What are we drinking in the Hamptons to welcome 2011?
Classic champagnes, of course. My choices this time around:
Perrier Jouet Fleur. Extraordinary champagne in the art nouveau painted bottle that communicates celebration.
Ruinart. Sophisticated, highly refined (especially the rosé) champagne in a distinctive stout, curved bottle.
Henriot. With a 200-year history in the Champagne region, this exquisite wine has always been a French favorite.
Along with some unexpected bubblies:
Sparkling Pointe. Made on Long Island by Gilles Martin in an exemplary French manner. A dazzling achievement.
Wolffer Estate. Noblesse Oblige, a delightful rosé sparkling wine, produced close to home in an international style.
Bedell Cellars. Blanc de blanc, as breezy and fresh as the gorgeous April Gornik label showing ocean waves.