Do I have to drink Champagne on New Year's Eve?

When you think of luxury and celebration, nothing stands out as much as Champagne. Dom Pérignon was drunk by royals as early as the 17th Century, becoming a symbol of wealth and superiority. There are bottles of Cristal that are currently worth a staggering £25,000 or more so clearly its reputation still stands.

Champagne was actually marketed specifically towards the elite, and so there’s no wonder it became fashionable to pop a bottle at grand events, important meetings and lavish celebrations.

This is why we tend to turn to an expensive bottle of fizz on New Year’s Eve. Is there a better occasion to crack open a posh tipple that you normally wouldn’t dare to enjoy?

The idea that we should open a bottle that we consider a luxury during times of celebration is one I find interesting. What would I want to drink as a special treat? Something I’d be willing to splash out on if the occasion warranted it? 

Champagne has never been my go to. It’s not even my go to fizz, if I’m being honest. I often find them to be overpriced, plus, I’m not a huge fan of strong biscuit flavours in my drink. If I do opt for a glass of bubbles I tend to lean towards a classic Crémant, an interesting Pet-Nat or a traditional method sparkling from lesser-known regions.

This year, however, I’ve decided to ditch the sparkles entirely. I’d much rather enjoy a chilled glass of white or a big red in an even bigger glass.

So, what will I be sipping whilst ringing in the New Year? I’m opting for a Zind Humbrecht Gewurztraminer from Alsace, followed by a Ribera del Duero from Dominio Fournier. 

The spiced fruit and classic floral aromas in the white will pair perfectly with my pre-ordered chicken korma, and the bold, dark fruits and velvety liquorice notes in the red will feel like a warm blanket over me while I get comfortable on the sofa.

What will be your tipple this New Year's Eve?