North Jersey resident Chaya Kochis is always looking for great dining experiences. She enjoys sharing her love of wine and other culinary tastes regularly – catch her day-to-day exploits on Instagram @chaya_loves_wine (Visit Account). 

Finally! It’s time to say goodbye to “the year that shall not be named” and ring in the New Year! But what to drink? Well, that really depends on your budget and what you’re in the mood for. Lucky for you, I’ve tried a few (ok, maybe more than a few) bottles of Bubbly and rounded up some of my faves.

Freixenet Cordon Negro – Spain
I absolutely love this Cava from the Peñedes region of Spain. It is made from grapes indigenous to the region, Parellada, Macabeo, and Xarel-o, using the same classic method of fermentation as Champagne, so you get the same elegant bubbles. Dry with low sugar, Freixenet is fruity, floral, and crisp. Absolutely delicious! Best of all, Freixenet is not only affordable at under $15 a bottle, it is also very accessible and can be found at almost any local wine shop.

Moussamoussettes Rosé 2019 – France
Off the beaten path, this sparkling rosé from the Loire Valley in France is made with pineau d’aunis, grolleau noir and canernet franc. The grapes are grown organically and there are no additives incorporated during the wine making process. This wine is so refreshing with notes of fruit, is earthy and effervescent, and balances out with a bit of acidity. This wine is a little harder to get and is usually $28. You can get it at discoverywines.com or chambersstwines.com.

Veuve Clicquot – Yellow Label – France
One of my all time favorites! You can’t go wrong with this classic from Champagne, France. Veuve Clicquot is made using the classic fermentation (champenoise) method from mostly Pinot Noir grapes, and includes Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier grapes as well. Dry and crisp, with fruity aromas, Veuve Clicquot is medium bodied and well balanced. The small elegant bubbles flow freely, providing a refreshing effervescence with every sip. Bottles are priced at approximately $50 per bottle and can be found at most wine shops.

Wiston Estate Brut Cuvée – England
When my good friend introduced me to a Sparkling Wine from England, I was skeptical at first. I had no idea England even produced Sparkling Wines, but lo and behold I am now a believer and highly recommend you try it as well. Bold and citrusy, this Brut Cuvée is made of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes grown in their Sussex, England vineyard. This cuvée is creamy and balanced with flavors of green apples and a citrus finish. Priced at around $50, this wine is not yet readily available at every local wine shop. I found mine at Haworth Wine and Spirits and it can also find it online.

However you choose to ring in the New Year, may it be filled with health, love and happiness! Enjoy your selection. Cheers!