ON THE GRAPEVINE

There’s something special about popping the corks on a bottle of fizz, especially when you have 250 million bubbles rising to the occasion – the average amount in a bottle of sparkling wine.

And with the summer social season finally in full swing (depending on the rules, of course), there couldn’t be a better time to spark up the garden party atmosphere with a glass of something fizzy.

1. M&S Found Blanquette de Limoux NV, France, £10, Marks & Spencer stores

Deliciously inviting and fresh, summer meadow notes and uplifting flavours of ripe apples and pears alongside a very subtle biscuity note make this easy, breezy blanquette one for our gold list. It’s one of 12 wines in M&S’ new-ish and nifty Found range (all £10 or under). We love it and so will you.

2. Solpiantez Spumante Brut Millesimato 2019, Italy, £10.99, Virgin Wines

This fragrant spumante makes a delightful alternative to prosecco. Scented with white flowers and apple blossom, followed by charming orchard fruits, pear notes and a touch of lemon sherbet, it’s delicate and crisp with a fine mousse and persistent finish. One for aperitivo drinking... bellissima! 3.

Freixenet Prosecco DOC, Italy, £12, Tesco

This perfectly pitched prosecco is a fitting choice for stay-at-home soirées, with its striking Insta-friendly cut-glass bottle and cascade of zesty lemon fruit, with hints of green apple and peach, white flower aromas, citrus acidity and lots of lovely freshness. Absolutely delicious.

4. Jansz Rose Brut NV, Tasmania, Australia, £17.95, Slurp

Utterly gorgeous; rose petal aromas and a fine, creamy mousse lends real finesse, with tiers of strawberry and citrus fruits, the merest hint of nougat, with fresh acidity lending crispness on the finish. A beautiful and super stylish drink.