The Best Red Wines for a Sparkling New Year's Eve

As much as I love Veuve, this year I will dive into the lesser-known gems that are sure to blow the minds of your guests and give your New Year's Eve an extra special touch. Think about it: you're not just celebrating the end of the year, you're toasting to new beginnings, to adventures, to memories that will be made.

1. Lambrusco: The Italian Delight

Lambrusco has been my old stand-by for years. This fruity, acidity-balanced sparkling red wine is perfect for any occasion. It's vibrant, it's lively, and it's just plain fun. Just think of serving a bottle of Lambrusco to your guests with its delicate bubbles and hint of cherry. Watch them light up. I promise, this one's a guaranteed winner!

I would encourage trying:

• Cleto Chiarli Lambrusco di Sorbara: This dry Lambrusco exhibits the classic scents of cherry, raspberry, and a touch of spice. Fattoria Moretti Lambrusco Salamino This sparkling red wine is full of intense fruit flavors ranging from ripe berries to sweet cherries, all balanced by refreshing acidity. Tasting Note: Lambrusco pairs well with appetizers like cheese and charcuterie, and even spicy dishes, balancing each flavor.

2. Shiraz: Bold and Spicy

Those who like a bit more character in their wines will go for Shiraz. This full-bodied red wine is known for its complex flavors that range from dark berries and plum to spice and even a hint of chocolate. It's bold and an intense flavor profile which will make this New Year's Eve unforgettable.

I like:

• Penfolds Grange: This iconic Australian Shiraz has acquired its fame with its boldness, depth, and long-term aging potential. It is supposed to be a luxurious choice for a special occasion. Châteauneuf-du-Pape: A French wine that really showcases the powerful and complex nature of Shiraz. Look for a full-bodied, velvety texture.

Tip: Pair a Shiraz with grilled meats and roasted vegetables, or even a rich, chocolatey dessert.

3. Pinot Noir: Wine of Elegance and Versatility

If you are looking for a red wine that is more subtle and fine, look to Pinot Noir. Ranging in color from cherry red to garnet, Pinot Noir has a delicate flavor profile with the essence of red cherry, strawberry, and an earthy component. It is one of the wines that is fairly versatile when it comes to food pairing.

I do like:

• Domaine de la Romanée-Conti: This is a legendary Burgundy Pinot Noir, complex yet lithe. This is truly special wine to enjoy on New Year's Eve.
• Willamette Valley Pinot Noir: The Willamette Valley in Oregon has a host of the world's best Pinot Noirs. Bright fruit flavors and silky-smooth texture describe the wines.

Tip: Salmon, roasted chicken, or even lighter pasta dishes go well with this wine.

Serving Your Red Wine with Style

Not only is choosing the right wine half the battle, but also paying close attention to the little details will make your New Year's Eve indeed spectacular. This isn't just about drinking a bottle of wine; this is about an experience. Here are some ways you could make New Year's Eve wine service truly special:

1. The Right Glass

Don't you dare underestimate the power of a good wine glass. The shape influences aroma and flavor in wine. On red wines, the wide bowl and slightly tapered rim of a Bordeaux glass enhance the breathing of the wine for release of its full aroma potential. It is also quite elegant to use at your New Year's Eve table.

2. Chill It Right

Not all red wines need to be served chilled, but a slight chill really brings out the flavours and refreshes it. Chilling for 30 - 45 minutes in the refrigerator for the lighter reds like Pinot Noir will do the trick. For full-bodied reds like Shiraz, chilling for 15 minutes in the refrigerator is good enough. Also, remember to take the wine out from the refrigerator some 15 minutes before serving; it will get to room temperature.

3. Decantation to Maximum Flavor

One of the best ways to get your red wine aerated and giving it room to breathe is by decanting. It releases the aromas of the wine and softens the tannins in the wine, hence giving it a smooth and flavorful experience. A decanter also adds a touch of elegance to your New Year's Eve table. If using a decanter, do the pouring at least 30 minutes in advance to give time for it to breathe.

Your New Year's Eve Wine Celebration

Voilà! Some suggestions to make your New Year's Eve a bit better with some great red wines. Remember, a bottle of wine is not just something you taste; it is stories shared, memories created, and toasts raised. So let the glasses rise for the new year and make it an unforgettable one! Cheers!

Conclusion

As we say adieu to one year and hello to the next, I hope these red wine recommendations bring at least a touch of sophistication and cheer into your New Year's Eve celebration. Not the slightest daunted, try to experiment and find your own perfect bottle. After all, the company you share, the laughter you have, and the memories you create form the essentials of any New Year's Eve celebration. And nothing enhances those moments better than a good bottle of red wine!