Festillant is a wonderful, sparkling celebratory drink for all ages

Weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and a whole host of other occasions call for a glass of bubbly to celebrate.

Traditionally, this has always been champagne or perhaps a good quality sparkling wine made by the same method, such as most English sparklers.

But a sector of the population or family gathering is often left out, whether due to age or circumstance – those expecting a child or recovering from an illness.

But no more! A sparkler is at hand for everyone to enjoy and join in the fun. Festillant is a sparkling non-alcoholic ‘wine’, distributed by a top sparkling wine producer in Saumur in the Loire Valley. It is made with de-alcoholised wine, with the addition of some grape juice and is surprisingly good.

I have tried many nonalcohol wines over the years, and until now, none has beaten my admittedly low expectations of this ‘wine’ category.

Festillant from Gratien et Meyer, is just off dry, with good fruit content, clean, crisp and refreshing. Although naturally lacking in body with no alcohol, it is very drinkable and indeed enjoyable.

Gratien et Meyer are renowned for their first-class traditional method sparkling wines, made by the same method as champagne, but with different grape varieties grown in the Loire.

This non-alcoholic beverage is relatively new to their range and has been recently modified to lower the sugar level considerably.

Thus, no cloying on the palate and no strange aftertastes encountered so often with other nonalcoholic wines.

With many large gatherings still not allowed and with many people either selfisolating or shielding due to vulnerability, Festillant is perfect for a select children’s party at home or for a cheering glass for pregnant women.

It is, of course, perfect for those taking the wheel soon after whatever the celebration might be. A great bottle thus for including everyone in our celebrations, offering nor just a fizzy drink, but a real alternative to champagne, but with no alcohol.

A pale-yellow colour with golden tinges and aromatics featuring apple and citrus notes. Lively, long-lasting mousse with a fruity, light body, underpinned by a very light touch of sweetness. Excellent length for a sparkler of this type.

It was also a great addition to a bowl of fresh strawberries, cut in half and sprinkled with a little sugar and chopped mint.

Terrific price at £4.50 from The Wine Society. And with a sleek, classy presentation, it even looks like a bottle of champagne. 0% alcohol, 100% pleasure.