There’s something about the Fourth of July that calls for a little extra sparkle. Between backyard barbecues, glowing fire pits, and of course the big fireworks finale, it’s the ultimate summer celebration of freedom and festivity. And while beer might be the go-to for many, there’s a strong case to be made for bringing out the bubbly. Sparkling wine especially when poured into the right glass—can turn any Independence Day gathering into something a little more chic, a little more celebratory, and a whole lot more memorable.

July 4 marks the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and Americans have celebrated it in style for nearly 250 years. From parades and cookouts to pool parties and late-night firework shows, the day is filled with red, white, and blue everything. It’s patriotic, it’s nostalgic, and it’s a time to gather friends and family around great food and drinks. So why not toast with something that fizzes and glows just as brightly as the fireworks overhead?

Choosing the Right Sparkling Wine

Champagne and sparkling wines are the perfect way to elevate your July 4 party without feeling stuffy or overly formal. True Champagne comes from the Champagne region of France, but you’ll find delicious sparkling options from Italy (like Prosecco), Spain (Cava), California, and beyond. Each has its own character—Champagne is often yeasty and complex with fine bubbles, while Prosecco is fruitier and a little lighter. Cava offers a great in-between, with crispness and good value. And then there are domestic sparklers from American vineyards, which are having a real moment with beautifully made bottles that rival European classics.

Exclusiva 8.5 oz. Prosecco or Sparkling Wine Flute

How to Chill and Serve Sparkling Wine

If you’re hosting, you’ll want to serve sparkling wine the right way to get the best taste and experience. Chill your bottles thoroughly—ideally between 45 and 50°F. Too cold and the flavors get muted; too warm and the bubbles go flat faster. Store your bottles in the fridge for a few hours before guests arrive, or use an ice bucket with half water and half ice to get them chilled quickly. When it’s time to pour, avoid shaking or popping the cork dramatically (save the explosions for the fireworks). Instead, twist the bottle, not the cork, and gently ease it out with a soft hiss.

The Best Glasses for Your Bubbly

Now let’s talk glassware, because the right flute (or coupe) makes all the difference. Traditional flute glasses—tall and narrow—are ideal for preserving bubbles. They keep the wine fizzing longer and help concentrate the aromas near your nose with every sip.

Electra 8 oz. Sparkling Wine Flute

For something more dramatic and vintage-inspired, coupe glasses are a stylish alternative. They’re shallower and wider, which means the bubbles don’t last quite as long, but they do make a beautiful statement for a more glamorous backyard soirée.

Bartender 8.5 oz. Novecento Coupe

If you're aiming for versatility, consider a tulip-shaped sparkling wine glass. These glasses are slightly wider than a flute, with a gentle taper at the top. That shape helps capture the aromas while giving the wine more room to breathe—perfect for Champagnes and vintage bottles that deserve a little more attention.

Riserva 13.25 oz. Sparkling Wine Glass

Pairing Bubbles with Summer Bites

For food pairings, sparkling wine is incredibly flexible. It’s bright, refreshing, and its acidity cuts beautifully through salty and rich summer foods. Fried chicken, grilled shrimp, hot dogs with mustard, potato salad, and even chips with guacamole all go brilliantly with bubbly. And when the dessert comes out—maybe strawberry shortcake, peach cobbler, or flag-themed cupcakes—pour one last round as the sky lights up with red, white, and gold bursts. 

There’s a reason we reach for Champagne when we celebrate big moments graduations, weddings, promotions. The Fourth of July, with all its history and heart, deserves the same toast. So this year, whether you’re dancing barefoot on the lawn or watching fireworks from a city rooftop, raise your flute high and sip something that sparkles. Freedom, after all, is worth celebrating in style.