THE POUR

Can you believe it’s almost New Year’s Eve? Before your mind spins out of control about your plans and hopes for 2019, consider this brainteaser: why will millions of people around the world hold a glass of Champagne to ring in the New Year when the clock strikes midnight on January 1?

• How did the tradition start?
• Why is Champagne so closely associated with celebration?
• What’s the difference between Champagne and sparkling wine?

December 31st is National Champagne Day, so what better time to learn the ins and outs of this noteworthy beverage of glistening occasions? Let’s dig into these questions so you’re ready for the New Year’s Eve party and a full year of celebration-worthy events.

“Can you grab us some wine glasses?” your friend asks as she opens a bottle in the other room. Then, you open the cabinet and realize you had no idea how many types of wine glasses there are.

There are actually six main types of wine glasses to suit different kinds of wine and some of those have three or four subtypes!

No, it’s not overkill or just for looks. Depending on what you’re drinking, you want different shapes of wine glasses to highlight the features of each different type of wine. Let’s take a look at the main types of wine glasses and why they matter for your drinking experience.

Weekends are made for mimosas — champagne and citrus served up on with a side of cheer. While good ole orange juice is always a great way to brighten your day with a dose of vitamin C, why not branch out for your next round of mimosas with these three extra-ordinary versions on the classic? Try these. They're perfect for summer brunch gatherings with friends, or just the two of you. Cheers!

"In a perfect world, everyone would have a glass of Champagne every evening" – Willie Gluckstern

Champagne is a sparkling wine made in the region of Champagne, France from the grapes of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, and is one of the world's most beloved wines. If celebrating is on your "to do" list, then be sure you have the right bubbles for the occasion. What are the best Champagne brands?

There is nothing quite like the "pop" of a bottle of champagne or sparkling wine - the anticipation, the ritual, the celebration. During the holiday season, it's estimated that Americans will consume more than 360 million glasses of sparkling wine or champagne. Unfortunately, though, opening a bottle of bubbly can be messy and even cause injury if you're not careful. So, it's important to learn how to open champagne safely.