Prosecco, which is made from Prosecco grapes (duh), is typically more fizzy than French-style bubbly and is Italy's most popular sparkling wine. --- It's easy to love and also easy on the wallet; you can find great Prosecco for under $20. And, it's light and lively - the perfect wine to sip in warm weather on the patio. 

Dependable producers include Zardetto, Ruffino, Adami, Zonin, La Marca, Mionetto and Bisol.

For Champagne-style bubbly at non-Champagne prices, I also highly recommend the Northern Italy Trento DOC wines from Ferrari winery. These are complex, soundly-made sparklers that I suspect would fare well in blind tastings versus Champagne. Look especially for Ferrari Brut ($27), Ferrari Rosé ($37) and the particularly elegant Ferrari Perlé ($35). Finally, semi-sweet Asti Italian wines are fun and festive. Lately, I've really enjoyed the very affordable Ruffino Moscato d'Asti ($13).

Italian sparkling wines are especially good partners for most spring and summertime risotto preparations. Try it!