As the clock ticks closer to midnight on 2024 New Year's Eve, the pop of a champagne bottle symbolizes the joy and hope of a fresh start. But why wait until the New Year is here? Pop the cork on December 31st, to celebrate the National Champagne Day!

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with some champagne (Photo by Kateryna Hliznitsova on Unsplash)

Selecting the perfect champagne to toast the arrival of the new year is both an art and a celebration in itself. Whether you're welcoming the new year in Ney York City Times Square, Las Vegas or hosting an intimate gathering, Champagne is key to your celebrations.

We know last minute wine buys before the ball drops can be scary. That’s why we have prepared these expert tips to help you choose a champagne that not only sparkles in the glass but also complements your festive dishes and sets the tone for a memorable celebration.

1. Choose the Right Glass

Flute Glasses: Ideal for showcasing champagne bubbles, but not the best for aroma.

White Wine Glasses: A better choice for enhancing the aroma and flavor, especially for vintage champagnes.

2. Deciphering the Label

Authenticity: Look for "Champagne" in Latin script.

Color: "Blanc" for white, "Rosé" for pink.

Vintage: A year on the label indicates a vintage champagne. "NV" means the wine is a blend of many vintages.

Sweetness: "Brut" for dry, "Demi-Sec" for sweeter champagne.

Style: Choose "Blanc de Blancs" for a more elegant experience, or "Bland de Noirs" if you're looking for a more fruity style.

3. Serving Champagne Correctly

Temperature: Serve between 6 to 8 degrees Celsius.

Opening: Gently rotate the bottle, not the cork, to open.

Handling: Hold the glass by the stem or base to avoid warming the drink.

4. Pairing with Food

White Champagne: Pairs well with seafood, salads, and poultry.

Rosé and Vintage Champagne: Suitable for a broader range of dishes, including red meats.

Demi-Sec Champagne: Best with fruits and desserts.

5. Foods to Avoid

Avoid pairing champagne with citrus, chocolate-based dishes, and vinegar-heavy sauces.

6. Choosing for Parties

Consider a Blanc or a Rosé in larger bottle sizes like magnums for added festivity.

Selecting an older vintage is also a great way to make the night memorable!

7. Health Considerations

Champagne is lighter in sulfur and alcohol compared to other wines, but moderation is still key. Check your country's alcohol intake suggestions.

8. Gifting Champagne

An elegant and versatile gift, suitable for any recipient. White or rosé champagnes are great for beginners, while vintage champagnes are ideal for connoisseurs.

Cheers to the New Year!

Champagne is synonymous with celebration. Choosing the right type, serving it correctly, and pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate your New Year's Eve experience, making it a night to remember. And if you are looking for a Champagne alternative, here are 5 excellent choices!

Happy New Year from the VinoVoss team!