Sparkling wine is becoming increasing popular in the UK, with sales up by 9% in the past year, new figures show.
More than 34 million gallons were sold in the financial year to March, up by 76% on five years ago, accountancy group UHY Hacker Young said.
Britons now have a taste for sparkling wines such as Italian Prosecco and Spanish Cava which are cheaper than Champagne, the report said.
It added that some bars and pubs now have Prosecco on tap.
James Simmonds of UHY Hacker Young said: “Some of the best premium products can hold their own against Champagne in the tasting stakes and there is a huge variety of great sparkling wines available at price points which are roughly similar to still wines, so there’s real strength in the market.
“English vineyards have established an impressive reputation at home and abroad for their fine sparkling wines, so this is a boon for the UK’s home-grown industry.”
The nation’s obsession with the sparkling drink has resulted in Prosecco tea bags, Prosecco festivals and even Prosecco nail polish becoming a reality - and, in the lead up to Christmas, the love affair shows no sign of stopping.
For those who are now wondering which is the cheapest type to buy throughout the festive season, a recent report has you covered. Money-saving app Vouchercloud said Lidl’s Allini Prosecco Frizzante Treviso is the biggest bargain to be had right now - a 750ml bottle costs £5.25.