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The countdown is on, and with it comes the clinking of glasses, joyful toasts, and the hope that the year ahead brings even more reasons to celebrate. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner party, a spirited soirée, or keeping things cozy at home, having the best wines for New Year’s on hand sets the tone for a festive and memorable night.
From classic bubbles to bold reds and crisp whites, the perfect New Year’s wine complements your celebration style—and your guest list. Read on for expert wine tips, varietal recommendations, and curated picks from Kendall-Jackson to help you find your ideal New Year’s Eve wines.
New Year’s Wine Quick Tips
The best celebrations start with thoughtful planning—and the wine list is no exception. Here are a few expert tips to make sure your wine game is NYE-ready:
- Stock up on bubbles: Sparkling wine is the unofficial drink of New Year’s Eve for a reason—it’s joyful, versatile, and pairs beautifully with a wide range of bites. It’s also perfect for that midnight toast!
- Offer variety: A diverse selection ensures every guest finds their perfect pour. Offer a mix of red, white, sparkling, and rosé to keep things interesting and ensure everyone feels included in the celebration.
- Keep it chilled: Don't wait until the last minute to chill your wines! Whites, rosés, and bubbles show best when served cool, so make space in your fridge early—or use an ice bucket if things get crowded.
- Match wines to the mood and menu: Are you serving mostly finger foods? A sparkling or light white might be perfect. Serving steak or braised meats? Bold reds are your go-to. The right pairing elevates both the wine and the dish.
- Plan for quantity: Estimate about half a bottle per guest (or more if wine is the main event) to ensure you have plenty for toasts, food pairings, and—don’t forget—those post-midnight sips.
How to Choose Your New Year’s Wines
Choosing the best wine for New Year’s is easier than you think. The key is to pick wines that fit your celebration’s vibe and your guests’ preferences. Are you leaning into elegance, playfulness, or coziness? Will there be white-wine or red-wine lovers or both attending? There’s a Kendall-Jackson wine for every kind of NYE moment and every personal preference.
Sparkling Wines: The NYE Essential
Let’s be honest—no New Year’s Eve is complete without a little sparkle. Whether you’re popping bottles at midnight or sipping throughout the night, fizz makes things festive.
Beyond Summer: Why Rosé Belongs at Your NYE Party
Rosé isn’t just for summer—its versatility and vibrance make it a fantastic choice for New Year’s.
Rosé’s gorgeous pink color and fresh fruit flavors make it an eye-catching, palate-cleansing addition to any NYE wine lineup. It’s especially great with lighter fare, like canapés, salads, or even sushi.
The Best Red Wines for New Year’s
Red wine lovers, rejoice—New Year’s is a fantastic time to open something bold, smooth, or unexpectedly complex. These varietals are perfect for dinner or cozy fireside chats as the ball drops.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Rich and complex, Cabernet Sauvignon adds sophistication to any New Year’s table. Its bold notes of black currant, cedar, and vanilla balance beautifully with grilled meats and savory sides. It’s a classic choice for a sophisticated, sit-down New Year’s dinner.
Pinot Noir
For a lighter red option, Pinot Noir is a crowd-pleaser with its bright cherry and raspberry flavors. Its soft tannins, earthy undertones, and balanced acidity make it a versatile wine that pairs well with everything from salmon and mushroom dishes to roasted poultry.
Merlot
Smooth and approachable, Merlot is a classic choice for entertaining. Merlot offers rich fruit flavors and a velvety mouthfeel, making it ideal for everything from sliders and pasta to pizza and charcuterie.
Zinfandel
For a wine with personality, Zinfandel delivers bold berry flavors with notes of dark chocolate and spice. Pair it with smoky BBQ or even rich desserts like chocolate cake for a fun, unexpected pairing.
Shop Best Selling Red Wines from Kendall-Jackson
The Best White Wines for New Year’s
Bright, crisp, and elegant—white wines are a must-have at any New Year’s Eve gathering. Whether you're sipping before dinner or pairing with seafood, these varietals shine.
Chardonnay
From creamy and oaky to bright and citrusy, Chardonnay is a versatile white that can match anything from creamy pastas and crab cakes to crispy shrimp rolls and drunken noodles.
Sauvignon Blanc
Zesty and aromatic, Sauvignon Blanc brings refreshing citrus and herbal notes that pair wonderfully with appetizers, seafoods, and green salads. It’s the perfect pour to kick off the evening on a light note.
Chenin Blanc
Impress your guests with the less common but super tasty Chenin Blanc. Crisp and fresh with green apple, pear, and grapefruit flavors, it pairs seamlessly with crab dishes, a Thai mango salad, or pan-fried sole with lemon.
Riesling
If you’re looking for something semi-sweet, Riesling delivers with its delicate balance of sweetness, acidity, and stone fruit flavors. It balances spicy dishes and complements desserts—and it’s a great surprise addition to your NYE lineup.
Pinot Gris
Crisp and versatile, Pinot Gris has floral aromas and hints of melon, making it a risk-free partner for appetizers like cheese and crackers, seafood, and salads.
Shop Best Selling White Wines from Kendall-Jackson
Cheat Sheet: Pairing Wine with New Year's Dishes
| Dish | Wine Pairing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oysters | Sparkling Wine | Bracing acidity and bubbles cleanse the palate and enhance brininess. |
| Prime Rib | Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah | Full-bodied reds match the bold, savory flavors of the beef. |
| Crab Legs or Lobster | Chardonnay (preferably oaked) | Chardonnay’s richness complements buttery shellfish; bubbles add freshness. |
| Caviar | Sparkling Wine or Dry Rosé | High acidity and fine bubbles enhance the delicate saltiness. |
| Pork Roast with Sauerkraut | Riesling | Light sweetness and acidity cut through the tang and fat. |
| Stuffed Mushrooms | Pinot Noir or Chardonnay | Earthy, savory components work well with balanced, food-friendly wines. |
| Prosciutto-Wrapped Figs or Dates | Zinfandel | Sweet and salty flavors pair well with bold reds or effervescent rosés. |
| Cheese Fondue | Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, or a Dry Sparkling Wine | Crisp, refreshing whites balance the richness of melted cheese. |
| Charcuterie | Rosé, Pinot Noir, or Sparkling Wine | Versatile pairings that complement salty meats and a range of cheese textures. |
| New Year's Day Brunch (Eggs Benedict, Quiche) | Sparkling Wine, Rosé, or Chardonnay | Versatile wines with bright acidity handle eggs, butter, and herbs beautifully. |
Make Your NYE Party a Hit with Kendall-Jackson Wines
No matter how you celebrate, Kendall-Jackson has the New Year’s Eve wines to match your plans—from sparkling to still, light to bold. With our wide portfolio of varietals and styles, finding the best wines for New Year’s is easier and more fun than ever.
Avoid the last-minute grocery store trip and shop our full collection online—delivered straight to your door, right on time for the countdown. And remember to chill your white, rosé, and sparkling wines as soon as you receive them so you can be New Year’s Eve-ready!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best all-around wine for New Year’s Eve?
Hands down, sparkling wine is your best bet. It’s festive, food-friendly, and perfect for toasts. A brut-style sparkler like Kendall-Jackson’s Brut Reserve Sparkling Wine offers wide appeal and celebratory charm.
What are the best wines to pair with New Year’s Eve dinner?
Match your wine to the main course. Serve bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon with hearty dishes or refreshing whites like Chardonnay with lighter fare. We suggest having both on hand to appeal to red-wine and white-wine lovers alike.
What factors should I consider when choosing wine for a New Year’s celebration?
Think about your menu, the size of your crowd, and the overall vibe. Offering a variety—sparkling, white, red, and rosé—ensures there’s something for everyone, no matter their preference.
Should I offer a variety of wines or stick to one type for New Year’s?
Variety is ideal for larger gatherings, ensuring every guest finds something they enjoy. For smaller groups, a well-chosen sparkling wine and one red and one white will suffice.
