With the new year nearly upon us, what better way to prepare than by looking at some classic food pairings for the ultimate New Year’s Eve drink – champagne. While many of us are usually satisfied with just a single glass for a New Year’s toast, the many special offers on at the moment mean that champagne is much more affordable and can be enjoyed a little more often.
Fabulous with seafood
The crisp, dry taste of a great champagne is perfect to cut through the richness of smoked salmon, scallops or a luxury fish pie. If you are pushing the boat out and treating yourself to lobster or oysters, the briny taste of these seafood delicacies is simply enhanced by a chilled glass of bubbly. Meanwhile, pairing champagne with the big, bold flavours of a whole fish or meaty fish steaks like turbot or monkfish is a combination not to be missed.
Turkey and truffles
Choose a classic vintage champagne to pair with turkey – one that is full-bodied will complement the richness of cranberry sauce and meaty gravy. If you are offering a vegetarian option, pasta or risotto sprinkled with slices of truffle or truffle oil will be a luxurious treat, especially served with a glass of champagne in elegantly engraved champagne flutes.
With dessert
Finally, the classic fruit richness of Christmas cake or mince pies is a perfect pairing with a demi-sec, whereas the sweetness of sugar-rich classics like macarons is made for the crisp, extra dry taste of a superb champagne.
Whichever combination you go for, a glass of champagne is the perfect way to welcome in the new year.