Champagne Toast to New Year 2013

Choosing the appropriate sparkling wine for New Year's Eve can make you dizzy before the first sip. Here's a handy guide to the intoxicating world of bubbles on a budget.

The pop of the Champagne cork is as much a part of the New Year’s Eve soundtrack as "Auld Lang Syne" and fireworks. The tiny, tickly bubbles evoke celebratory moods. With so many sparkling wines to choose from, picking the best bottle can be daunting. Prices for sparkling wine range from less than $10 to more than $500 per bottle. Keep in mind that while you usually get what you pay for, there are some great options for those on a budget.  Large “negociant” champagne houses that purchase much of their fruit, such as Veuve Clicquot, Bollinger, Roederer, Taittinger, Perrier Jouet and Nicolas Feuillatte, dominate the market. However, in the last decade or so, Champagne from small growers has gained some traction with Champagne enthusiasts. …

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Holiday Coverage

Ring in the New Year with Local Flair

Wondering what to do for New Year's Eve without traveling far? Try one of these great suggestions for a fun night out in Rumson and Fair Haven.

Below is a list of local spots where you can find the perfect New Year's celebration for your style. The best part? You don't have to leave Rumson or Fair Haven! Undici will be serving, among other delights, a traditional vegetarian New Year’s Eve soup, served with house made pasta for $8 and a grilled “King” salmon filet with celery root puree, roasted winter mushrooms and imported saba (a lightly sweet, unfermented syrup made primarily from the must of Trebbiano grapes) for $32. Fromagerie will ring in 2012 David Burke style. Their New Year's Eve menu is available from 5 p.m. until the champagne runs out. The meal will include champagne, 4 courses and live entertainment for $105 but seating is limited.  On New Year's Day the family can …

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