"That stone thingy looks like a champagne flute" I hear myself say as I drive south on College. The sun set about fifteen minutes ago, and now that delicious afterglow of seashell pink, soft gray and muted burnt sienna (check your Crayola box for that color reference) fills the sky. The tiles on the sculpture (i.e. stone thingy) both reflect and envelop the hazy but true colors being cast, and the back lighting makes its outline look like a champagne flute - especially if you're a sparkling wine fan. I am.

And if you're not, then come to this pep rally and be inspired.

Most of us only drink bubbly at New Year's Eve parties or weddings. BAD CHOICES.

New Year's Eve, for most means imbibing various spirits before the midnight strike and champagne toast - hence, 6 hours of Bud Light or rum and coke or Cabernet Sauvignon, then a glass of champagne. No wonder your taste buds put up a white flag. Wedding dinners pair sparkling wines with the cake. You and your friends are already pressured to make the correct bet as to whether or not the bride will shove a piece of that super sweet, super expensive wedding cake into her new husband's face. When you must also drink a glass of what is probably a delectable slightly dry delicious bubbly with a slice of that butter cream-frosted bridal weapon. . . yikes! The uber sweetness of the cake kills your drinking palate, so the bubbles become more trouble than treat. No more you say!!!

I write this four days before the Super Bowl as my editor deems deadline tonight. In addition to her two day jobs and her BRG gig, I also know she must photo more Broad Ripplians sleeping on pool tables. . . so I can't give you a list of bubblies to drink in victory for the Colts. I think that inspirational BLUE tiled stone thingy is an omen for a win, however, I know it is for what's in the glass, and that goes for victory drink or dinner.

See things in a different light. Give your tortured taste buds a chance with these affordable (under $12), widely available sparkling wines.

Freixenet Cava- Look for the black bottle with the gold printing. Drink it with Pad Thai noodles, shrimp scampi, Pizza Quattro Formaggio, falafel.

Martini & Rossi Prosecco- Light, fresh crisp "giggles" awaken your senses to anything on your plate - figuratively and literally. The Italians know romance, and this one is a scene setter. If you want rich, lush, sweet Italian sparkling, then go for the Martini & Rossi Asti Spumante.

Easley Winery American Champagne- Softly fruity, fresh, frisky blend that makes for delicious treat with antipasto platter, Cajun gumbo, popcorn.