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People in our Valley often express to me how they “feel the pressure” when it comes to purchasing wines for a large group of people. It can be a bit intimidating to walk into a grocery store or wine shop and stare at the hundreds or even thousands of selections on the shelves.

The diversity of the people attending the party can be another great challenge. The more people who attend, the more variety you must have on hand. Every New Year’s Eve party has a “wine snob” or two on hand, so we need to have something to satisfy their discerning palates too.

I’m sure there are a few folks reading this article right now, who still need to get to the store and make their New Year’s Eve wine purchases. To help you out, I visited a couple of local grocery stores this week and found some nice wines being offered at impressive discounts.

You should be able to walk into your local store and pull these wines off of the shelves no matter where you live in our Valley.

Sparkling Wines

Bubbly is the best way to start and finish your party. Offer your guests a glass of one of these sparklers as they enter your home:

Chandon Brut Classic or Chandon Rose’ $20: Bright and fruity with a great finish

Cupcake Moscato Di Asti $10 : Will please your guests who like sweeter wine

The Whites

These wines will go great with a multitude of the appetizers and finger foods you may be serving. Seafood such as crab and shrimp will match up well, along with most fruits, veggies, and dips on your table.

2013 Chateau Ste. Michelle Sauvignon Blanc $11: Light, crisp and refreshing with citrus fruits

2013 Ruffino “Lumina” Pinot Grigio $9: Lush and round with tropical fruit flavors

2012 Rodney Strong Sonoma County Chardonnay $12: Fresh and full with orchard fruits and butter

The Reds

These are three distinctly different reds to satisfy a diverse group of party goers. The Pinot Noir is mellow, the Shiraz Blend bold and spicy and the Cabernet shows wonderful fruits and moderate spice.

The 2012 Estancia Monterrey Pinot Noir $15: Elegant and delicate with berry fruits

2013 19 Crimes Shiraz Blend $11: Bold and spicy with dark fruit flavors and black pepper

2012 Geyser Peak California Cabernet $13: Well balanced with red cherry, cassis and a hint of spice

Champagne

Get ready for the grand finale with a couple bottles of authentic French Champagne. I was impressed to see one of my favorites at all the stores I visited.

GH Mumm Cordon Rouge $45: A True French classic with white peach, pear and aromas of fresh baked bread.

Happy New Year to all the readers of the Drinks Column and Blog!