Nothing says “Celebration” like a bottle of sparkling wine. Here are three great picks for your New Year’s (or any other) celebration:
Marques de Monistrol Brut Cava - $10
Cava is Spain’s answer to Champagne, and one of the best values among Traditional Method sparklers. This one has great balance, with creamy long lasting bubbles.
Louis Bouillot Cremant de Bourgogne Rose - $17
If you like a fruitier style, try a rose sparkler. While most are not sweet, the extra flavors of cherries, strawberries, and other fruits give them a softness and richness not found in golden sparkling wines. In tastings, the Louis Bouillot Rose has out-scored many roses from Champagne, which usually cost 3-4 times as much.
Pommery Brut Royal Champagne - $40
To many people, any sparkling wine is a “champagne”. But true Champagne comes from the Champagne area of France, and nowhere else.
Pommery, better known in Europe than in the US, is one of the best. Nice fruit, with enough mineral and toastiness to balance it out without making it harsh. If you want to have something really special without spending $100 or more, Pommery Brut Royal is your best bet.
