Much has been reported over the past few weeks in the UK press about the European shortage of food grade CO2, resulting in a cruel penalty against beer and soft drinks (in which CO2 is a key ingredient) as the summer sizzles on and World Cup hopes remain high. From the corner then, we thought we’d kick in some suggestions for naturally carbonated wines with our selection of fizz from around the world…

England

Henners Brut NV
Scoring for England, this traditional blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier (rested on lees for 36 months) has green apple and pear fruit and a lively mousse.

France

Champagne Gremillet Selection Brut NV
A classic Champagne, with rich fruit and baked biscuit flavours,  from the warmer vineyards south of Troyes.  Served in French Embassies worldwide so likely to be uncorked if France repeat their 1998 success!

Domaine J.Laurens, Cremant de Limoux ‘Les Graimenous’ 2016
From the Languedoc, this Chardonnay dominated wine ( which built Domaine J.Laurens reputation as an outstanding sparkling wine producer) is a delicious and serious alternative to Champagne.

Although their World Cup hopes are now dashed these are well crafted New World sparklers…

Spain

Mas Macià Cava Brut NV
Spain’s team may have shifted towards Madrid from Barcelona but there’s no substitute for this 2018 Sommelier Wine Award winner from Penedès .

Chile

Emiliana Organic Sparkling Wine NV
The first organic fizz from Chile, this is a Chardonnay dominated wine from the Casablanca Valley.

Australia

Alpha Box & Dice Zaptung Glera, South Australia NV
Made from 100% Glera fermented with natural yeasts, this is a crown capped and ‘unassailably positive marvel’.

And for those missing the emotion usually provided by Italy…

Italy

Alasia Spumante Brut, Alta Langa 2009
Made by Araldica’s sparkling wine expert Carlo Manera in the traditional style this wine rests on its lees for 3 years before disgorgement – the same amount of time the Italian team will wait to see if they qualify for the World Cup 2022.