I’m fascinated how other countries celebrate traditional holidays. It gives great insight into their culture.
When it comes to New Year’s Eve though, we seem to be pretty united around the globe. Festivities focus largely on eating, drinking and dancing with noisy parties that last long into the wee hours. Fireworks are also par for the course and bubbles feature heavily.
Depending on where you are in the world, the type of sparkling may change. In Spain, they’d drink Cava; in Germany, Sekt and in France, Champagne (or Crémant if that’s too pricey). In BC we have great examples of all of these to choose from along with lots of delicious locally made sparklers (think Blue Mountain and Bella).
Besides drinking Prosecco or Franciacorta, the Italians also wear brand new red underwear on New Year’s Eve. Apparently the Spaniards do too. This is supposed to bring good luck. Mexico makes a more overt show of colour, with decorations taking the hue of what they wish the New Year to manifest. Red encourages an overall improvement of lifestyle and love. I’ll drink to that. And make mine red wine.
But wait, in Brazil, they wear white. Besides good fortune, it’s supposed to ward off evil spirits. So, to cover all bases, I am recommending three sparklers for different budgets plus a red for good luck and a white to keep any malevolent forces at bay.
Here’s to a New Year full of luck, love and plenty of great wine!
n/v Codorníu, Clasico Brut • Cava DO, Spain • $13.99, BC Liquor Stores
A solid value when toasting the New Year with a large crowd. Pear, lemon, buttered almonds and lots and lots of frothy bubbles.
n/v Cesarini Sforza, 'Tridentum' Brut Rosé • Trento DOC, Italy • $28.99,BC Liquor Stores
Italy’s lesser-known Trento DOC appellation is a fantastic source of well-priced traditional method sparkling. A festive burst of cranberries and red currants along with an intriguing suggestion of baking bread. And that pale blush of pink is surely enough to promise new love and good fortune.
n/v Pierre Péters, Cuvée de Réserve, Blanc de Blancs, Brut Grand Cru • Champagne AOC, France • $75-82,private wine stores
Made in tiny quantities, Pierre Péters is surely one of my favourite grower Champagnes and the Cuvée de Réserve is my go-to on NYE. Combining 20 different vintages of wine, it’s elegant, complex and contemplative. Perfect for sipping while reflecting on 2015 as well as devising a resolution for the New Year. Try Marquis and Kitsilano Wine Cellars.
2014 Heridade do Rocim, ‘Mariana’ • VR Alentejano, Portugal • $16.99, BC Liquor Stores
A brand spanking new white in BC, the Mariana is perfectly suited to the occasion at hand. And the price is party right. Fragrant herbs, fleshy fruit, creamy texture and citrus vibrancy sums up this easy drinking, food friendly white. And FYI, in Portugal the tradition is to eat 12 raisins as the clock strikes midnight, making a wish with each. Does a sip of wine count?
2012 Wynns, Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon • Coonawarra, Australia • $21.99(reg. $24.49), BC Liquor Stores
A celebratory red to bring you luck, love and a superior lifestyle. This won Best of Show in the Vancouver Magazine's International Wine Awards 2016 and has long been one of my favourite Aussie Cabs. Start the New Year off with a winner.
• Prices exclusive of taxes.
