Who better to ask which bubbles to choose to toast in the New Year than Francoise Peretti, Director of the Champagne Bureau?
Here are her top tips for seeing in 2015 in style:
What to look for when buying champagne:
“New Year’s Eve is often synonymous with large parties: think Non-Vintage – Champagne flagship style and an affordable luxury – and large bottles, preferably magnums and Jeroboams as they provide a novelty factor and stunning centrepieces. If you want to push the boat, think Pink Champagne. It’s ultra-festive and very pretty.
Non-Vintage Champagne comes in a diversity of prices ranging from £18 to £30 a bottle; Pink Champagne between £22-£40 (both prices for 75cl bottle).”
Top tips to celebrate with style:
“Always chill your Champagne to the right temperature. It’s easy: either put your bottles in the fridge the night before, or outside if it’s cold (but not freezing), or simply fill a large tub with ice and water and chill for an hour or so prior to the party.”
“Glassware: It’s often a headache to find enough glassware for New Year’s Eve. Ask your friends to each bring a selection of Champagne flutes or Burgundy/Pinot Noir/Chardonnay style glasses (Riedel Vinum Riesling for Chardonnay-based Champagne and Riedel Vinum Pinot Noir for Pinot Noir/Meunier based champagne are ideal), and offer a selection of glasses to drink from for different Champagne experiences. But please always drink champagne out of glassware, not plastic…”
“Pick the right nibbles: New Year’s Eve should be about having fun not slaving in the kitchen. Prepare large trays of young Comté cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano and sweet cherry tomatoes. For your cheese trays, remember that goat’s cheese – French or British – pairs well with Champagne.”
The Cocktail Lovers say:
Fancy a sparkling cocktail? Try this classic, so simple anyone can make it:
1 sugar cube
3-4 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters
25ml Martell VSOP cognac
Brut Champagne
Method:
Drop your sugar cube into the bottom of your Champagne flute. Coat the sugar cube with 3-4 drops of Angostura aromatic bitters. Pour 25ml Martell cognac over the coated sugar cube. Top with Champagne et voila! Happy New Year.
