A toast to a festive season is traditionally made with French Champagne, yet recently Italy's sparkling wines have been charming our senses with their enhanced quality - not just limited to the globally loved Prosecco.

In Italy, esteemed wineries from Franciacorta to Piedmont to Sicily, are dazzling wine enthusiasts with their refined sparkling offerings. Each region brings in their unique notes, favorably competing with the classic Champagne. Particularly noteworthy is the influx of top-tier Trento DOC wines from North Italy finding their way into our glasses. Here, we will guide you through some appealing choices from Italy to make your selection process smooth and delightful.

On your hunt for that perfect bottle to unfurl happiness at your gathering, consider these eight outstanding Italian sparkling wines.

Adami, founded by Abele Adami in 1920, remains a revered name in the Prosecco region. It's acclaimed largely for the unique, single-vineyard wines, but its fundamental, citrus-infused cuvée shouldn't be overlooked; it's a genuine delight at a surprisingly reasonable price.

You can't have a discussion on Prosecco without mentioning Mionetto. Recognized globally for its distinctive orange-labeled primary offering, the cuvée from vineyards around Valdobbiadene ups the ante, showcasing a blend of refinement and complexity.

Expect a crisp, refreshing taste with a subtle hint of almond coupled with orchard-fruit undertones from the superior sparkling wines of the Prosecco region's heart.

Next, journey to the undulating hills of Piedmont’s Alta Langa. The region has been known for its sparkling wines since the 19th century. The Pinot Noir–led cuvée, maturing on lees for three years, extends a toasty, savory depth.

Trentino's sparkling wines from the northern regions of Italy retain their quality, despite not being widely acknowledged in the U.S. However, the paradigm is changing thanks to increased import of various brands. The leading wine from the area, with its delicate lemon tinge, makes for an elegant introduction to the region's offerings.

Contratto, an exclusive wine from Alta Langa, is noted for its creamy texture and golden hue. Exceptional sparkling wines have been produced here since the late 1800s, with current owner Giorgio Rivetti also channeling his passion into outstanding Barbaresco at his La Spinetta winery.

Franciacorta has emerged as Italy’s most prestigious region for sparkling wine. Berlucchi, established by Franco Ziliani, the inventor of Franciacorta, is still among the best suppliers, with this delightful, multi-layered rosé with a hint of berry.

Italian sparkling wine can't be fully appreciated without experiencing a product of Ca’ del Bosco’s Maurizio Zanella. He is one of the most fascinating characters in Franciacorta and his cuvée is aromatic and luxurious with brioche and apricot notes, ideal for ushering in a new year.