Sparkling wine is made by a fascinating combination of science and human hands. Allowing carbon dioxide to form in an enclosed space, only for it to saturate into the wine, forming persistent bubbles under the pressure of a car tire, is something to behold. The mesmerizing strands of pearls rising to the top can make you pause for a moment, even mid-convo, to stare at what’s happening in your glass.
And this beautiful, scientific awesomeness can occur anywhere, with any grapes. Sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France is probably the most well known here in the States, as the French have been enticing us with bubbles and marketing since before the Civil War, but this natural phenomenon is not exclusive to the region.
There is, of course, no denying the greatness of wines from Champagne. When that region fell in love with the traditional method, they took it to a whole new level. But outside France, there are all kinds of bubbles to have on offer for your New Year’s. They are all delicious and cost less than even the most entry-level, non-vintage Champagne.
If you love Champers but not the spend, here are some alternative fizzies that are balanced, fun, and hella tasty to drink on New Year’s Eve.
Llopart Reserva Brut Rosé NV
This bottle has just the right amount of tartness. And the very persistent bubbles make this pink wine extremely refreshing. The effervescence lifts on the palate but does not deny you a slight fruity depth.
Treleaven Blanc Ebullient 2019
This wine is soft and fizzy. It smells like sliced apple and has a slight touch of honey-sweetness. It’s a laid-back wine, perfect for a laid-back evening.
Domaine Carneros by Taittinger Ultra Brut 2015
This is a great American Sparkler. It has bracing acidity beneath those soft bubbles. Earthy fruit vibes are lifted into your senses as the body of the wine grips the palate. This is legit, celebratory stuff.
Marenco Pineto Brachetto d’Acqui DOCG 2019
This wine is deep pink and sweet, with soft, playful, frothy bubbles. It has a creaminess coating the palate and smells like strawberries and raspberries. This is one of those rare wines that will pair well with chocolates.
La Marca ‘Luminore’ Prosecco Superiore NV
This Prosecco is soft and bright. It has the tartness of sliced pears, with a whiff of white flowers. The bubbles race to the top, then laze out and float up after being poured, creating a comfy fizz on the palate. Buy a few of these because these bubbs can keep you going all night.
Gratien & Meyer Crémant de Loire Rosé Brut NV
This sparkler has a savory side. It’s ripe and juicy, with broad bubbles and a whiff of pepperiness. The fruit is leaner than other wines on this list, but not only is it great on its own for a midnight toast, it will also sing with a meat and cheese plate.
