Prosecco Sparkles During the Holidays

If you're looking for an affordable alternative to champagne this holiday season, seek out Prosecco. This Italian cousin to our French favorite dates back to the late 18th century and is typically made from the Glera grape. In 2009 the Prosecco DOC (Certification of Controlled Origin) was established to ensure that the variety maintains high production standards. If you're looking for a sparkling wine that is fresh, fruity and fragrant (without being sweet), this is the bottle for you.

"Prosecco can give the perfect pop to any celebration, but especially at New Years! It's made in a light, fresh and fruity style that is great on its own for toasting in 2015 or even for New Years Day for a brunch beliini or mimosa. Ruffino Prosecco is a great quality sparkling wine that is easy on the wallet at under $15 a bottle," says EDGE's wine expert Kristen Siebecker.

Our friends at Ruffino offer up this refreshing cocktail that highlights the flavors of the season:

Ruffino Holiday Sparkler
3 oz. Ruffino Prosecco DOC
3/4 oz. apple cider
3/4 oz. cranberry juice
1 tsp. maple syrup
squeeze of 1 lemon wedge

Add ingredients directly to a mixing glass with ice and stir briefly. Strain into a chilled champagne flute that has been rimmed w/ cinnamon sugar. Garnish with a mint leaf floating on top.