The pop of a champagne cork signals anticipation and excitement while the delicate aroma that escapes the bottle invokes pleasure and delight. With a cascade of tiny bubbles that tickle the palate, its crisp, tingling effervescence tantalizes the tongue. Sparkling wine of all kinds elevates any occasion. It imparts a sense of luxury and indulgence, and for this New Year's Eve we have sparklers that will fit any budget.
At the luxury end, in addition to the major Champagne brands, we carry several Grower Champagnes - those Champagne producers who grow their own grapes and bottle their own wine. Some of our favorites are:
Vilmart e Cie Grand Cellier
A mouthwatering Champagne with a plush and creamy mousse, rapier-like acidity and flavors that persist on the long finish.
$67.99
Gaston Chiquet Blanc de Blanc d'Ay
A fabulous sparkler, rich and resonant in the glass with tremendous palate presence and one of the most singular wines in Champagne.
$61.99
Egly-Ouriet Les Premices
Toasty and yeasty aromas with smoky intrigue, full and rich with brioche and creamy intensity. $71.99
At the moderately priced level we have some other sparklers:
Schramsberg Blanc de Blanc
A crisp and vibrant sparkler from California crafted entirely from Chardonnay grapes. A wine of great finesse.
$43.99
Von Winning Riesling Sekt Extra Brut
A bright lemony palate with a very fine mousse and long finish. Irrepressibly juicy with great minerality.
$28.99
Domaine de Cray Montlouis
A lovely sparkling Chenin Blanc from the Loire. Extremely pretty with delicate fruit and fine bubbles.
$24.99
Schlossgut Diel Pinot de Diel Brut
Pinot Noir from Germany, pure and refreshing with a yeasty bouquet that is round and delicate on the palate.
$19.99
For the Natural Wine lovers we have:
Nestarec Danger 380 Volts
A blend of Muscat Blanc, Muller-Thurgau and Neuburger. A wild delicious Pet-Nat with electrifying acidity.
$32.99
Soellner Pet Nature
Biodynamic Pinot Noir, Riesling, Muscatel and Roter Veltliner from Austria. Very dry with aromas of dark brioche, and delicate fruit.
$23.99
Field Recordings Rose Pet-Nat
From old vine Cabernet franc, the wine has a unique raw character, loaded with energy and charisma.
$21.99
And at the budget end our best offering is:
Ferrandiere Blanc de Blanc
From the South of France which has a nicely creamy mouth feel, fresh lemon and sliced apple fruit, a touch of toast and a crisp, dry, finish. Absolutely excellent value.
$14.99