By Liz Miller, West End Wine Manager
In the same way that a happy Winter accident turned a bottle of slow fermenting plonk into what we now know as Champagne, our opportunity to sparkle fast approaches us with the new year. The superstitious amongst us may believe that their beverage of choice will reflect the year ahead, and savor the moment. Others are just thrill seekers, propelling themselves into 2025 - much like the cork from their cheap bubbles eagerly propels itself into the air. Even though we’re taught as wine professionals not to let the gasses escape too quickly, we all love a festive pop of the bottle - as it signifies that a celebration is ahead of us. So whether you’re a Champagne purist, happily sober, or prefer a greener buzz - we've got you covered for your grand entrance into the new year.
For the Champagne purist:
Champagne Doyard “Vendémiaire” 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay) 77.99
I attended my first Champagne seminar this year, and tasted some incredible Champagnes side by side - it was an eye opening experience to say the least. Charles Doyard uses minimal intervention and organic farming practices in the vineyard, something quite rare in Champagne. He also stopped using cold-stabilization - preferring instead to simply leave the wines in the coldest portion of his cellar. This part is NSFW, so read on if you dare… When taking notes on this Champagne, all I wrote in the tasting portion was, “orgasmic”. Vendémiaire is delicate and nutty, with razor sharp focus and unwavering grace. So if you want a bubble that's, say better than sex, go into the new year with this absolute banger - trust me, you won’t regret it!
For the Champagne lover on a budget:
Parigot & Richard “Origines” Crémant de Bourgogne (40% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay, 20% Aligoté) 34.99
Y’all… When I tell you that this crémant slaps, I mean it. A bottle of crémant is about as close to a bottle of Champagne as you can get outside the famed sparkling wine region - this one from Parigot & Richard has all the quality and charm of some of the best. Notes of lemon zest, ripe golden apple, brioche, and wet-rock minerality lead to a creamy, salty, and lively finish.
For the girls that just wanna have fun:
Viarae Prosecco (100% Glera) 18.99
Viarae is a Prosecco from Issa Rae, the celebrated creator of the television series, Insecure. Perfect for those candid, unfiltered moments with friends - it’s an any occasion kind of vibe. More than just a fresh take on Italian wine, this crisp, bright, and lively blend represents the freedom to let loose and be authentic. The grapes are grown by a wine cooperative in Italy, along the Piave river in Treviso, under the glowing sun of the Northern Italian sky. This vibrant Prosecco offers aromas of Madonna lily and juicy stone fruit, with just a wiper of sweetness on the palate.
For the die hard red fans:
Lini 910 Lambrusca Rosso (85% Lambrusco Salamino, 15% Ancellotta) 20.99
I’ve come to the realization that there are a good amount of people that don’t realize that there are red bubbles. Italy’s Lambrusco is the most iconic of the bunch, and is something that I love exposing “sweet” red wine drinkers to. They are usually velvety in texture, typically off-dry, fun, and generally a better quality than your typical sweet red plonk. This Lambrusco offers rich flavors that are vibrant and balanced, for something a little more celebratory.
For a chill night:
Five Flowers “Phosecco” Original (35mg Delta-9 THC) 34.99
Five Flowers “Phosecco” offers a subtle high with a pleasantly mellow sensation that enhances your mood and relaxation - all without impairing your senses or focus. This non-alcoholic, hemp-infused sparkling “wine” brings a whole new vibe to your celebrations. With each 750ml bottle packing 35mg of THC, Phosecco delivers a crisp, effervescent sip with a kick. It's got all the refreshing sparkle and floral notes of a Prosecco, but with a twist that'll keep the party going.
For all of the bubbles with none of the buzz:
Château del ISH sparkling white (dealcoholized Pinot Blanc & Silvaner) 24.99
Sometimes N/A wines can fall flat in the texture category, but the added Co2 brings these wines back to life for a “just like the real thing” experience but without the next day headache or regret. Ish’s sparkling white offers a honey-forward nose with notes of citrus and ripe stone fruits. It’s considered a demi-sec, medium sweet beverage with a wonderfully refreshing acidity.
