Even though it’s not Rosh Hashanah, New Year’s Eve sees many of us waiting expectantly for the ball to drop with a glass of sparkling wine in our hands. Toasting with a glass of “bubbly” makes any celebration into a party. This New Year’s, the excellent range of imported kosher wines means that you are spoiled for choice when selecting a sparkling wine. To help you find the best bottle for your budget, here are some excellent options in a range of prices.
Traditional champagnes tend to be the most expensive option. If you’re looking for the real champagne-from-France experience, then try excellent Brut Premier Cru from the Champagne Bonnet-Ponson winery, who have been making champagne for six generations.
For an equally exquisite drinking experience, at half the price, Yarden’s Blanc de Blancs is made using the traditional champagne method entirely from chardonnay grapes grown in the northern Golan Heights in Israel. The cool climate in the Golan makes it the prime Israeli region for growing the grape varieties needed to make high-class champagne-style wines. Another great Israeli option is Gilgal Brut, which is made from equal parts of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, and strictly according to the traditional method. Gilgal Brut is a fantastic option for the price conscious, giving great value for money.
If you’d like to venture away from traditional champagne style, then Les Floreales imports a range of Lambrusco wines directly from northern Italy. They offer both traditional red sparkling Lambrusco, as well as a sparkling Lambrusco Rosé. If the idea of “pink champagne” appeals to you, Yarden also offers a sparkling rosé. This elegant sparkling wine has good acidity with nice length of flavor (hints of strawberry and orange if you want to show off your wine-tasting skills).
For many people, the go-to sparkling wine is a Moscato. With a low alcohol content, typically around six percent, and readily available anywhere from the local supermarket to quality wine shops, Moscato has become a firm favorite. Bartenura Moscato, with its distinctive bright blue bottle, is by far the most famous kosher Italian Moscato. There are some other excellent options on the market. Hermon Moscato is an great choice for fans of Israeli wines. With a light sweetness, this well-priced wine is perfect to accompany dessert. Golan Moscato also is made in the style of Moscato d’Asti by using the Muscat Canelli variety grown in the southern Golan. Exuberantly aromatic, its gentle sparkle and low alcohol content (6 percent) make it perfect for toasting the New Year.
With many different options available at your local wine store, whatever your budget, you’ll be ready to whip out the perfect bottle and celebrate with your friends and family. Wherever you are, and whatever you have in your glass this year, have a very happy new year!
By Catherine Green
