Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Add Some Sparkle to Your Holiday Party


"Come quickly, I am tasting stars,"
Dom Perignon
I had a fabulous time hosting a sparkling wine tasting for my friend Bre’s birthday last weekend for a group of 25 people.   

Why is it that people seem to reserve bubbly for holidays and special occasions? Don’t get me wrong, nothing says let’s celebrate more than the popping of a cork, but sparkling wines are great for any occasion and with so many styles and price points to choose from, why not pull out a bottle tonight?  Sparkling wines boast great acidity that make them perfect compliments to food.

For the party, I selected five wines from around the world to showcase the different styles of each region.  I started off with a Demi-Sec from Vouvray and wrapped up with a Grant Brut from Champagne. A special thank you to Yianni at Yianni's Wine Shop  in Virginia Beach for the tip on pairing hotwings and Champagne. Unusual but perfect combination! Take a look at the menu for some inspiration for your next party.   

All of the selections are non-vintage sparklings. 

Domaine du Margalleau Vouvray, Demi-Sec, Loire Valley, France
Prosciutto, Maytag & Orange Fig Spread
Retail $15 

Mionetto Prosecco, DOC, Treviso, Italy
Dried Apricots & Candied Walnuts 
 Retail $15

J Brut Rose, Sonoma, CA, USA
Raspberry Phyllo Cups w/ Brie
 Retail $32

Segura Viudas Cava, Brut Reserva Heredad, Spain
Charcuterie & Cheese Plate 
Retail $20

Perrier Jouët, Grand Brut, Champagne, France
Popcorn & Boneless Buffalo Wings w/Bleu Cheese
Retail $38 

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