Types of Sparkling Wine
Dosage Sugar Levels
Why the dosage makes all the difference ?
The sugar content, or “dosage”, in the expedition liqueur is what determines the final profile of the sparkling wine.
In general terms, this liqueur is a mix of base wine and sugar, but beyond this common starting point, a multitude of possible variations exists.
The amount of sugar in the expedition liqueur is what makes each bottle of sparkling wine different, in that it adds a touch of personality.
Every dosage is a specific formula, and is one of the most closely guarded secrets of winemakers, as it makes their product unique. The dosage is always different, based on the type of sugar (such as cane sugar or enriched must) and on the base wine to which it is added (whether aged in the barrel or not, for example). Another possibility is not adding any sugar, or adding it in different quantities.
This dosage determines the style or type of sparkling wine, from the driest (without added sugar), Brut Nature, to Sweet - the sweetest. Plus, of course, all the other styles (Extra Brut, Brut, Extra Dry, Dry, Demi-Sec), which add versatility to this drink, and therefore wider gastronomic potential in terms of the fine art of pairing.
Brut Nature Zero Dosage
The words “Brut Nature” on the label of a sparkling wine bottle mean that it has no added sugar. This is sparkling wine in its purest state. Bright and glistening, it is a fresh aperitif, and the perfect companion for matching with all types of dishes in any meal, from starter to dessert.
Sugar content: 0-3 grs/lt.
Pairing: Ideal with dishes which are slightly salty or oily.
Extra Brut
Up to 6 grams of sugar per liter is added in the dosage of sparkling wines Extra Brut. This small touch of sweetness increases its versatility even more, making it ideal to combine with dishes that have an oily texture.
Sugar content: 0-6 grs/lt.
Pairing: Ideal for appetizers, starters and dishes that are acidic or slightly bitter.
Brut
With a pleasant mouthfeel, Brut sparkling wine contains a slightly larger amount of added sugar in the dosage.
The balanced acidity of the product means that this (still comparatively) small quantity of sugar is barely noticeable, highlighting the wine’s virtues and adding yet another pairing possibility to the range of sparkling wines. Brut sparkling wine is also the perfect partner for dishes that do not pair easily with other wines.
Sugar content: 0-12 grs/lt.
Pairing: Ideal with Asian or slightly spicy dishes.
Extra Dry
Extra Dry sparkling wine also has only a small amount of sugar added, but it is exactly the right quantity to give a heavier mouthfeel, thereby allowing this wine to be even more versatile, and work in more unusual pairings.
Sugar content:12 -17 grs/lt.
Pairing: Ideal with cheese and sweet dishes.
Dry
With a pleasant mouthfeel, Brut sparkling wine contains a slightly larger amount of added sugar in the dosage.
The balanced acidity of the product means that this (still comparatively) small quantity of sugar is barely noticeable, highlighting the wine’s virtues and adding yet another pairing possibility to the range of sparkling wines. Brut sparkling wine is also the perfect partner for dishes that do not pair easily with other wines.
Sugar content: 0-12 grs/lt.
Pairing: Ideal with Asian or slightly spicy dishes.
Semi Dry
The type of sparkling wines which accompanied family meals for years, due to its extreme versatility, but the added sugar makes it perfect for pairing with desserts.
Sugar content: 32 -50 grs/lt.
Pairing: Ideal with desserts.
Sweet
The dosage is what adds a higher quantity of sugar in sweet sparkling wines. This wine does not conceal its desire to be sweet, thereby becoming an indulgence for the senses.
A fantastic way to round off an evening.
Sugar contain: +50 grs/lt.
Pairing: Ideal to accompany desserts or to enjoy after a meal.