Most people feel that one should not spend New Year's Eve alone. My philosophy is no one should spend New Year's Eve without "bubbles"! With New Year's Eve just around the corner, I'd like to offer some sparkling wine suggestions for you and your loved ones to be able to ring in the new year without "breaking the bank"!

The first sparkling wine that I recommend is the Domaine Carneros Brut Cuvee, Carneros, California($26.00 to $30.00 a bottle retail). This sparkling wine has aromas of meadow flowers, pears and citrus peel enhanced with hints of toasted nuts, vanilla and spice. The wine is elegantly structured, round and flavorful with the long, creamy finish that is the hallmark of Domaine Carneros wines.  Enjoy this Brut with double or triple cream cheeses, oysters, shellfish, fish, poultry and Asian cuisine.

Another California crowd pleaser is the J Vineyards & Winery Cuvee 20 Brut NV ($20.00- $25.00 a bottle retail). This Cuvee gracefully opens up crisp lemon peel and huckleberry aromas. Flavors of Fuji Apple, grapefruit, toast, caramel, almond and a sweet hint of angel food cake. The acidity adds just enough liveliness and the citrus zest leads to a lingering, warm pear and lush finish. Try pairing this sparkling wine with any shellfish or chicken appetizer or entrée.  

To experience a different and delicious sparkling wine from another country, I recommend the Santa Margherita Prosecco Di Valdobbiadene from Alto Adige, Italy ($18.00-$22.00 a bottle retail). This prosecco has aromas and flavors of peach and apple. The texture of this wine deftly balances the richness of ripe stone fruit with the grip of fruit skins, like apple and apricot. A hint of white pepper adds subtle complexity, while the finish feels fresh and elegant.  Enjoy this as an aperitif or after dinner with light desserts such as a peach or pear tart.

Spanish Cavas are known for being affordable and versatile. The Codorniu Reserva Raventos Brut Cava ($18.00-$22.00 a bottle retail) has intense aromas of pineapple, stone fruit, citrus and apple. There are predominant notes of dried fruits, nuts, honey and toasted bread. This Cava has a creamy texture, refreshing mouthfeel and lingering finish. Pair this Cava with ceviche, chicken or pork dishes.

Even though you shouldn't need a reason to pop open a bottle of bubbly, for this New Year's Eve treat yourself to a glass or a bottle of one of these or any sparkling wine of your choice.

Cheers to you and a very happy 2010! 

Brad Wermager