Sparkling wine, especially Champagne, has been the preferred choice for celebrations of all kinds. Royal, political, national, fashionable, sporting. Whatever the occasion, it has to be sparkling. It is the wine of choice for festive occasions. But just as there are various occasions for which sparkling wine suits, there are many expressions of sparkling wine. Not just Champagne. So, which one to select for a given occasion? Are sparkling wines all created equal? Are they always expensive? (Answer: no!) And how do the bubbles get into the wine anyway? We will look at various styles of sparkling wine from different countries, consider how you can make quality distinctions in these wines, and finally consider their relative value. You will taste fine examples of Australian Sparkling wine, different expressions of Champagne, other Old World Sparkling wines, Sparkling Red wine, Prosecco and Moscato d’Asti.