Toast 2013 All Year Long At These 7 Sophisticated Champagne Lounges (PHOTOS)

Legend has it that when Dom Perignon first discovered champagne, he called out, "Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!" It's hard to disagree with the Frenchman -- a cool glass of bubbly can make even the most stoic person let loose a giggle or a smirk.
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Legend has it that when Dom Perignon first discovered champagne, he called out, "Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!" It's hard to disagree with the Frenchman -- a cool glass of bubbly can make even the most stoic person let loose a giggle or a smirk.

The best place to enjoy a flute of the stars themselves? In a swanky champagne bar in the comfort of your very own hotel, of course! On-site champagne lounges provide uniquely festive ambiances and make stumbling home post-festivities all the easier.

Some of our favorite luxury hotels feature these sophisticated spots, so sit back, pop open a bottle of bubbly and get ready to ring in the new year -- or celebrate any special occasion, for that matter -- at these swanky lounges.

--Kristina Fazzalaro, Oyster.com

Toast 2013 All Year Long at these 7 Sophisticated Champagne Lounges
Winston’s Champagne Bar at the Gansevoort Park Avenue, New York City(01 of07)
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This “ornate little lair,” as the New York Times called it, is the perfect spot to ring in 2013 in New York City — or to celebrate any special occasion, for that matter. The exclusive atmosphere oozes sophistication and style. Visitors can choose from an excellent selection of bruts and roses, sold by the glass or the bottle. See more photos of the Gansevoort Park Avenue here >>
PJ Lounge at the Dukes Hotel, London(02 of07)
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While Dukes may be famous for its martinis — James Bond-creator Ian Flemming originated the famous “Shaken, not stirred” line here — its newest addition to the fold is serving up the finest champagne and champagne cocktails. The Perrier-Jouet Champagne Lounge (or, more simply, the PJ Lounge) is a stylish space, outfitted in rich greens, with bright pops of pinks and whites, to sip some bubbly. The bar is classic and playful all at once, just as any special affair should be.See more photos of Dukes here >>
Champagne Lounge at the InterContinental New Orleans (03 of07)
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Everything about this New Orleans locale is a bit surprising. At Soffaim, you won’t see a po-boy or rum-soaked hurricane in sight; instead, guests are treated to a delicious offering of Middle Eastern cuisine — Chef Klaus Hoppel has been praised for his lamb sliders — and a variety of titillating champagnes.See more photos of the InterContinental New Orleans here >>
Nightly Champagne Ritual at the St. Regis Washington D.C.(04 of07)
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The most unique feature at this luxe stay is the nightly “Champagne Sabering Ritual.” Every day at 6 p.m. (5 p.m. during the spring and summer), a wine server makes a loud announcement to the effect of, “Ladies and gentleman: On this, the 21st day of December, we mark the occasion with the pouring of our ceremonial champagne…” Then she pops the cork and pours glasses for everyone who wants one. All in all, a lot of pomp for very little circumstance. But hey, if this is what they do in DC every night, can you imagine what they do on special occasions?See more photos of the St. Regis Washington D.C. here >>
Leopard Champagne Lounge at Rubens at the Palace, London(05 of07)
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This charming hotel near Buckingham Palace offers a chic spot to celebrate. The Leopard Champagne Bar sports safari-print cushions and oak paneling, creating a slightly clubby vibe. In addition to a selection of champagnes, the bar also provides a menu of fine wines, whiskeys, cognacs, and armagnacs, as well as caviar and oysters.See more photos of Rubens at the Palace here >>
The Champagne Bar at The Plaza, New York City(06 of07)
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The most exclusive of The Plaza’s dining establishments, the Champagne Bar is a favorite stop for today’s society darlings. Everyone from the Prince of Wales to Diamond Jim Brady has visited since its opening — originally the Champagne Porch, in 1907 — to indulge in the world’s finest champagne and caviar, all while overlooking Fifth Avenue. By day, the space doubles as a gourmet pastry and coffee spot.See more photos of The Plaza here >>
Le Salon de Champagne at The Arch London(07 of07)
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This luxurious boutique in London emphasizes design without sacrificing quality or service. Spaces — such as the lovely Salon de Champagne — have a bold sophistication, classy personality, and subtle playfulness that keep guests comfortable and entertained. This sexy lounge features original custom chairs designed by Tom Dixon, a graffiti ceiling with champagne quotes and tasting notes, and art pieces by emerging British artists.See more photos of The Arch London here >>

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