The Top Bottles of Bubbly to Pop this New Year’s Eve
A sommelier's guide to the best bottles of bubbly to pop
Sparkling wine is not just for the holidays, but there is no doubt it’s become the official beverage to ring in the New Year! To help us comb through the clutter of which bottles to pop, we tapped Kat Hawkins, Wine Director, Miru and Tre Dita at The St. Regis Chicago to share her favorites. From value-driven options to a unique pick from Champagne and even sparkling sake, here are Kat’s picks for bottles of bubbly perfect for any occasion.
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Best Value Sparkling: Italian Bubbles
Kat’s Recommendation: Ca’ del Bosco Franciacorta: $34.99, plus tax (Tre Dita)
Ca’ del Bosco Franciacorta is a premium Italian sparkling wine renowned for its elegance and craftsmanship. Produced in Lombardy using the traditional method, it rivals Champagne in quality. Its refined balance of acidity and fruit flavors makes it versatile for pairing with various cuisines. The meticulous vineyard practices and aging process create wines with complexity, finesse, and depth. Ca’ del Bosco’s dedication to sustainability further enhances its reputation, making it a standout choice for wine enthusiasts and novices alike.
Fun and Unique Offering for the Holidays: Sparkling Sake
Kat’s Recommendation: Masumi “Grand Prix”, Sparkling Sake, Nagano, Japan: $129.99 plus tax (Miru)
…This isn’t wine. That’s the point! For those who are adventurous and want to try something brand new, Sparkling Sake fits the bill. Bottle-fermented like sparkling wine, Masumi Sparkling combines fine bubbles and crisp acidity with the mild sweetness and deep umami of sake. The rice is polished to 55% and is considered a Junmai Ginjo style of sake. A fun and unique offering for a new experience this holiday season.
Classic Champagnes That Won’t Break the Bank
Kat’s Recommendation: Champagne Collet, “Brut Rosé, NV: Retails for $54.99, plus tax (Miru)
If a little more depth and texture is your style, then the “Brut Rosé” from Champagne Collet is a great value. Finding true Champagne of this quality at this price point is rare. The dominant portion of the blend is made from the red grapes Pinot Noir and Meunier and shows a richness that pairs well with fish, meat, and celebration.
Classic Champagne: Baller Status
Kat’s Recommendation: Kat’s Recommendation: Louis Roederer, Brut, “Cristal”, 2013: $299.99, plus tax (Tre Dita)
Crafted from the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, this vintage embodies elegance with its radiant golden hue, delicate bubbles, and extraordinary depth. The top end of all production at Louis Roederer is worth all of the hype. Year after year, Cristal delivers a superior drinking experience of the highest quality and complexity. Cristal 2013 is not just a Champagne but a statement of sophistication—ideal for life’s grandest celebrations!
These holiday apps pair perfectly with any bottle of bubbly.
