Sparkling Wine Explained: What Brut, Extra Dry & More Really Mean

Brut, Extra Dry & Co - What the Terms Really Mean

You’ve probably seen terms like “Brut,” “Extra Dry,” or even “Demi-Sec” on a sparkling wine label. It all sounds a bit dry—but what does it actually mean? We explain why “Brut” and “Extra Dry” often cause confusion, and reveal exactly how much sugar ends up in your glass.

The Truth about "Brut" and "Extra Dry"

Here’s a surprise: “Extra Dry” sounds as if the sparkling wine is particularly dry—but it actually contains more sugar than a classic “Brut.” It may sound paradoxical, but it’s true! The reason lies in history: sparkling wines used to be much sweeter, so “Extra Dry” was once considered especially dry. Today, the situation is reversed.

The Most Important Categories at a Glance

Here are the most common terms for sparkling wine - from the driest to the sweetest, including the sugar content per litre:

• Brut Nature: 0-3 g/l residual sugar
  Pure and clear - nothing but pure fruit in the glass. For fans of truly dry wines.
• Extra Brut: 0-6 g/l residual sugar
  Still very dry, but with a tiny pinch more roundness.
• Brut: 6-12 g/l residual sugar
  The most popular category. Beautifully dry, lively and balanced - always good!
• Extra Dry: 12-17 g/l residual sugar
  Sounds dry, but tastes much fruitier and sweeter than "Brut". Particularly popular with Prosecco, for example.
• Dry: 17-32 g/l residual sugar
  Gentle and soft on the palate. For those who like it a little sweeter, this is the right choice.
• Demi-Sec: 32-50 g/l residual sugar
  For sweet enjoyment! Perfect with dessert or for sparkling, sweet moments.
• Sweet / Sec: over 50 g/l residual sugar
  The absolute sweetness - ideal for those who truly enjoy a full-bodied taste.

What Does This Mean for Your Enjoyment?

The choice of sparkling wine depends entirely on how dry or sweet you prefer it—and, of course, what you plan to pair it with. Brut and Extra Brut are always a safe choice for those seeking freshness and elegance in the glass. If you prefer something fruitier and a little more approachable, Extra Dry or Dry is the way to go.

For special occasions—or as a pairing with desserts and sweet treats—Demi-Sec and Sweet are ideal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles to discover your personal favourite!

Our Tip: Taste, Discover and Enjoy!

Sparkling wine is all about variety—and sometimes the category you least expect will surprise you. Try different styles and discover the ones you enjoy most.