Bubbles to Carry You into 2013

Pop, fizz, pour – the tell tale sounds of a fresh bottle of champagne are commonplace this time of year. But why restrict yourself to the same old bubbly? There’s a new taste in town: sparkling wines from Spain and South America. Get your glasses ready.

Over the last year, there has been a growing interest in sparkling wines from all over the world and rightfully so – there are more sparkling wines available than ever before and smart customers are doing their research. Consumers now know there’s more to buy or drink than just French champagne. And though Italian Prosecco is a cornerstone of the sparkling market, other wines are bursting through the industry doors. Spain and South America are introducing their own varietals, taking advantage of their unique landscape and climate and making the taste of their grapes work for all of us.

Wine distributors are paying attention. Winebow, a premier U.S. importer and distributor based in New Jersey, travels the world looking for the best wine producers and wines to bring into the U.S. market. They have a hand-selected portfolio of wines from all parts of the world, and that portfolio includes Spanish and South American sparklings.

So why wait for a special occasion? Sparkling wines make great aperitifs, pair wonderfully with salty dishes, fried foods, seafood, and light dishes like chicken, and are delicious on their own. So pop the bubbly and have a drink, make every day a special occasion.

Don’t know where to get started? Our friends at Winebow have helped us pick out a few bottles to help you stock your fridge. Cheers.

Alma Negra Misterio Rosé, ($21)

This predominantly Malbec blend from Argentina has pink orange nuances and aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and cassis that lend to tasting notes of strawberry, licorice, and rose petals. It pairs well with fresh seafood (try oysters and caviar) and light cheese and berries. To buy this bottle directly, click here.

Juve y Camps Brut Rosé ($16)

This Cava is made from 100 percent Pinot Noir grapes and is a beautiful salmon-pink color. It has notes of fresh red apple and strawberries and hints of honey white flowers and toasted almonds. Pair it with sushi, salmon, or strawberry sorbet. To buy this wine directly, click here.

Juve y Camps Reserva de la Familia 2007 ($16)

This Spanish wine is made from the free run juice of three varietals and is blended with Chardonnay.  Fit for a king (this is Spain’s royal family’s Cava of choice), this Cava has aromas of white peach, toasted bread, and green tea, and hints of citrus. Pair it with paté, seafood, tapas, grilled poultry, or cured meat and make your next dinner a royal affair. To buy this bottle directly, click here.

Juve y Camps Milesiemé Reserva 2008 ($22)

Milesiemé is made only in exceptional vintages, entirely from the free run juice of Chardonnay grapes. It’s rich gold in color and has aromas of pears, white blossom, and toast. Pair it with sashimi, caviar, tuna, ceviche, or drink on it’s own. To buy this bottle directly, click here.

Hom Extra Brut ($12)

Made from Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc, this sparkling wine from Argentina is a fun way to start your fiesta. Everybody loves bubbles, so hand your guests a glass the moment they arrive, and they will all rave about the delicate flavors of lemon, peach and apple with a touch of toast.