Spark up your night!
If you want to celebrate in style, and without breaking the bank, you’re at the right place, my wine loving compadre.
Sparkling wine is hands-down my favorite style of wine, and I reach for it whether there is something to celebrate or not! A dead man once said “Always carry Champagne, in victory you deserve it, and in defeat, you need it”! I say - it’s Tuesday, shall we drink Champagne? And the answer is always a resounding “YES!”. With the upcoming New Year’s Eve celebrations, I want to provide you, thirsty souls, with some celebratory options for bubbly, as not everyone is as keen on Champagne as I am. (Bless your souls)
Champagne - you’ve seen the meme - it’s only from the Champagne region of France, the epitome of class and high-life (apart from Miller High Life, which is also a magnificent celebratory beverage). Made by using the traditional method, meaning the second fermentation that gives it the sparkle happened in the same bottle you are holding! Super cool and delicious, also translating into a luxury price point, which we don’t love as much. If you want to go all-out and you’re ballin’ this holiday season (you go, Glen Coco!), go with the classics like Krug or Dom Ruinart. If you want to ball on a budget, look for the non-vintage house style wines from Bollinger or Lanson. Always delivering at an affordable price point! And Bolli is James Bond’s favorite Champagne, so you can’t go wrong!
Franciacorta - from the same region as Armani and Dolce&Gabbana hails an Italian response to Champagne, made in the same method and often with the same grapes, but without the prohibitive price tag! My suggestion would be to seek out Ferghettina for gorgeous aromas and texture that you can often score under $40! You can also find premium examples of the style, such as the lovely Annamaria Clementi from Ca’ del Bosco, which can go head to head with high-end Champagne. Worth a try!
Cap Classique - if you are looking for riper style of traditional method bubbly, but you’re an Aquarius and love to think outside of the box, look no further - South African Cap Classique delivers fruit forward, punchy, rustic style that is easy to love! Look for Graham Beck for a budget friendly finds, or for Babylonstoren, if you want to support women winemakers! Totally worth exploring and supporting classic styles from emerging regions! Be edgy!
Prosecco - whether it’s brunch, mimosas, or a casual Monday, Prosecco is always game. Easy-drinking, fruity, floral, and always down to party! The least expensive option will be a crowd pleaser for all casual wine drinkers. There is a large quality spread though, so look for Prosecco DOC or Conegliano Valdobbiadene on the label to ensure robust flavor profile! Unless you don’t care, then grab the bottom shelf, cheap option, and ho to town!
Pét-Nat - an interesting bubbly alternative gaining traction in the United States, petillant naturel may not be everyone’s cup o’booze, BUT! It is a cool option to bring to your shaman cousin’s shabang or your Burning Man loving neighbor’s soiree. Pet-nats have a lower degree of carbonation and can retain some sediment adding to complexity. Some of my favorites come out of California from Cruse Wines. They are beautifully made, but they do carry a premium price tag. Moussamoussettes is one of my favorite French producer that is cleaner than your OCD auntie’s kitchen counter. Delicious and affordable! We love to hear it!
Cider! - you didn’t think of that, did you!? For those craving some funk and sugar, one of my favorites is Le Pere Jules Normandy apple cider. So fun and delightful! Be warned, this cider is certainly more on the rustic side, so if you like more classic, less horse-y and dry styles, choose a different option!
Needless to say, there are so many sparkling options to please every palate and fit every budget! Very few things are better than the sound of a popping cork and a clean slate of a New Year, so enjoy, be safe, and hit me up with any wine questions you may have!
xoxo
Wine Witch
