Sparkling wine and seafood is a timeless pairing – but which bottle truly elevates the dish? This guide will help you choose the perfect sparkling wine for prawns, lobster, and other delicate shellfish.
When serving prawns or lobster, you want a wine that enhances the gentle saltiness and subtle sweetness of the shellfish. Sparkling wine is a classic choice – but not all bubbles are created equal. Depending on the preparation, accompaniments and the mood, different styles of sparkling wine will suit best.
1. Simple prawns + dry brut = fresh elegance
When prawns are served with lemon, aioli or just as they are, a dry sparkling wine is the best choice. Opt for a Brut or Extra Brut – the dry style with bright acidity brings out the clean flavour of the prawns and balances the saltiness beautifully.
Tips:
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Crémant de Loire
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Cava Brut Nature
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Champagne (non-vintage)
2. Lobster with butter = rounder bubbles
If the lobster is grilled, gratinéed or served with butter sauce or browned butter, go for a more full-bodied sparkling wine. A Champagne with oak ageing or a vintage cava adds complexity and richness.
Tips:
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Champagne Blanc de Blancs
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Franciacorta
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English sparkling wine (e.g. from Sussex or Kent)
3. Rosé bubbles for seafood platters
A colourful seafood platter with prawns, crayfish, mussels and langoustines becomes even more festive with rosé Champagne or rosé Cava. The fruity notes pair well with saltiness and any spicy elements.
Tips:
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Rosé Cava
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Rosé Champagne
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Sparkling rosé from South Africa or Australia
4. Alcohol-free with acidity
For a non-alcoholic option that still has structure and freshness, choose an alcohol-free Blanc de Blancs or a dry sparkling apple cider. These bring elegance and are perfect with seafood.
Tips:
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Oddbird Blanc de Blancs
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Richard Juhlin Non-Alcoholic Sparkling
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Locally produced sparkling apple must
Quick tips to keep in mind:
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Avoid sweetness – sweet wines can overpower the subtle flavours of seafood.
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Freshness is key – choose wines with high acidity and brightness.
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Match intensity – light wines for light dishes, fuller wines for richer preparations.
With the right sparkling wine next to lobster or prawns, the whole experience is elevated – whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner. Let the bubbles set the tone for a meal filled with elegance and balance.
