The holiday season is all about indulging in the good things life has to offer.
With parties and invitations galore, one is either entertaining guests or being entertained. At this time of the year, wine and champagne flow freely as people look to gift the same to family and friends.
Moreover, the New Year's celebration seems incomplete without popping open a bottle of bubbly to commemorate the onset of all things good.
While Dom Perignon may be the ultimate for Champagne lovers, those whose pockets don't permit such indulgence need not despair as there are plenty of less-luxe options. To spread some New Year cheer, here are some of the best Champagnes and sparkling wines.
Proseccos are good alternative for individuals who like sparkling wine. They are not only easy on the palate, but also on the wallet! Some of the Prosecco's which we recommend are the Cupcake Prosecco, which is quite light and refreshing. It comes in plenty of flavors like green melon, citrus acidity and ripe peaches and costs around $12.
If you like fruity and floral wines that have a creamy touch, then the Zardetto Prosecco is for you. Those who prefer a full-flavored wine can opt for Adami Prosecco. The connoisseurs can indulge in Jacquesson Cuvee 737 Extra Brutdenotes, a dry but well-balanced wine.
For those who prefer Champagne, then sip on Ruinart Blanc de Blanc, which has an almond flavor intertwined with green apple, lime blossoms and pineapple. For lush champagne lovers, the Cristal is a good pick as it has plenty of bubbles and pear, green apple, citrus and peach flavors.
"At the turn of midnight, New Year's Eve, you don't want to be singing Ol'Langsynen with an expensive Champagne being carelessly flung around. However, you do want to think that you are drinking true Champagne. Well, there is one Cava that hits the jackpot. It is Montsarra at approximately $16 a bottle; you cannot go wrong with this wine," said Bartholomew Broadbent, CEO of Broadbent Selections in San Francisco.
The best way to serve sparkling wine and champagne is to refrigerate it for an hour before it is served. While champagne flutes add to the appeal, it is not necessary to serve the bubbly in these.
A note of caution: be careful when uncorking the bottle. You don't want to blind anyone. Happy New Year!
