Yum! December 2005

Effervescent drinks make New Year's Eve so festive. Whether you are throwing a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are seven of our favourite fizzy drinks to help you sparkle and shine.

Cheap and cheerful: Segura Viudas Brut Cava Reserve ($14)
This excellent-value Spanish sparkling wine is welcome at any party because it's great with food, desserts or on its own.

When only Champagne will do: Veuve Clicquot Brut ($18-180)
This is classic stuff (elegant mousse, toasty aromas and dry, clean, citrus finish) and its available in various sizes to suit your budget and occasion.

Canadian favourites: Hillebrand Trius Brut ($22)
We pour this Niagara sparkler at all our Test Kitchen parties. Lovely citrus and green apple aromas, toasty notes and long, crisp finish, its a winner.

Also try:

Sumac Ridge Steller's Jay Brut ($20)
This Okanagan Valley beauty is served at many of the best restaurants in Vancouver, this lovely wine has toasty, apple flavours, creamy texture and lively bubbles.

Fizzy beer: Belle Vue Kriek ($3)
This sparkling red Belgium beer with sour cherry aroma and flavour is good on its own or with chocolate desserts (especially Black Forest Cake).

Mixed drinks: Kir Royal
Add a splash of creme de cassis to a glass of Champagne.

Also try:

Pomegranate Fizz
Fill wine glass two-thirds full of pomegranate juice (we particularly like POM Wonderful's 100% pomegranate, cherry-pomegranate and blueberry pomegranate juices); top with soda water and twist of lime.