This celebratory drink goes by many names... Champagne, bubbly, sparkling wine, champs, or bubbles. While California sparkling wine can’t technically be called Champagne (that honor belongs to France’s Champagne region), many of our local bottles are crafted using the very same méthode traditionnelle, the meticulous, time-intensive process responsible for those festive bubbles we all love.
Across our Valley, more than 30 producers are quietly, and sometimes not so quietly, making exceptional sparkling wine. Some release bubbles seasonally, others exclusively for wine club members, and a growing number are producing sparkling wines available only online. Translation: these bottles can feel a little elusive, which makes discovering them extra fun.
For our Love Local issue, we’ve curated eight standout sparkling wines inspired by our region’s creativity, craftsmanship, and sense of celebration. From polished classics to playful, unexpected pours, there’s a bottle for every occasion, budget, and love story. And if you don’t see bubbles on a tasting menu? Don’t be shy—ask. You never know what might be chilling behind the scenes.
Traditional Method Cuvée
Classic, dry bubbles with citrus and brioche. Elegant and timeless; ideal for milestone moments.
Riverbench | Cork Jumper Cuvée | ~$55
Blanc de Blanc
Crisp Chardonnay-driven bubbles with green apple and minerality. Bright, refined, and perfect for aperitifs or elegant evenings in.
Roblar | Blanc de Blanc | $50
Brut Nature Sparkling Rosé
Estate Grenache Noir, zero dosage. Bone-dry and powerful—a collector’s bottle for unforgettable moments.
Saarloos & Sons | Loos Bubbles | $188
Blanc de Noirs
Pinot-driven sparkling wine offering red-fruit nuance and texture. Plush and romantic.
Brick Barn Wine Estate | 2022 SBC Blanc de Noirs | $52
Sparkling Rosé
Traditional method rosé with lifted berry notes and vibrant acidity. Joyful, accessible, and perfect for Galentine’s.
Folded Hills | Sparkling Lilly Rosé | $78
Sparkling Rosé
Méthode Champenoise Grenache rosé with vibrant strawberry and citrus notes. Fresh and expressive.
Demetria Estate | 2023 Sparkling Rosé | $65
Pét-Nat Bubbles
Natural sparkling Chardonnay pét-nat with lively effervescence and citrus blossom. Joyful bubbles for a casual cheers.
Dreamcôte | Blanc-au-Blanc Bubbles | $38
Blanc de Noirs
Traditional-method Pinot Noir bubbles with citrus, minerality, and fine mousse. Elegant, bright, and a regional classic.
Fess Parker Winery | 2022 Fesstivity Blanc de Noirs | $60
Sara DeMarcus
Thirsty Mom, Wife, & Entrepreneur
Looking for bubbles? Pop the Question. You may need to ask nicely. Many Santa Ynez Valley wineries make sparkling wine in small batches, offer it seasonally, or save it for wine club insiders. That means it doesn’t always appear on the tasting list. Channel your inner romantic, pop the question, and see what’s hiding on ice. Around here, some of the best bubbles are off-menu.