Champagne, cava, prosecco, which sparkling wine is best for New Year’s Eve?

On New Year’s Eve, bottles are popped and glasses are constantly filled. But, choosing which sparkling wine is best for New Year’s Eve celebratory occasion is not the easiest task. From champagne to cava to prosecco to even sparkling Reisling, some people might revert to the “champagne of beers.” Instead of making the situation complicated, what are some splendid sparkling wines for New Year’s Eve?

Without making the conversation complicated, there are various differences between champagne, cava, prosecco and other sparkling wines. Beyond the origin which often denotes the liquid in the bottle, the size of the bubbles, the method, and the flavor influence which one to choose. If price does not influence the choice, it really comes down to flavor preference.

Although Don Ho might have sung about tiny bubbles, the size of the bubbles does matter for sparkling wine enjoyment. A higher quality offering will have smaller bubbles. While some people might debate their preferences, the methods, and how bubbles impact the enjoyment, the flavor needs to fill the glass.

While the sommelier can appreciate the intricacies of the process and the impact of the terroir, most people want a delicious sparkling wine for the celebratory occasion. And, in many cases, that wine has to fit into certain parameters. Not everyone can afford to splurge on a more expensive bottle. Luckily, there are a variety of bottles that are waiting to be chilled.

G.H. Mumm Champagne

While there are many offerings under the brand’s prestigious label, the G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon is always a delight. The identifiable red stripe makes it stand out on the shelf. In the latest bottling, structured sip is invigorating. The complexity invites drinkers to immerse themselves in every sip. It is more than just an expressive nose of fruits and honey. It is the anticipation that the exuberance will lead into a life well lived.

Veuve Clicquot

The iconic vibrant yellow label calls drinkers to open that bottle. Mimicking the brand’s iconic color, this champagne is bright and effervescent. Often a favorite apertif, the freshness leads drinkers open to the total experience. Slightly intense but also incredibly versatile, it is always a perfect bottle to enjoy for a special occasion.

Cinzano Prosecco

The Cinzano, delightful Italian sparkling wine, is a dry sparkling wine that has almost limitless offerings. While many people have poured some into that Aperol Spritz, enjoying it on its own is quite lovely. With some green apple flavors and a few floral notes, it is wonderful with that cheese board, a pasta, or even eating those 12 grapes at midnight on New Year’s Eve.

Segura Viudas

As one of the oldest, most respected Spanish Cavas, Segura Viudas has honed its craft and earned copious amounts of praise. While there are several offerings under its label, the Reserva Heredad has the most complex bouquet. The elegant wine brings together a slightly sweet honey note with a subtle smoke. Enjoying one of these bottles is overflowing with deliciousness.

Josh Cellars Prosecco

While the iconic J on the label might be an homage to the founder’s mother’s writing, the wine in the bottle is always superb. Although many people turn to the brand’s red wines for that Sunday supper, it is the Josh Cellars Prosecco that is delightful for a celebration. Slightly sweet from the pear and a little acidic from the citrus, it is lovely on its own or paired within a cocktail.

Fresh Vine Wine sparkling wine

Owned by Nina Dobrev and Julianne Hough, Fresh Vine Wine features low-carb, low-calorie, gluten-free wines. For wine drinkers who want that sparkle, the brand’s sparkling wine is full of red fruits. The raspberry and strawberry flavors add to the sweetness and the perfectly pink color.

Brooks Sparkling Reisling

Probably the most unexpected offering on this list, the Brooks Sparkling Reisling is the Oregon wine that needs to be discovered. While the vineyard only produces a limited amount of these bottles, the uniqueness of flavors is delightful. The biodynamic wine features flavors of kumquats and yuzu. It can stand up to the richness of butter or pair with a citrus forward dessert.

No matter which sparkling wine is best for New Year’s Eve, a special occasion, or just because, there are plenty of options to chill. Grab a glass, toast to good times, and enjoy the moment.