This New Year’s Eve—or for any special fete—give your guests something to talk about with a menu paired with nothing but French champagne. The diversity of flavors and character will keep everyone anticipating the next pour. —Julie Blacklidge
7 p.m., appetizers
Champagne Taittinger Prélude Brut
Grands Crus, NV ($60)
It’s a little dry but still packed with fruit. Crab cakes, salads, sautéed mushrooms, and other rich appetizers enhance the hint of spice and creamy, long finish. Pogo’s, 5360 W. Lovers Ln., Ste. 200. 214-350-8989.
8:30 p.m., dinner
Champagne Mumm Cordon Rouge,
NV ($34.99)
The Pinot Noir (45 percent) in this cuvée gives enough structure to ground most decadent meals. Roasted duck with sweet apricot glaze or herb-infused grilled chicken brings out the subtle ripe fruit and herbal
notes. The Wine Market & More, 3858 Oak Lawn Ave. 214-219-6758.
9:30 p.m., dessert
Champagne Krug Brut Grande Cuvée,
NV ($140)
Up to 40 percent of reserve wines from older vintages are blended to reveal layers of complexity. Touches of toasted coconut, light ginger, and tropical fruit make this a fantastic complement to a dessert buffet. Chateau Wine Market, 4514 Travis St. 214-528-9463.
11 p.m., after coffee
Champagne Charles Heidsieck Brut Rosé, 1996 ($69.99)
Match the blush of excitement on your guests’ cheeks with an elegant rosé. Expect a beautiful, floral aroma with well-rounded earthy flavors. Beverage City, 1100 Preston Rd., Plano. 972-964-8660.
Midnight, the toast
Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte Cuvée Palmes d’Or, 1992 ($100)
Ring in the New Year with a truly exceptional wine. This is a blend of all 17 Villages Grand Cru and is made with the “best of the best” juice. Because it has aged for 12 years, the cuvée has lost some of its lightness, but toasted nut still seduces the palate and provides the perfect prelude to a kiss. Sigel’s, 15003 Inwood Rd., Addison. 972-387-9873.
