It’s that time again, New Years! A time for celebration. A time for loved ones. A time for you to make a handful of resolutions which you may or may not abandon come January 15th. We don’t judge.

But… how about making this a time for trying something new and delicious to ring in the New Year?

Let’s talk sparkling wine. These last few weeks you’ve surely bounced around from holiday party to holiday party partaking in your usual champagne fare. Moet, Veuve-Clicquot, perhaps even some Dom Pérignon if you’re lucky, but maybe it’s time we expand our horizons to include many different, and really delicious, sparkling wine alternatives which will make you stand out in any end of year party.

Much like powerful reds from the Douro region and crisp whites from Vinho Verde, the Bairrada region of Portugal makes some pretty outstanding sparkling wines. Most are made in the typical champagne style method, but usually with lesser known varietals. You’ll mostly find the Baga varietal, which up until recently was known as a harsh and highly tannic grape reminiscent of the Nebbiolo grape (Italian varietal known for Barolo wines). However, due to modern winemaking techniques, this grape is becoming the new darling in the wine world by showing its ability to produce a wide range of sparkling wines.

Here are some top pics for this year:

Soalheiro Brut Rosé

Rooted in the region of Vinho Verde, Quinta do Soalheiro translates the aromatic purity of the Alvarinho variety with the perfect balance between minerality and elegance. Salmon pink color, fine and persistent bubbles, with an elegant aroma and delicate palette. Ideal as an aperitif but pairs well with shellfish and seafood. 

Vértice Millésime Douro 2010

Made with traditional Douro grape varietals; primarily of Malvasia Fina, Touriga Franca and Gouveio. This sparkling wine captivates with a beautiful citric color, intense but extremely delicate aroma, and rich and seductive palate with expressive acidity, and firm structure. Fine bubbles, elegant, and balanced.

Lopo de Freitas Brut 2011

Very elegant aroma with floral notes wrapped in a slight mineral, creamy and delicate palate with a very fine bubble and captivating foam. Distinct, personalized, great alone or accompanying a meal. Wonderful representation of the Bairrada region.

Kompassus Blanc de Noirs 2011

Excellent sparkling hailing from the Bairrada region with a light pinkish tone and very fine bubbles. Expressive aromas, great structure, slick and with high acidity.    

Quinta do Poço do Lobo Baga Brut 2013

A 100% Baga Brut; a true Blanc de Noirs. A pale amber color, intense aroma with notes of fresh red fruits and light toast. Very fresh a with a dry and long palate. Very nice sparkling. 

I encourage you to go on your own adventure and try something new this New Year by celebrating with some Portuguese sparkling wines.