Choosing the right drink to toast in the New Year is an essential part of the celebration. Here are some excellent options for champagne, cava, prosecco, and sparkling wine to suit every taste and budget.
Champagne
1. Ruinart Blanc de Blancs
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Price: Around $70-$80
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Flavor Profile: Elegant and crisp with notes of citrus, green apples, and white flowers. Perfect for those who prefer a refreshing champagne.
- Pair With: Seafood or simply enjoy on its own.
2. Bollinger Special Cuvée
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Price: Around $60-$70
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Flavor Profile: Rich and complex with flavors of ripe apples, brioche, and a hint of nuttiness. A luxurious and reliable choice.
- Pair With: Appetizers like smoked salmon or parmesan cheese.
3. Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label
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Price: Around $50-$60
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Flavor Profile: Fruity and balanced with notes of peach, pear, and a hint of vanilla. An iconic choice for festive occasions.
- Pair With: Perfect as an aperitif or to toast at midnight.
Cava
1. Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut
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Price: Around $10-$15
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Flavor Profile: Dry and refreshing with flavors of citrus, green apples, and a touch of almond. A classic and affordable option.
- Pair With: Tapas or as a welcoming drink.
2. Codorníu Anna de Codorníu Blanc de Blancs
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Price: Around $15-$20
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Flavor Profile: Elegant and light with hints of tropical fruit and citrus. A modern cava for those who enjoy subtle flavors.
- Pair With: Fish and seafood or a simple toast.
Prosecco
1. Mionetto Prosecco Brut
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Price: Around $12-$15
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Flavor Profile: Light and fresh with notes of pear, apple, and honeydew melon. A great choice for creating a relaxed atmosphere.
- Pair With: Aperitifs or light snacks.
2. Valdo Prosecco Extra Dry
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Price: Around $10-$13
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Flavor Profile: Fruity and fresh with a hint of sweetness and notes of citrus and white flowers. Perfect for those who prefer a softer style.
- Pair With: Fruity desserts or as festive bubbles at midnight.
Sparkling Wine
1. Crémant de Bourgogne Louis Bouillot Brut
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Price: Around $15-$20
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Flavor Profile: Elegant and fresh with notes of green apples and citrus. A great alternative to champagne for a smaller budget.
- Pair With: Seafood or light appetizers.
2. Rotari Brut
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Price: Around $12-$18
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Flavor Profile: Full-bodied and well-balanced with notes of apple, citrus, and a light toastiness. An Italian favorite with class.
- Pair With: Aperitifs or as a social drink.
Extra Tips for Midnight Toasts
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Luxury: Want to go all-in? Try Dom Pérignon Vintage for an exclusive toast (around $200).
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Budget: For a simpler but equally festive toast, choose a good prosecco or cava under $15.
- Don’t forget to chill the bottles properly – sparkling wine tastes best at around 6–8 °C (43–46 °F).
Happy New Year and cheers! 🥂✨
