An Aperol Spritz calls for sparkling wine. (Blake Pope)

In our house, we always like to be prepared when a friend drops by and stays for a spur-of-the-moment cocktail. Lately, we’ve been drinking Aperol spritzes, but we’ve found ourselves without sparkling wine too many times. To stay spritz-ready, we asked local bar pros to recommend affordable sparkling wines that should stay stocked in our fridge.

Amanda Britton, Lincoln Street Kitchen & Cocktails
Simonet Blanc de Blancs Brut, $11
Britton calls this wine deliciously crisp, with a silky mouthfeel and mild acidity. “We grab a bottle from Rhino Market for cocktails or just to sip on,” she says. “It’s important to remember if it tastes good on its own, it’ll more than likely taste good in a cocktail.”

Justin Hazleton, Leah & Louise
La Marca Prosecco, $13
With a good effervescence, neutral taste, and omnipresence in the market, Lamarca is Hazelton’s first choice for a cocktail that needs a little pop.

Brian Lorusso, formerly of Dogwood Southern Table & Bar
Avissi Prosecco, $13
Lorusso’s selection is budget-friendly and pretty neutral—but if he wants to add a little sweetness to a cocktail, he goes for Cocchi Asti.

Bob Peters, Bob Peters Creative Cocktails & Consulting
La Marca Prosecco, $13
Peters also prefers Lamarca; it has a balance of sweetness and flavor, as well as bubbles that aren’t too sharp. You can use it in cocktails or, of course, to add some sparkle to your punch.

Blake Pope, Kindred and Hello, Sailor
M. Bonnamy Brut Cremant de Loire, $15
Super dry, crisp, and balanced, Pope calls this wine great on its own and in cocktails. “Crushes an Aperol spritz,” Pope adds. So do we, Blake.