The weather was far from frightful which made my trek even more delightful. I walked east on Broad Ripple Avenue, passing many a credit card-clad shopper eagerly and happily disappearing into storefronts.
I gazed and smiled and kept walking, knowing full well that I too should be Christmas shopping. But I'm not. . . New Years Eve vibes call me so I head to the independently owned wine, beer and gourmet goodie shop in our Broad Ripple village. (Have you tried the utterly addictive Sticky Toffee Pudding yet?)
If I closed my eyes I would think I was in LA, where this moderate temperature is par for the course this time of year. But since I can't walk with my eyes closed, I didn't. Good thing, as I would have missed the two jet skiers on the White River whizzing by as I headed east. Yes, they wore wet suits, but a bigger YES to the reality of the moment. It's mid December in Indiana.
I did keep my "LA State of Mind", though, when I arrived at my destination. I wanted bubblies that were hot and happening - some of that West Coast bubble buzz to ring in 2007.
"What's up for New Year's?", I asked the married couple who are proprietors of this venue. "Anything new and fun?"
As usual Kaitlyn and Zinfandel's mom offered me many great tips on out-of-the-ordinary sparkling wines and champagnes to fill the glasses of my guests on Sunday night.
We both got giddy talking about the premiere offering of the luscious Nicolas Feuillatte champagne offered in single serve bottles and labeled as One Fo(u)r in both brut and rose styles. (Pommery POP lovers take note!)
These mini bottles for one or perhaps an intimate sipping for two are made from the same luxurious juice that goes into the full bottles of this French champagne.

Still looking? Then try the Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut- a classic rich, creamy, sparkling wine with hints of pear and vanilla. Widely available, value priced.
www.gloriaferrer.com

Here's one for the adventurous: "All Shook Up" from the Graceland Cellars in California. Man oh Man, it's Elvis baby. It's a semi-sweet sparkler that lives up to its name. 1-888-968-7946 to find Indiana availability.

Nicolas Feuillatte (NICK O Loss Foo Yaaay)

One Fo(u)r 187 ml bottles. (Individual bottles with fun wristband attached so you don't lose your bottle to swig at midnight. The next best place to put your lips if there isn't someone else to celebrate the New Year as the clock strikes twelve)
The blue bottled brut offers rich creamy almonds, vanilla, and minerals.
The pink bottled rose tempts with silky yet perky flavors of strawberry, raspberry and vanilla.
www.feuillatte.com