As New Year’s Eve approaches, many are preparing to celebrate the arrival of 2025. One way to enhance the festivities is by curating a thoughtful beverage plan that pairs well with your celebration. From sophisticated cocktails to delightful wines and beers, there are options to suit every palate and occasion.
Tequila Cocktails to Start the Night
Kick off your evening with delicious hors d’oeuvres paired with standout tequila cocktails. Mini empanadas and ranch water make for a simple yet satisfying start. For a more robust option, consider taquitos complemented by a glass of reposado tequila on the rocks.
The Don Fulano Blanco, priced at $55, offers a light and flavorful profile, perfect for ranch water, which combines tequila, lime, and soda water. While the price is on the higher side, the quality ensures a memorable experience. Alternatively, savor the smoothness of Tequila Herradura Reposado at $45, known for its rich flavor profile due to its eleven-month aging process in charred American white oak barrels. This tequila offers a spicy finish that can be enjoyed neat or in cocktails.
Wines for Dinner Pairings
For those planning a sit-down dinner, selecting the right wine is essential. If your meal includes red sauce, cheese platters, or even pizza, consider San Felice’s Borgo Chianti Classico at $33. This wine features a sunny Tuscan essence, balancing fruitiness with a body that enhances winter dishes.
If your menu leans towards tapas or paella, explore options from Portugal. The Quinta Nova Unoaked Red, priced at $23, showcases a blend of northern grape varieties, delivering a flavor profile that is both bright and earthy without the heaviness of oak aging. Both wines are excellent choices that provide remarkable value and versatility.
Craft Beers for Casual Enjoyment
Beer lovers can choose from a variety of options that are equally delicious. For a hearty stew or soup, Jack’s Abby Extra Layer, available for $11 per four-pack, is a Munich-style winter lager that complements winter comfort foods.
If you prefer a breakfast brew, try the Wormtown Blizzard of ‘78 Winter at $12 per four-pack. This English-style brown ale is brewed with Acoustic Java roasted coffee beans, adding a touch of toastiness that pairs well with morning or late-night snacks.
After-Dinner Bourbon by the Fire
For those enjoying a cozy evening, a glass of bourbon can elevate the experience, even without a roaring fire. This season, consider Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Bourbon, priced at $60. Known for its versatility, it can be enjoyed in cocktails such as a Manhattan or Old Fashioned, or simply on the rocks.
Bourbon enthusiasts will also appreciate its smoothness, making it a delightful choice for unwinding after a festive meal.
Toast to the New Year with Sparkling Wines
As midnight approaches, a celebratory toast is a must. Instead of opting for an expensive bottle of champagne, consider more budget-friendly sparkling wines that still offer delightful flavors.
The 90+ Cellars Lot 228 Crémant D’Alsace, priced at $19, provides the same effervescence as traditional champagne, making it an excellent choice for a toast. Another great option is the Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Brut Cuvee at $20, known for its bright and fruity profile, perfect for cheers and pairing with late-night snacks.
With these thoughtfully curated beverage options, your New Year’s celebration can be elevated, ensuring that each moment is paired with the perfect drink. Whether you are hosting a large gathering or enjoying an intimate dinner, these selections promise to enhance the festivities as you welcome 2025.
