Champagne: the mere mention of it evokes an exuberant feeling of excitement and happiness as bubbly memories flood the mind. Laughter, love and new beginnings are all associated with the shimmering drink. New Year’s Eve is fast approaching–a time to toast the year past and drink to what’s ahead. Whatever your budget, Nino’s has the bubbly for you!

JP Chenet Brut $9.99 

I have sung the praises of the JP Chenet Rosè, but I like the Brut just the same. Fresh and flavorful, with pear and apple, it is a great pick for toasting and mimosas.

Chandon Brut $14.99 

Every time I sip the Chandon Brut, I am transported to the sunny spring day I spent at the winery. Featuring green apple, citrus and spice, the finish is refreshing and bright. This bubbly way over-delivers.

Nicolas Feuillatte $32.99 

Citrus and white flowers on the nose, with a pretty golden hue and a steady stream of bubbles, the Nicolas Feuilliatte is full and rich with candied citrus and bready notes. The bubbles create a creamy texture with a long, crisp finish.

Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame $149.99 

This Champagne is luxe, with white tree fruits on the nose and hints of candied lemon peel and nougat. Bright citrus and crystalized ginger are on the front, but as it evolves, notes of warm puff pastry and Sorrento lemons come forth with the powerful and weighty mid-palate. A rich, creamy mouse dissolves into a long, lean finish with chalky minerality and tart citrus. It’s elegant and complex, much like the Widow herself.

Bubbles are my favorite to drink. Holding the wine in my mouth as the bubbles burst brings me the kind of joy I had as a kid with Pop Rocks. In the New Year, I hope to taste many, many more fizzy wines, and with each one, I will toast to all the things I am thankful for.

Which is your favorite Champagne or sparkling wine? Tweet me at @NinosWineExpert!

Enjoy!
– Jennifer Laurie