Differences and pairings between brut, extra brut, sec, demi-sec and doux sparkling wine
In this article we want to shed some light on the terminology that is used to classify the various sparkling wines on the market. How many times have you happened to read read the words brut, extra brut, demi-sec on labels and not understand exactly what they mean and, more importantly, their differences? This with the risk of making the wrong choice in view on an occasion to celebrate or on the food pairing to propose.
Without too many technicalities and without using super expert terminology, they try to extricate us with ease.
Let's start by saying that this is not discretionary information, but a real regulatory obligation imposed by a European law that classifies the various sparkling wines based on the level of sugar per litre present in the wine after the "disgorgement" phase. Disgorgement refers to the moment in which the temporary cork and yeast residues are removed from sparkling wines during their production process.
In this delicate phase, there are some losses of liquid, so the bottles are filled with the “liquer d'expedition“ , a “syrup” with a secret recipe that characterizes the wine and differentiates it from others.
Believe us, every producer is jealous of his own recipe for “liquer d'expedition“!
But then, how can we choose the best sparkling wine?
To put it simply, we can say that there are types of wine that are suitable for particular occasions, others that are more suitable for other events and to pair with certain dishes.
Classification and pairings of sparkling wine
Pas dosé or zero dosage (ultra dry)
In this case the amount of sugar is less than 3 grams/liter. A zero dosage sparkling wine is synonymous with refinement and elegance, expresses all the nuances of the territory in which it is born and is particularly suitable for aperitifs or with raw seafood. It is often an expensive product, to be appreciated even on its own.
Extra Brut
The amount of sugar is less than 6 grams/liter. The extra brut are sparkling wines with great freshness and marked acidity, also in this case perfect as an aperitif or to accompany not too elaborate dishes.
Brut
The amount of sugar is less than 12 grams/liter. This “range” includes most of the sparkling wines on the market. This dosage can satisfy different palates and allows for a very versatile pairing in the kitchen.
Extra dry
The amount of sugar is less than 17 grams/liter. From this level on, the residual sugar begins to be tasted. The sparkling wine acquires body and roundness and is better suited to be paired with elaborate and long-cooked dishes, almost as a substitute for traditional red wine.
Dry or dry
The sugar content is less than 32 grams/litre. Perfect when paired with cheeses and cured meats but its residual sugar content can also be an excellent accompaniment to desserts.
Half dry
The amount of sugar is less than 50 grams/liter. In this case the sparkling wine is sweet and fruity and the pairing is only and exclusively with desserts or, if you want to dare something unusual, with blue cheeses!
Sweet or doux
The amount of sugar is more than 50 grams per liter of wine. As the name suggests: it is a sparkling and sweet wine, also in this case to be paired only with desserts.
We hope this article helped you clarify and you enjoyed it.
Our selection of sparkling wines of q quality :
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