Bubbles Beyond Wine
Five delicious non-alcoholic sparkling teas, ciders, and cocktails to celebrate the holidays.
As a sommelier, I vividly remember a family of three who came into the restaurant where I was working at the time. They were seated 45 minutes late, but, uncharacteristically, they didn’t complain—though the older man had a sour look on his face. I knew just what might turn their evening around: bubbles.
After they were seated, I quickly placed three flutes in front of them and produced a bottle of Champagne. “I know waiting wasn’t fun,” I said, “but who doesn’t think Champagne is fun?”
The older man winced and replied flatly, “Me. I don’t think Champagne is fun.” His wife and son both looked aghast, his wife squirming in her seat. Without missing a beat, I poured glasses for his family, removed his, and retorted with a grin, “You, sir, are no fun,” before walking away.
All things considered, I probably should have realized that bubbles just weren’t his thing. Maybe it was heartburn, though the big red wine he paired with his fish suggested otherwise. I suspected he just didn’t want to turn the corner. Eventually, he did, and I found him a glass of wine he truly loved.
That experience got me thinking: if you’re not drinking Champagne—or non-alcoholic sparkling wine—what then do you drink? If you’re thinking the same thing, I have you covered. Here are eight of my favorite bubbly alternatives that are perfect for any occasion.
