No beverage delivers a celebratory bang like Champagne or bubbly – it’s also the one sip that pairs with almost any food. 

Bring cheer to the New Year with these sparkling picks that range from refined and splurgy to festive everyday fun. And we’ve added a tip at the end on how to hit the town safely in a cool set of arty wheels. Happy New Year!

Benovia Winery 2019 Blanc de Blancs

Fragrances of lime blossom, hazelnut and red plum leap from your glass to greet you as creamy bubbles release rich flavors of candied lemon and ripe apricot. The balanced, well-crafted sparkler leaves a savory and lingering finish making it an exquisite option to Champagne. ($60)

Bricoleur Vineyards North Coast Brut

Find bubbly bliss in the luxurious Brut & Caviar Celebration Set featuring Bricoleur Vineyards North Coast Brut, a tin of custom-made Bricoleur x Tsar Nicoulai caviar, and a Mother of Pearl caviar spoon. Complete with a recipe card to inspire gourmet pairings, this gift celebrates life’s sparkling moments in style. ($230)

Champagne Billecart-Salmon

This historical Champagne house recently released two vintage cuvees from 2012, an exceptional year for growing conditions in Champagne, France. The rosé Elisabeth Salmon 2012 ($229.99) is an ode to the co-founder, and Louis Salmon 2012 ($204.99) is a blanc de blancs in honor of Elisabeth’s brother, who was the House’s first chief winemaker. The latter, an elegant partially oak-fermented chardonnay, reveals a refreshing balance of marzipan and brioche, white fruits and white pepper. Worth the splurge!

Faire La Fête Cremant de Limoux NV

Up your game with brut crémant, French sparkling wine made the authentic way in Limoux, France, with low sugar residual and one third the price of Champagne. Tangy and crisp, it’s delicious with any food ($20). For a festive bite, check out the Plum and Pistachio Bruschetta recipe link below.

Foley Family 2020 Brut, Sta. Rita Hills

Make someone’s New Year brighter by bringing over this vivacious sparkler. It opens with aromas of pear, brioche and Golden Delicious apple, while flavors of apple compote, hazelnut and hints of walnut linger on the finish ($65). Myriad labels make up the Foley Family portfolio including California sparklers like Banshe Ten of Cups brut, a Wine Enthusiast favorite.

Heath Sparkling Wines

It’s hard to choose from the assortment of bubbles at this striking tasting room in Fredericksburg, Texas. Its founding sparkler, Euphoria, is a brut blend with characteristics of white peach, honeysuckle and citrus zest. Blanc de Blancs 2021 is pure chardonnay with aromas of melon, Granny Smith apple, and caramel. Rosé fans should consider Adoration 2021 crafted with pinot noir and bubbling over with vibrant red fruit. (starting at $55)

Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut

Delicate aromas of green apple and bright citrus notes with persistent bubbles and balanced acidity make this a popular choice. And what a great price! Perfect with sushi, sashimi, or for a midnight toast. ($20) 

Imagery Brut Rosé

Crafted using the classic methode champenoise process, this brut is a stunning balance of fruit, texture and refreshing acidity with just the right touch of sweetness. The pinot noir-based blend is rounded out with pinot Meunier, and chardonnay adds structure and a luxurious finish. (about $48)

J Vineyards & Winery Cuvée 20

This classic brut made from Russian River grapes is an elegant treat with fragrances of cranberry, toasted almond and gingersnap. A delicate dance of bubbles leads to flavors of lemon meringue pie as the wine’s creaminess is whisked away with a crisp finish. ($40) 

Madame Zéro Champagne

A few years ago, Houstonian Matthew Massey introduced the country to his premier cru blanc de blancs Champagne produced entirely in France. The beauty of this Champagne crafted from 100 percent chardonnay is its low sugar content and extra aging. Choose from blanc de blancs, rosé, or the limited release Grand Vintage Mille. Like to taste before you buy? Stop by Houston’s Central Market on select dates through December 31. ($69.99-$180) 

Poema Pura

With notes of acacia blossoms, citrus, and red apples, this clean, organic Spanish sparkling wine will make you feel good about popping a cork and everyone can afford it ($17). Organic artisan snacks from Clif Family Winery make perfect pairings like rosemary almonds and pistachios or pear-ginger jam for canapes.

VARA Silverhead Brut

Lively and fresh with a creamy mouth feel, this classic method champenoise bottling from New Mexico has aromas of almonds, apricots and pears. It’s easy on the wallet and marries well with prawn sushi rolls and Manchego cheese straws. ($27)

Plum and Pistachio Bruschetta Recipe

Here’s a great appetizer made with Clif Family organic products that pairs with any kind of bubbles! Find the recipe here.

RIDE ALTO

Arrive safely and in style with Alto rideshare in the Katie Kime holiday art car through New Year’s Eve. Alto member perks include a discount for Katie Kime purchases through 2024 and a possible surprise gift waiting in the car. Additionally, riders can enjoy a cocktail in an Alto, just in case you need to get the party started early!

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Cover photo by Frank Gutierrez

Robin Barr Sussman ([email protected]) is a freelance culinary and travel writer who studied at the Culinary Institute of America Greystone, Calif. As a chef for Sonoma County wineries, her specialty was food and wine pairing. Sussman is a columnist for Houston Modern Luxury, Houston CityBook Magazine, Prime Living and Houston House & Home. Her work also appears in Texas Monthly, Fodor’s and Private Clubs Magazine.