America’s Champagne Conundrum: A Brewing Trade War Over Bubbles

The world of fine wines and champagnes is fizzing with tension as a potential trade war brews between the United States and the European Union. On Thursday, President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs of up to 200% on all alcoholic products from the EU, retaliating against a 50% tax the EU levied on American whiskey. While the news may seem like a "Champagne problem" for some, it has sent shockwaves through the wine industry, leaving connoisseurs and producers alike in a state of anxiety.

To ease the bubbling concerns, The New York Post has curated a list of exceptional sparkling wines from the United States and the United Kingdom (which is no longer part of the EU). These wines have been recognized for their excellence at the 2024 Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA), the most prestigious wine competition globally. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a casual sipper, these bottles are worth savoring, especially as the trade situation continues to unfold.

East Coast Elegance: Sparkling Wines That Shine

The East Coast of the United States is home to some of the finest sparkling wines in the country, and two standouts from the region have made it to The Post‘s list.

The first is the RGNY Scielo Riesling, a crisp and refreshing sparkling wine made entirely from Riesling grapes. Priced at $31, this bottle was awarded a Bronze medal at the 2024 DWWA, scoring an impressive 89/100. Decanter describes it as a perfect blend of citrus, lime, and a hint of petrol on the nose, with a palate of green apple, lime, and racy acidity. It’s a delightful choice for those who prefer a lighter, zesty bubbly.

Another East Coast gem is the Damiani Wine Cellars Brut, crafted using the Méthode Champenoise. This wine claimed the title of Best Sparkling Wine at the 38th annual New York Wine Classic in 2024. The 2017 vintage, made from a blend of 55% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir, and 20% Pinot Meunier, is unfortunately sold out, but Damiani offers other vintages with similar blends, priced between $50 and $65.

For those looking to explore multiple sparkling wines in one place, Sparkling Pointe in Southold, Long Island, is a must-visit destination. This winery specializes exclusively in bubbly varietals and has won numerous awards, including medals at the Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships. As their tagline cleverly asks, “If it’s not Sparkling, what’s the Pointe?”

West Coast Wonders: Luxurious Bubbles from California

While the East Coast boasts its own sparkling gems, the West Coast is equally renowned for its luxurious and refined bubbly offerings. Two standout wines from California have captured the attention of connoisseurs and critics alike.

The Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Brut is a masterful blend of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Noir. This $85 bottle was awarded a Gold medal at the 2024 DWWA, scoring an impressive 96/100. Decanter describes it as a "hedonistic style" of wine, brimming with flavors of apple pie and vanilla ice cream, followed by a refreshing surge of citrus. Its full, foamy texture and lingering finish make it a perfect choice for special occasions.

Another West Coast standout is the Chandon Etoile Brut, priced at $90. This sparkling wine, made from 54% Chardonnay, 44% Pinot Noir, and 2% Pinot Meunier, also earned a Gold medal at the 2024 DWWA with a score of 96/100. Decanter praises its toasty nose, infused with scents of green apples and plums, which come alive on the palate. The fine effervescence and racy acidity make it a sophisticated and elegant choice for any wine lover.

Across the Pond: Stellar Sparkling Wines from the UK

While the UK is no longer part of the EU, its wine industry continues to thrive, producing some of the world’s most exceptional sparkling wines. Two British wines have made The Post‘s list, showcasing the nation’s prowess in the world of bubbles.

The Chapel Down Rosé is a stunning $48 sparkling rosé crafted from a blend of 61% Chardonnay, 23% Pinot Noir, and 9% Pinot Meunier. This wine claimed the prestigious Best in Show title at the 2024 DWWA with an impressive score of 97/100. Decanter describes it as a subtly aromatic wine with a clean, emphatic palate, featuring a mineral-salt undertow and a soft sherbet charm. Its restrained fruitiness and refined elegance make it a standout choice for rosé lovers.

Another British gem is the Hambledon Première Cuvée Brut, a $90 sparkling white wine made from a blend of 67% Chardonnay, 11% Pinot Noir, and 22% Pinot Meunier. This wine was awarded a Platinum medal at the 2024 DWWA, scoring an outstanding 97/100. Decanter raves about its "spectacular layers of brioche, toast, lemon curd, and spiced golden apple," which unfold onto a creamy, nutty texture. It’s a complex and indulgent wine that is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.

A Toast to Diversity: Why American and British Wines Shine

The wines featured on The Post‘s list are a testament to the diversity and excellence of sparkling wines produced outside the EU. From the crisp, citrusy notes of the RGNY Scielo Riesling to the luxurious, layered complexity of the Hambledon Première Cuvée Brut, these wines offer something for every taste and occasion.

What sets these wines apart is their ability to balance tradition with innovation. The Méthode Champenoise, a centuries-old technique used by winemakers like Damiani Wine Cellars and Chandon, ensures a level of quality and craftsmanship that is hard to match. At the same time, wineries like Chapel Down and Domaine Serene are pushing the boundaries with unique blends and flavor profiles that cater to modern palates.

Why This Matters: Supporting Local and Savoring the Good Stuff

As the U.S. and EU navigate their trade dispute, wine lovers have a unique opportunity to explore and support local producers. American and British wines are proving that they can rival their European counterparts in terms of quality and acclaim. By choosing these wines, consumers not only enjoy world-class bubbly but also contribute to the growth of their homegrown wine industries.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to elevate your everyday sipping experience, these wines are worth trying. So here’s to the art of winemaking, the thrill of discovery, and the joy of raising a glass to the best that America and the UK have to offer. Cheers!