What are Cava and Prosecco?
JOHN ASH: Champagne and champagne look-a-likes are based on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes (sometimes with Pinot Meunier grapes as a blender). Cava and Prosecco, from Spain and Italy respectively, are made using entirely different grapes. Cava is very dry and lemony and is absolutely great with rich food. There are lots of different sparkling wines in the world. The Australians have a sparkling wine made from a Shiraz. The idea of bubbles is very seductive. There’s a big world to discover out there. Get advice from your wine merchant.