Champagne is well and good (ok, it’s great), but there’s nothing like celebrating with a stellar glass of Hudson Valley-made wine. So, whether it’s for the new year, a birthday party, an anniversary, or any other special occasion, skip the standard bubbly and pour a local glass of sparkling wine instead. How’s that for sweet sipping?
Domaine Bourmont
Brimstone Hill Winery, Pine Bush
Brimstone Hill bottles a stunner in this Domaine Bourmont. The dry sparkling wine is made according to the “methode champenoise,” a more extensive wine-making process that requires a wine to go through a second fermentation to produce the bubbles that make the vino sparkle just right. Understandably, it’s an ideal one to crack open for celebrations.
Carpe Diem
Brotherhood Winery, Washingtonville
For sparkling wine lovers in the Hudson Valley, Brotherhood is a real treat. While the Washingtonville winery produces a number of sparkling vinos, our pick for special occasions is Carpe Diem, a.k.a. Seize the Day. An Asti Spumante, this Italian-style wine is made from Moscato grapes to produce a wine that is naturally fruity and perfectly sweet. If you love champagne but want something sweeter, this is a top pick.
Champagne – Seyval Naturel
Clinton Vineyards, Clinton Corners
If you’re in the mood to splurge, look no further than the Seyval Naturel by Clinton Vineyards. This elegant drink relies upon the methode champenoise to deliver its signature bubbles. As the name suggests, the vino itself is made from Seyval Blanc grapes, which impart a fruity core with notes of green apple and pear. As for the finish, it’s all about those lush and toasty flavors. This wine is an ideal option for anniversaries and engagements.
2017 Brut Proprietor’s Special Reserve
Millbrook Vineyards & Winery, Millbrook
Millbrook Vineyards & Winery produces vinos that run the gamut from reds to whites (and more!). However, when you’re in the mood for something special, pop open the 2017 Brut Proprietor’s Special Reserve. As the name hints, the wine is made using the methode champenoise. Flavor notes include fresh lime, apricot, herbs, orange candy, and ginger. To finish, undertones of sourdough and minerals make this a particularly wonderful libation.
2020 The Sparkling Queen
Tousey Winery, Germantown
Anyone who prefers their bubbly on the drier side will want to check out this Tousey Winery hit. The Sparkling Queen is an off-dry sparkling wine that embraces notes of melon, with a tasteful balance of acidity and a wonderfully clean finish.
