CHAMPAGNE is synonymous with top quality sparkling wine, but today I intend to prove that there are plenty of other countries and producers who do fizz just as well as the Champenois.

Sparkling wine falls into two broad categories; the Champagne clones - Champagne in all but name - and the rest. The latter broad category covers all sparkling wines that are uniquely individual and carry a lot of their character from the grape varieties and their country of origin; think Prosecco or Cava.

The producers of worldwide sparkling wines make their wines either in line with Champagne's traditional method, - a secondary fermentation and ageing in bottle - or via the Charmat or tank method. This involves the secondary fermentation being carried out in bulk before bottling. Here are a few recommendations to show what the rest of the world can do!

1 Nyetimber Classic Cuvée - £27.50 The gold standard of English sparkling wine. Classic Cuvée is the signature style from Nyetimber. Has aromas of peaches and apricots with a hint of ginger and vanilla. The palate is intensely flavoursome and delicate bubbles fill the mouth. Flavours of roasted almonds and baked peach linger on a long and fresh finish.

2 Vina Calappiano Prosecco DOC Extra Dry - £10.95 The Sensi family has been making wine in Tuscany since 1890. In 1995 they purchased the fifteenth century Villa Calappiano property and vineyards, located close to the town of Vinci. This wine is marvellously floral on the nose, with distinct fruity nuances of apple and white peach. Fresh, clean flavour, with a perfect balance between acidity and sweetness. A persistent, soft, mouth filling mousse.