Break out the Bubbles: NYE 2014
It's the final countdown for 2013! Whether you are ringing in the new year with friends and family at home or dressing up and dancing the night away, there is one thing you will definitely need - sparkling wine!
I will be giving some brief thoughts here, but for those looking for more details - the blog has covered sparkling wine in detail before here.
My philosophy on sparkling wine is straight forward - find a fresh, fun bottle at an affordable price. Sometimes it's a bit challenging, bargain prices for sparkling wine made in the traditional champagne style rarely go below $12-16 (most likely because the secondary fermentation process). But my go to wine will always be Cava. Cava is sparkling wine made in Spain. Another great option is Prosecco, a sparkler from Italy. Both of these styles are light and affordable.
Champagne (sparkling wine made in Champagne, France), on the other hand is more complex and expensive. Given the region's northern location, the grapes are picked with higher acidity producing the distinct taste. Champagne is made from a blend of three grapes Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. The traditional production method, or méthode champenoise, is highly regulated. Basically, it allows only two pressings of the grapes, a primary fermentation, blending, a secondary fermentation and finalization. Most champagnes are fermented in steel tanks. It's common characteristics include flavors or apple, citrus, hazelnnuts, toast or bread dough.
Whichever option you choose, one thing I hope you take away is that sparkling wine can be used for more than special occasions. Its high acidity pairs well with food. Many wine professionals even argue that it is the best option to pair with you - but I will leave that decision up to you!
Happy New Year's Eve and Cheers!