Sparkling into the new year

Previsionistes (that’s what my Paris friend Luis calls those who anticipate the future) should have a few bottles of bubbly already tucked away -- for the new year, or any other suitable occasion. Those who do not, which is quite possibly most of us, should go shopping. Now. Don’t wait for New Year’s Eve when wine clerks’ patience is running short and stocks are depleted. Here are a few to hunt down to ring in the new year or keep on hand for that unforeseen something to celebrate.

If you’re bent on splurging, you can’t go wrong with Champagne Krug’s opulent multivintage Grande Cuvee. Creamy and bright, with a finish that just goes on and on, its exquisite balance and sheer splendor more than offsets the price.

The 1998 Champagne Larmandier-Bernier from old vines in the grand cru village of Cramant has an impressive elegance and finesse. Think of it as an impeccable Chardonnay laced with the finest bubbles. A Champagne for contemplation.

Lastly, consider prosecco, the sparkling wine from Italy’s Veneto. The Mionetta family has been making prosecco since 1867. Based on an old formula, “Sergio” blends two indigenous grapes with the normal prosecco to produce a sparkling wine that’s both crisp and ripe in taste.

-- S. Irene Virbila

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Quick swirl: Champagne Krug Grande Cuvee nonvintage brut

Region: Champagne

Price: $100

Style: Yeasty and opulent

Where you find it: Available at fine wine retailers.

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Quick swirl: 1998 Champagne Larmandier-Bernier Vieille Vigne de Cramant Grand Cru

Region: Champagne

Price: About $60

Style: Elegant and refined

Where you find it: Wine Expo, Santa Monica, (310) 828-4428.

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Quick swirl: Mionetto Vineyards Sergio Spumante Prosecco de Valdobiaddenne

Region: Veneto

Price: $18

Style: Crisp and ripe

Where you find it: Silverlake Wine in Los Angeles, (323) 662-9024.