Wine
Top Sparkling Wines Under $50 to Try Now
September 2, 2025
The world of sparkling wine offers extraordinary value for those who know where to look. From crisp Proseccos to complex méthode traditionnelle bottles, the range of value-driven sparkling wines spans the gamut of regions, grape varieties, and styles, though keeping a few key factors in mind can ensure you get the best bang for your buck.
Despite its rich history, sparkling wine production has greatly evolved over the past few decades. Domestic producers in Anderson Valley and New Mexico now create bubbles that compete on the world stage, while traditional European regions continue to innovate with modern techniques. Curious to explore the world of quality sparkling that doesn’t break the bank? Follow our expert tips and recommendations below.
Finding the best sparkling wines under $50 requires more than just selecting the most attractive bottle. Understanding production methods and stylistic differences can help lead you to the best value-driven bottle for your particular preferences.
Understand Labels and Production Methods
The production method used to make sparkling wine has a direct impact on both quality and price. For example, méthode traditionnelle (otherwise known as méthode champenoise) involves a labor-intensive process that incorporates inducing a secondary fermentation in bottle, which produces finer bubbles and more complex flavors. Charmat method wines, like most Prosecco, undergo secondary fermentation in tanks, creating fresher, fruitier profiles at lower prices.
To break it down further, Koblitz explains that traditional method wines require producing a regular still wine, bottling it under crown cap, and laying it down for several months as a secondary fermentation takes place, which makes the wine bubbly. “After fermentation is complete, the wine continues to age, often for years, on the old yeast cells—this is what gives the wine its bready, brioche notes,” she says.
When this period of aging is complete, the wine must be disgorged to remove those old yeast cells. “After this, the wine is often aged for a short term, a few months to a year, before the wine is for sale,” she says. On the other hand, Koblitz explains that the Charmat method (popular in Prosecco production) and forced carbonation method (popular in very inexpensive bubbly) are often less expensive because the production time and involved labor is considerably less. “In the Charmat method, the still wine is pumped into a tank that can withstand pressure, and the second fermentation happens in the tank,” she says. The wine is then bottled under pressure, and is a faster and easier method of production.
Know the Dryness / Sweetness Scale
Additionally, terms referencing sweetness levels in sparkling wine are a great indicator of how the wine in bottle will taste. The universal scale is as follows:
Brut Nature / Zero Dosage - 0-3 g/L of sugar
Extra Brut - 0-6 g/L of sugar
Brut - 0-12 g/L of sugar
Extra Dry - 12-17 g/L of sugar (yes—despite the name, Extra Dry is actually slightly sweeter than Brut!)
Dry - 17-31 g/L of sugar
Demi-Sec - 32-50 g/L of sugar
Doux - 50+ g/L of sugar
Proper Storage Is Key
Proper storage extends the life and quality of sparkling wines. With regards to temperature control, bottles should be stored between 45-50°F to preserve freshness. Additionally, bottles should be kept horizontally, so as to keep the corks moist and prevent oxidation, as well as in dark locations to avoid contact with light. Lastly, minimal vibration is also ideal, as constant movement can disturb sediment and affects aging.
Additionally, Koblitz notes that most sparkling wine does not need extensive aging once purchased. “Remember, by the time you buy a traditional method wine, the wine itself is already at least 2-5 years old,” she says, additionally stating that wines produced in other sparkling wine methods are designed to be fresh and crisp, so you'll want to drink those pretty quickly after purchase. “Some very high end Champagne can age for a very long time, but this is not the norm for sparkling wine,” she affirms.
Keep Your Collection Varied
Building a small collection of different styles ensures you always have the right bottle for any occasion. Mix crisp Proseccos for casual gatherings with more complex domestic sparklers for special celebrations. This variety, combined with smart shopping timing, creates a well-rounded sparkling wine selection that impresses guests without straining budgets. Not sure where to begin? Our expert team has five go-to bottles to get you started.
Domestic Bubbles Worth Discovering
The United States has emerged as a powerhouse for high-quality sparkling wine production, with regions from coast to coast crafting bottles that challenge the dominance of European classics. “Much of the sparkling wine made in the United States is made in the same method as Champagne, where the second fermentation occurs in the bottle,” Koblitz reveals, stating that as a result, many will be similar in style to much of the sparkling wine made in Europe.
“Additionally, buying a bottle made here, however, allows you to avoid import fees/tariffs, so you're often getting a better value.,” she says. Koblitz equally explains that Europe has strict laws in place about which grapes can be grown in which regions, so when you're shopping for wine from Champagne, Cava, Prosecco, etc, you're getting wine made from the same grapes (when comparing wines within the same region).
“On the contrary, the United States does not have laws like that, so you'll find some really unique sparkling wine made from just about any grape that is grown here,” she says, noting that many diverse and noteworthy examples—including sparkling Picpoul from Halter Ranch, sparkling rosé of Grenache from Amista, or sparkling Pinot Gris from Ricochet—are all available right here at Sommsation.
Amista Vineyards NV Blanc de Blanc Brut Sparkling Wine ($50.00)
Aromas of apple and pear notes lead to a bright, acid-forward palate with notes of citrus fruit, pear, brioche, and almond. Crafted entirely from organically-farmed Chardonnay, this exceptional bottle showcases the high potential for accessible, world-class wines from California’s Dry Creek Valley.
Michel-Schlumberger - Dry Creek Valley Wine Estate NV Sparkling Rosé ($50.00)
“The Schlumberger Sparkling Rosé is made from 65% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay using the traditional method,” Koblitz explains, stating that she particularly loves the wine’s vibrant red fruit flavors and versatility. “This wine would pair well with so many different types of foods, like lobster, mushroom risotto, charcuterie, or a bag of potato chips. It is also fantastic if enjoyed by itself, without food,” she says.
Second Line Wines NV Parasol Brut ($45)
A blend of 63% Chardonnay, 27% Pinot Noir, 8% Pinot Blanc, and 2% Pinot Gris, this crisp, fruit-forward wine has citrus notes along with baked brioche and ginger. “The Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris, while only making up 10% of the blend, adds an intriguing layer of complexity.” Koblitz says, stating that the price point is also “very good” for a traditional method wine.
Value-Driven Champions from Europe
European sparkling wine regions beyond Champagne have mastered the art of creating affordable bubbles without sacrificing quality. These producers leverage centuries of winemaking tradition while embracing modern efficiency to deliver exceptional value.
Marcalberto Winery Blanc de Blancs ($50.00)
Delicate and persistent perlage, the wine pours a bright straw-yellow color and shows exceptional golden highlights. Notes of toasted hazelnut and bread crust notes lead to an agile, vibrant finish. “Blanc de Blancs means the wine is made entirely from white grapes, in this case it's 100% Chardonnay,” says Koblitz, describing the wine as an absolute steal for its price.
“Alta Langa is a very up and coming region in Northern Italy for traditional method sparkling wine, and the wines often hit above their weight class—this wine included,”she says, describing it as very dry, light to medium-bodied, and incredibly fresh.
Ca' del Prete Rossoameta Pet Nat Rosato 2022 ($42.00)
Fresh aromatics of red berry, sage, and mint. The aromatics continue on the palate, leading to a light, refreshing finish. Luca does not own a press; all his wines are free run, unfined, and unfiltered, giving a pleasant cloudy haze that adds to the wine's mystique.
Above all, the journey through affordable sparkling wines proves that exceptional bubbles don't require breaking the bank—you simply need the right guidance to discover bottles that deliver both quality and value. Whether you're planning an intimate celebration or stocking up for spontaneous toasts, these selections prove that the $50-and-under category offers remarkable diversity and sophistication.
Ready to deepen your sparkling wine knowledge and discover even more hidden gems? Book a personalized wine tasting experience or explore curated wine selections where we connect you with expert sommeliers who share our passion for making exceptional wine accessible to everyone.
