The first secret… Missouri makes delicious, award-winning sparkling wine! Not everyone knows about it, but now you do. The next secret… sparkling wine and champagne are similar but not the same; so, let’s clarify that first. After an international trade agreement made in 2006, no new sparkling wines can be called Champagne unless made in a particular style with grapes grown in the Champagne region of France. There are a few American sparkling wines that were grandfathered in, but for the most part Champagne is from France. 

Missouri’s sparkling wines range from dry to sweet and are absolutely delightful! They are great for sipping on their own and make everything feel more festive and celebratory. This brings us to secret number three… sparkling wine makes the best cocktails! 

The bubbles add a luscious texture to cocktails that you just can’t beat. Dry sparkling wines have great acidity that can complement simple syrups and sweet mixers perfectly. While sweeter sparkling wines add the effervescence and act as the sweetening component of a cocktail. 

Try adding local bubbly to your favorite traditional cocktail recipe or try one of these…

Sugared Cranberry Ginger Mimosas would be fantastic made with either dry or sweet sparkling wine. 

This “Show Me” State take on the classic Moscow Mule is delicious with a dry Missouri sparkling wine. The Missouri Mule should definitely be on your cocktail bucket list!

Sparkling wine punch is always a hit and is perfect for serving a crowd. Try this Sparkling Elderflower Punch with a dry Missouri bubbly or use a sweet sparkling wine and leave out the sugar. 

If you’re looking for something a little different, this recipe for the 23 Skiddoo adds in a unique flavor by using Thyme. A dry Missouri sparkling wine is ideal for this cocktail.

For a truly simple sparkling cocktail, try this Ruby Red Grapefruit Fizz with a bottle of local, hand-crafted bubbly. 

Cheers to Missouri bubbles and why we love them!