Need a fresh party drink? Here's why Cremant is the new Prosecco ?

Champagne's affordable cousin is our new favourite drink (and yes, there's a £7 one in Lidl)

Feeling like you've reached peak Prosecco? Why not give Cremant a spin. Dryer than Prosecco and cheaper than Champagne, sales of the French sparkling wine are booming this party season. Here's why we're all over it.

What is Cremant?

Cremant is the name for a group of sparkling wines that are made in France using the same methods as Champagne, including the second bottle fermentation process. Like Champagne, Cremant tends to have those deliciously biscuity notes that stop it from tasting too sweet.

There are eight different regions where the drink is made (featuring Loire, Bordeaux and Alsace) and the list of rules that govern its production is nearly as strict as those of Champagne. In other words, you can get some damn good bubbles for a fraction of the price.

Not sure where to start? We asked wine and spirits guru Genevieve Conway of Pinot Moi to taste-test her way to the top five.

It's a tough old job...

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Cremant de Bourgogne* (£7.99, Lidl)

'The creamy Champagne-style flavour of this award-winning version will go brilliantly with Christmas canapés, particularly pastry ones like cheese and prosciutto palmiers (YUM)'

*This sparkling wine has also been ranked by experts as one of the best in the world

Cremant de Loire (£9.00, Sainsburys)

'This has really soft bubbles, it’s amazing value and it’s totally delicious. If you're a Sauvignon Blanc fan, this fizz is for you.'

Cremant de Limoux Rosé (£11, Tesco) 

'A beautiful and fruity sparkling Rosé from the South of France, this is a great way to continue your summer Rosé obsession into the festive period.'

Cremant de Loire (£12.99, Waitrose)

'Zesty and fresh, this one will go brilliantly with smoked salmon on Christmas morning. Ideal if you're a fan of Chablis.'

Cremant de Jura (£23.00, Borough Wines)

'With buttery, honey tones, this opulent and oh-so sophisticated little number will impress even the most diehard Champagne fan.'

More of a cocktail fan? Add the drink to a classic festive cocktail: The French 75

45ml Gin (my favourite is Little Bird Gin)

5ml of sugar syrup

10ml of fresh lemon juice

Instructions: Shake with ice, strain into a flute glass and top with Crèmant - Voila! Or Joyeux Noël...