HAPPY NEW CHEERS

Rosamund Hall picks a selection of the best wines and spirits for New Year's Eve – from champagne bargains to party reds

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I love this time of year, when the dust has settled on Christmas and you're existing in a haze of leftovers and Quality Street.

There are a few days before welcoming in the new year, and, hopefully, you've long relinquished the expectation of having an amazing New Year's Eve and will be celebrating in whatever way brings you joy. Whether you like to be in your PJs by 7pm, looking forward to some Jools and friends and cooking up a feast, or hosting a stellar all-night party complete with bathtub bars, I've got some wine inspiration to help.

I've selected 26 of the best drinks to choose from this evening – from pinot noir to vermouth and crémant. I've gone heavy on the fizz, as, while you never need an excuse to drink something sparkling – I'm firmly in the mould of Madame Bollinger when it comes to champagne – New Year's Eve always feels like a wonderful reason to crack open a bottle.

Helpfully, in the dying embers of 2025, there are some sparkling deals to be had. Whatever you end up doing, I'm wishing you and yours a very happy new year, filled with joy, which for me definitely includes a lovely glass in the company of good people. Cheers to that!

Comte de Senneval champagne brut, France, NV

Lidl, £9.99 (with Lidl Plus card, usual price £13.99), 12.5%

If you want champagne at prosecco prices, then this is the deal for you. It's an uncomplicated, enjoyable, good party pour with appealing notes of citrus and warming toasty notes.

Les Pionniers champagne brut, France, NV

Coop, £15 (with member's card until 02.01.26, usual price £21.75), 12.5%