Sip on this! Best New Year’s bubbly

One day away from the ball dropping and you don’t want to drop too much money to throw a great party? Host what I call the “bar party.” Simply set up three themed tables, add wine, and you’re ready to celebrate.

Table one: Popcorn Bar
Simply make popcorn and add unique toppings to make savory or sweet versions. What’s an ideal wine to serve with popcorn? Bubbly.

First bowl: Add sea salt and freshly-cracked pepper to give a gourmet kick to basic popcorn.

Wine pairing suggestions:

• Piper Heidseck Brut, Champagne, France $40 (4 pack Mini bottles) or $43 (750ml bottle)
• Taittinger Brut La Française, Champagne, France $45
• Moet & Chandon Imperial Champagne, France $90

Reason: The crisp, refreshing quality of Champagne is the perfect foil for the saltiness of popcorn.


Second bowl: Add truffle or olive oil, parmesan cheese, and a dash of herbs.

Wine pairing suggestions:

• Segura Viudas Aria Estate Brut, Cava, Spain $12
• Freixenet Cordon Negro Cava, Spain $10

Reason: Cava from Spain is an affordable option for parties. This version is more full-bodied and earthy making it a match for the richer style of popcorn.

Third bowl: For a sweeter style of popcorn, drizzle melted chocolate or honey on the popcorn. Harry & David Moose Munch is also a delicious option for sweet corn.

Wine pairing suggestions:

• Chandon Brut, California $22 (to make a festive holiday cocktail, add a dash of cranberry or pomegranate juice for a hint of sweetness)
• Chandon “Riche”, California $22

Reason: The Riche has a touch of sweetness equaling the sweetness of the popcorn.

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