As another year winds down, what better way to embrace the cooler temperatures and long winter nights than by pairing simple, elegant hors d’oeuvres with sparkling wine?

Sparklers are some of the easiest wines to pair with food, whether you go with canapés and caviar or something a little more fun like fried chicken and fries. Sassy sparkling wine has the ability to brighten up any meal, whether you’re setting the table for two or twenty-two, so read on for our pointers on year-end pairing with BOTTAIA. 

Karen MacNeil, author of the award-winning book, The Wine Bible, has compiled a quick cheat sheet of five easy steps to help you pair wine and cheese at home. She says, "Sparkling wine and a creamy cheese go together like peanut butter and jelly." 

Aim for brie, chèvre, gorgonzola, camembert, or a blue brie (aka German cambozola). Served alongside simple toast slices or breadsticks, they’ll make for an easy, festive spread when pairedwith our BOTTAIA 2020 blush-colored Rosé or 2019 Spumante. 

The bright acidity in these wines compliments the tangy creaminess of these cheeses. Order a case or two while you’re at it—both bottles are good to go right now and will age in your collection for years to come.