It’s been a weird year. Pop something weirder. The usual mix of grapes found in Champagne is Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, but in other parts of the world you can find sparkling wine made out of some really interesting grapes. The trick is that they all have lots of acidity, which is necessary for sparkling wines complexity and aging. 

• Sella & Mosca Torbato Brut: Chalky and acidic with lemon pith notes, would be great with shrimp cocktail or oysters. $18
• Monge Granon Clairette de Die “Equinoxe”: A touch of sweetness form the aromatic Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains (75%) and the local Clairette grape in the Rhône, this is crisp and citrusy with a hint of sour on finish and an aggressive mousse. Good with Gouda. $17
• Côté Mas Crémant de Limoux: Woolly, lemony blend of 60% Chardonnay, 20% Chenin Blanc, 10% Pinot Noir, 10% Mauzac from the Languedoc. Good with fontina. $19.99
• Rebouça Alvarinho Espumante 2016: Never tried sparkling Alvarinho (the Portuguese name for the Albariño grape)? You won’t be disappointed. Very refreshing lemon and white peach skin with an elegant bubble. $25