Sparkling wine is the mood for this book — light, festive, a little flirty, and guaranteed to lift your spirits. Just like Kate’s twelve holiday dates, every glass of bubbles brings a hit of fun and possibility, the kind that makes even a chaotic season feel a little more magical.

Bubbles are also the ultimate low-stress pour: no decanting, no overthinking, just pop, sip, enjoy. And during the busiest, most glitter-covered time of year? That ease is everything.

So grab your favorite sparkling wine, settle in, and let the fizz match the festive charm of this delightful holiday rom-com. Cheers to joy, meet-cutes, and stories that sparkle.

A Quick + Easy Guide to Sparkling Wine

(aka: what to grab, how it tastes, and what you’ll spend)

Champagne (France)
Champagne is the GOAT, but for good reason. Champagne is usually rich, toasty, and elegant, with tiny bubbles that feel super smooth and creamy. It often smells like a baked apple pie, with notes of lemon, apple, and baked bread. It’s also the priciest, typically starting around $40–$50, because it’s made with extra care, patience and it comes in limited supply.

Prosecco (Italy)
Hailing from northeast Italy, Prosecco is our bright, friendly, easy-sipping sparkler. Prosecco is usually lighter, fruitier, and more playful, as well as a teeny bit sweet! This wine is all about pear, peach, and a little floral sweetness. The bubbles are softer and frothier, and the price is super approachable, often $12–$20. Perfect for casual celebrations or weeknight fun. If you’re making mimosas or bellinis, this is your wine!

Cava (Spain)
Cava is the best value in sparkling wine, hands down. Cava is made more like Champagne but costs a fraction of the price ($12–$25). It’s crisp, dry, and zippy, with flavors of citrus, fresh herbs, and a subtle savory note. Great bubbles, great structure, not a great hit to your wallet. Cava is always my go-to for something fun that can be sipped on its own, or as part of a meal, and I’m NEVER afraid to bring it to a party. My favorite? Pares Balta’s Historic.

American Sparkling Wine
This category is a choose-your-own-adventure. California, Oregon, and New York make incredible sparklers that often taste like more affordable Champagne (bright, balanced, and creamy, but definitely more fruity) and can range from $18–$100. You’ll find everything from lean and citrusy to round and fruity, depending on the producer. My favorite splurge? Haliotide from my friend Nicole Bertotti Pope. Favorite grocery store grab? Schramsberg or Chandon, two quintessential California producers.