It’s the season to pop sparking wine, from office parties to Christmas lunches and everything in between. And while Champagne has been the traditional go-to for special celebrations, Crémant is snapping at its heels this festive season.

Crémant is is the name for sparkling wines from France and Luxembourg that are made with the same technique as Champagne, but from outside the Champagne region.

According to Wine Searcher more Crémant bottles are now being sold than Champagne in French supermarkets and hypermarkets,

“Crémant exports are riding on a wave and now account for 40% of sales,” Wine Searcher reports.

“Made in the same traditional method as Champagne, with strict production rules, the rise of Crémant has much to do with the booming cost of living, growth of quality production in relation to price, and changing consumer habits. Indeed, why buy increasingly expensive Champagne when you can buy Crémant d’Alsace of similar, if not better quality, often sold at a lower price?

“The growing prominence of Crémant is of historic proportions, even if Champagne sales continue to generate far greater value. There is no end in sight to the current thirst for Crémant, a category which has grown by 19% over the past five years. In France last year, in supermarkets and hypermarkets, Champagne sold 29.7 million bottles versus Crémant sales of 29.6 million bottles, according to retail analysts Circana and, this year, Crémant sales have increased further as Champagne sales drop.”

French producers are hoping Australians will also embrace the trend this summer. Sieur d’Arques Sparkling Rosé ($24.99), for example, is a beautiful salmon pink in colour, with a delicate mousse, lingering bubbles and subtle notes of nectarine that evolve into grilled and brioche aromas.

Sieur D’Arques spokesperson Andrew Benallack said: “While Champagne holds a timeless appeal, Australian consumers are becoming increasingly curious about the broader world of French sparkling wines.

“Regions outside of Champagne, like the birthplace of sparkling wine – Limoux, are gaining recognition for their exceptional quality and unique styles. This evolving perception reflects Australia’s growing appreciation for diversity and craftsmanship in sparkling wines.”

Benallack said education is key to increasing awareness of the broad variety of French sparkling wines.

“We’re actively engaging with Australian consumers through collaboration with fine dining establishments such as Martina Rose Bay and Entrecôte Melbourne,” he said. “Sieur d’Arques also invests in storytelling, sharing the heritage, techniques, and character of our wines. Digital platforms and events have been pivotal in showcasing the versatility and elegance of French sparkling wines from regions like Limoux.”

He said Sieur d’Arques Sparkling Rosé offers a perfect balance of vibrant fruit flavours and crisp acidity, which resonates with Australian tastes.

“Its delicate notes of red berries and floral aromas pair beautifully with the lighter, fresher cuisine Australians often enjoy, particularly during summer,” he noted. “Plus, the wine’s elegance and versatility make it ideal for celebrations or casual moments alike.”

Loire Wines collaborates with Dan Murphy’s and BWS to elevate Crémant

Loire Wines is collaborating with Dan Murphy’s and BWS to bring consumers a selection of exclusive in-store tastings throughout December, with more than 60 participating stores in NSW and Victoria.

Among the wines highlighted are Crémants from the Loire, including Crémant de Loire, Veuve Amiot Brut ($18.99). Offering a soft, fruity palate, this sparkling wine is a great option for matching with anything from a light salad to yakitori skewers or an exotic fruit dessert.

Also on offer is Crémant de Loire, Gratien & Meyer ($22.99), a subtle, light sparkling wine presenting fresh notes of apple, green pear, and white blossom. The gentle bubbles on the palate make it a great match for fresh seafood.

Referred to as the Garden of France, Loire is known for its magnificent chateaux, rich history and three distinct wine regions – Pays Nantais, Anjou-Saumur, Touraine – each with its own characteristics of grapes, appellations and styles.

Loire is France’s leading producer of white wines and ranks second for rosés and sparkling wines. Australia is the Loire
Valley’s seventh export market in volume with 10,402 hectolitres exported in 2023, valued at €4.7 billion.

Discover all Loire Wines available at Dan Murphy’s here.