Makes 6 servings

This dish elicits more oohs and ahhs than fireworks in July and is perfect for a celebratory brunch or even a light summer dessert. Champagne flutes make the best presentation but martini glasses or wineglasses will also work. Garnish with a sprig of mint or an orange twist and you’ll get full Martha points.

1. Quarter strawberries (if using) and toss with other berries in a bowl. Fill glasses three-quarters full with berries and top with sparkling wine. Serve with tall parfait spoons or cocktail forks.

Sparkling Wine 101

Champagne is from the Champagne region of France. Sparkling wine from anywhere else in the world can’t use the name. Instead, it’s called prosecco in Italy, cava in Spain, sekt in Germany and in the New World we call it what it is: sparkling wine. Sparkling wine is made when a little bit of sugar and yeast are left in the wine or added to the bottle before corking. The yeast ferments with the sugar and creates CO₂ bubbles that turn a normal bottle of wine into something of a weapon. Good times!