What is a typical feature of sparkling wines made in the traditional method?

Sparkling wines made using the traditional method, also known as méthode champenoise or méthode traditionnelle, are characterized by a finer and more persistent bead of bubbles. This is achieved through secondary fermentation that occurs in the bottle, where the carbon dioxide produced dissolves in the wine, leading to very fine bubbles that rise slowly and steadily to the surface.

The production process involves a careful blending of base wines, the addition of sugar and yeast for the second fermentation, and aging on the lees (yeast sediment). This meticulous process enhances the texture and mouthfeel of the wine, contributing to a more elegant and refined bubble structure.

In contrast to other characteristics, such as loud effervescence or a specific color, the subtlety and quality of the bubble formation exemplify the finesse often sought in high-quality sparkling wines. However, flavors can vary widely among sparkling wines, and they can range from dry to sweet, while colors are typically indicative of the grape varietals used rather than the method itself.