and zesty citrus flavors. It’s less sweet than Prosecco but still refreshingly light.
Crémant works great for those who find champagne a bit too rich. We often swap it in a 1:1 ratio for champagne in recipes. It’s perfect for making classy cocktails or toasting at celebrations.
Our personal tip: It’s amazing in a French 75 cocktail. Try it and see the difference it makes.
3 – Cava
We love Cava for its bright, lemony flavor. It’s like drinking sunshine. This Spanish sparkling wine brings in fresh apple and a hint of toastiness. It’s less sweet than Prosecco but still lively.
Swap it in a 1:1 ratio for champagne in any recipe. It strikes a perfect balance in mimosas. We’ve used Cava at brunches, and it never disappoints. For a twist, try it in a Cava Sangria. Just mix it with fresh fruits and a splash of orange juice, then enjoy.
4 – Metodo Classico
Another fantastic choice is Metodo Classico. This Italian sparkling wine has complex flavors of apple, pear, and a hint of minerality. It’s drier and more sophisticated than Prosecco.
We love using it in recipes that call for champagne in a 1:1 ratio. It brings a refined taste to celebrations. We swapped it in our Bellinis, and it was a hit. Its crisp, elegant flavor really stands out.
5 – Lambrusco
Last on our list is Lambrusco. This Italian sparkling red wine has a rich, fruity flavor with hints of strawberry, cherry, and a touch of fizz. It’s more robust and less sweet than Prosecco.
We use Lambrusco for its unique balance of fruity sweetness and slight bitterness. It’s perfect in a simple 1:1 swap for champagne in recipes.
We’ve enjoyed it most in berry punches and festive drinks. Try it in a summer fruit blend with a splash of lemonade. It’s always a refreshing choice for any celebration.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.