Wines of the Year 2026 | Sparkling Box

The Blue Neck 2021 Gran Reserva showcases the exceptional quality that comes from four years of careful aging. This stunning cava displays a big, rich, and opulent character with pronounced yeasty complexity that speaks to its extended time on lees. The wine presents beautifully creamy textures complemented by fresh apple notes, creating a harmonious balance between richness and elegance. Bold and delicious, this Gran Reserva represents the pinnacle of Maria Casanovas' winemaking craft, delivering an impressive and memorable drinking experience.

The Maria Casanovas winery embodies generations of family winemaking tradition in Catalunya's Penedès region. After years of farming grapes for Freixenet, the family launched their own production in 1994, moving to their current facility in 2011 where Aurora now leads the new generation. Located 200 meters above sea level in a protected forest setting, their 9-hectare estate benefits from both sea and mountain influences, creating a unique terroir for their 30-year-old vines. The family practices completely organic, manual viticulture on their farm-to-bottle operation, producing approximately 100,000 bottles annually of Brut Nature cava with no dosage. While primarily sold in Catalunya, 35% reaches export markets, reflecting their commitment to sustainable winemaking that aligns with Penedès' transition to fully organic production by 2025.

What I love most about this stunning pét-nat is the rich, creamy mousse, it’s miles ahead of every other pét-nat and Prosecco at this price point. Expect zesty citrus, crisp green apples, and ripe pears, all lifted by a fine, elegant fizz that brings incredible texture and balance. There’s a touch of natural sweetness, but it’s beautifully countered by zippy acidity, making it dangerously easy to drink.

Domaine Albert de Conti is a family-run organic estate in Saint-Julien d’Eymet, Bergerac, where Guillaume and Paulin de Conti have breathed new life into their grandfather’s vineyards. Farming 30 hectares organically, they work with biodynamic and agroforestry principles to enhance soil health and vine balance. This pét-nat, made from 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Sémillon, is crafted with a low-intervention approach, completing fermentation in bottle to create a naturally sparkling wine that’s bursting with energy and freshness.

Produced in Charly-sur-Marne in the Vallée de la Marne, this Champagne is crafted by the Baron family, who have sustainably farmed 38 hectares for generations. Sophie and Ignace Baron oversee every step, ensuring a wine that truly reflects its terroir. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality, this is exceptional grower Champagne.

Produced in Charly-sur-Marne in the Vallée de la Marne, this Champagne is crafted by the Baron family, who have sustainably farmed 38 hectares for generations. Sophie and Ignace Baron oversee every step, ensuring a wine that truly reflects its terroir. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality, this is exceptional grower Champagne.