By NERIA BARR
Time for tiny bubbles again. But if you’re relegating sparkling wines to a quick toast at the start of the evening or a prolonged one at the stroke of midnight, you’re doing it all wrong. The sheer diversity of champagne styles gives you endless options when it comes to food.That’s hardly limited to champagne, by the way. Great sparklers come from around the globe, including Israel.We searched out the best and the brightest that wine importers are offering this year, and we must say it was an impressive flight across the board.Last week our wine columnist Adam Montefiore wrote about local sparkling wines as we do every year at this time. This week, we focus on a selection of imported non-kosher wines. So choose your favorite bubbles and don’t settle for inferior so-called cavas. For a very happy New Year, get the best wine you can afford and have a ball.Moët & Chandon Imperial BrutThe house of Moët & Chandon, which has been producing champagne since 1743, was one of the world’s first international brands.Today, it is still one of the most recognizable brands of champagne, synonymous with the most exclusive festivities.The house’s iconic champagne embodies Moët & Chandon’s unique style by its bright fruitiness, its seductive palate and elegant maturity. Moët Impérial can be served throughout the meal, from aperitif to dessert. NIS 219.For a very special event and an unforgettable experience, try one of the Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Collection imported to Israel. NIS 449 to NIS 649 Veuve Clicquot Yellow LabelVeuve Clicquot, founded in 1772, played an important role in establishing champagne as a favored drink of the haute bourgeoisie and nobility throughout Europe. The Brut Yellow Label reflects the superb vineyards owned by the house and the consistent nature of its style, with a predominance of Pinot Noir, a touch of Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, which adds the elegance and finesse. The Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label is a favorite of our family and is saved for very special occasions. NIS 390 to NIS 439.Denois Chardonnay Extra BrutJean-Louis Denois’s Extra Brut Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs is produced exclusively from Chardonnay. It has spent four years sur lattes (in bottles prior to disgorging), which is the reason for its depth and length (autolysis). It is a unique and remarkable alternative – not just to champagne but the best champagnes Blanc de Blancs.NIS 99.Look for more sparkling bargains at www.devine.co.il/champagne.Peter Jakob Kuhn Riesling Sekt Brut 2011Great sparkling wines made according to the classic method (or methode champenoise) are made outside France.Such is this Riesling Sekt (sparkling) Brut, available to registeredmembers of the Giaconda Club (www.giaconda.co.il). A very dry wine, it has been called “outrageous, grandiose and amazingly classy.” Other sparkling wines offered to members include Rebholz Pinot Noir Brut 2006 (NIS 195) and French Huet Vouvray Petillant Brut 2007 (NIS 140). Wine tastings, wine tours and workshops are held periodically for members at select restaurants.Call 052-663-6638 for more details.Vilarnau Brut ReserveDeliciously crisp and refreshing with a lively persistent mousse, this great value cava from Vilarnau, Spain, is definitely worth seeking out.Vilarnau Cava has subtle notes of brioche, fresh bread, apples and citrus aromas with notes of spice and a gentle earthy minerality and a nice minerally finish. Pale straw color, with medium-size bubbles. NIS 89Domaine Ste. Michelle Blanc de NoirsDomaine Ste. Michelle wines are made in Washington State’s acclaimed Columbia Valley, using the champagne method.The grapes ripen slowly and are ideally balanced with fruit character and crisp acidity.Blanc de Blancs is made primarily from Chardonnay. A very good value at NIS 70.Tommasi Tentura Filodora Proseco DOCMade from 100% Glera, this wine is a light straw yellow that is elegant, clean and spicy, with hints of acacia and wisteria flowers on the nose. Pleasantly intense, dry, easy to drink, with a light almond finish. NIS 75 Alfredo Prunotto Moscato d’AstiFor those looking for sweeter wine that is light in alcohol (5.5%), this wine from Piedmont is modern without being exaggerated. It has typical Moscato characteristics on the nose, with a gentle sparkle and a delicate sweetness lifting aromas of fresh grapes and spring flowers.Delicious with fruit and dessert. NIS 78.