A Complete Champagne Guide For Your Next Dinner Party
Sipping bubbly is one of life’s great delights, so I created a champagne guide with everything you need to know about how to select and serve it at your next dinner party.
I don’t drink often and when I do it’s only wine, but I’ve increasingly found myself skipping my go-to reds and whites for a glass of champagne. Not only is it incredibly delicious and refreshing, but there’s something about those beautiful bubbles in the light gold hue that’s pure bliss. Because of that, I don’t reserve champagne just for special occasions, but anytime I want to celebrate life. Guiliana sums it up perfectly in her book:
To me champagne is magic. It’s also a supremely feminine wine. I love everything about it: the seductive honey color, the tiny bubbles (they should dance for you), the scents and tastes (citrus, pear, apple, dried fruit, brioche), the lovely, long, yeasty aftertaste. I love the mood champagne creates, the feeling no other wine can come close to: celebration, life-affirming joy.
Mireille Guiliano, Former CEO of Veuve Clicquot
When it comes to hosting a memorable dinner party, few things elevate the experience quite like a bottle of champagne. The effervescence, the pop of the cork, and the celebratory ambiance make champagne a timeless choice. Whether you're a seasoned champagne enthusiast or a novice looking to impress your guests, this complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about champagne, from what it is to how to serve and pair it.
In addition to referencing this for your next gathering or event, it’s also useful for selecting and ordering champagne at restaurants. As a bonus, I’ve also included an edit of my favorite champagne essentials at the end of the guide. As always, we only recommend high-quality goods we love and think you will too, and may receive a small commission if you indulge in a suggested product.
What is Champagne?
Let’s start with the basics. The word champagne is French for “white from whites.” It is a sparkling wine that hails from the Champagne region of France, and no other sparkling wine can designate itself as champagne unless it was produced exclusively in this region. Nevertheless, the term has become ubiquitous and it’s common for other sparkling wines to be mistakenly called champagne. However, other notable regions have their own terms such as Prosecco in Italy and Cava in Spain.
Champagne is known for its effervescence, distinguished flavor, and association with sophistication and celebration. However, anyone can and should enjoy champagne at any time for any reason. The grape varieties used in champagne production are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
How is Champagne Made?
Champagne is produced using a unique wine-making process called the méthode champenoise or traditional method under appellation rules. First, grapes are picked and fermented. Then a mixture of sugar and yeast is added before sealing the bottle. This secondary fermentation creates the carbonation. After the aging process, all of the sediment is removed and the bottles are stored upside down. Lastly, a mixture of sugar, wine, and brandy is added before corking to determine the sweetness level. Every champagne house keeps their process a closely held secret.
How to Choose Champagne?
Trying to determine the “best” champagne is definitely not easy because there are so many varieties available. To simplify the process, consider your taste preferences, the occasion, and of course your budget. Or just experiment until you find what you love. Champagne is available in three main sweetness levels including Brut (dry), Demi-Sec (semi-sweet), and Doux (sweet), and several styles including Blanc de Blancs (Chardonnay), Blanc de Noirs (Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier), and Rose (a blend), which correspond with the grapes used.
Champagne also has three aging categories: Non-Vintage, Vintage, and Multi-Vintage. The aging process develops the color, aroma, taste and overall character of the champagne. Vintages age for at least three years before they are sold. Multi-Vintage Champagne is produced by blending grapes from different years, and Non-Vintage Champagne is aged for only 15-18 months. The aging category affects the price of the Champagne, with Vintages being the most expensive.
Finally, you can also refer to the classification system that is used to categorize the quality and reputation of the different vineyards where champagne is produced. Grand Cru is the highest classification and considered the region’s finest. Premier Cru is the second-highest distinction and Autre Cru the lowest. You may choose to reserve bottles of Grand Cru for special occasions (or not!) as these have the highest price points.
My Favorite Champagne Brand
This is clearly subjective, but my favorite champagne house is Veuve Clicquot. The house was founded in 1772 by Madame Clicquot who is considered the grand dame of champagne. The House of Veuve Clicquot invented the first known Vintage and first blended Rose champagne. The majority of Veuve Clicquot vineyards are classified as Grands or Premiers Crus, a testament to its history and consistent quality. The Brut Yellow Label is their signature champagne, and scores at least 90/100 points across the leading wine authorities. It’s delicious, versatile, reasonably priced, and my go-to.
When to Serve Champagne?
Although champagne is often associated with celebrations, it is versatile enough to be enjoyed on various occasions. It's just as perfect for toasting during a dinner party or honoring achievements as it is for simply elevating a casual get-together. Champagne can also be served at any point during a meal. It can be an aperitif, paired with the main course, or served as an accompaniment to dessert.
My only rule for drinking champagne, or any alcohol for matter, is to always have it with food. Trust me, you’ll avoid the infamous champagne headache and hangover. Champagne also makes the most perfect food pairing as it’s compatible with just about anything. Unlike reds and whites which require some thought and technique to get it right, champagne is incredibly versatile and a nice brut complements most food groups.
What Champagne Glasses to Use?
There is no right or wrong when it comes to choosing wine glasses, however the choice of glassware can impact your champagne experience. I recommend not only selecting a glass type that suits your aesthetic preferences, but also learning how the different shapes can influence the visual, smell, and taste. The three common types of champagne glasses are the coupe, flute, and tulip. I enjoy using all three glass types. Regardless of the glass, it’s best to securely hold a champagne glass under the base right at the top of stem so you don’t warm it with your fingers.
Coupes were the original champagne glasses and have a broad rim, shallow bowl and short stem. Aesthetically they are quite chic, however the design does cause the bubbles to dissipate more easily. Flutes are the iconic glasses most people associate with champagne. The slim, narrow and long design became more popular as it’s deemed to be better at preserving the fizz and flavor. Tulips take their name and design from the flower and are similar in design to white wine glasses. Many sommeliers and wine professionals believe flutes are too narrow to properly swirl and fully activate the aroma, so recommend tulips.
How to Open and Serve Champagne?
Many people find opening and handling a champagne bottle to be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. It goes without saying that you should not ever shake the bottle. Start by removing the foil and the wire cage that fits over the cork (this is to prevent it from popping under pressure). Hold the cork firmly, angle and begin to twist the bottle (not the cork) with a towel at the base cork. Apply gentle pressure, and with a slight hiss the bottle will be open, and neither the cork or contents will go flying. An alternative, and more theatrical way, is to hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle and saber it.
It is important to chill champaign and serve it cold, so store bottles in the refrigerator for at least a few hours prior to your dinner party. When pouring champagne, hold the bottle in your dominant hand with your thumb in the indent at the bottom (called the punt) and fingers spread around the base for stability. In the other hand, hold the glass by the stem at the base of the rim and tilt it at an angle. Pour slowly to minimize foam. Fill the glass to about two-thirds full to allow room for the aroma to develop.
When sipping champagne I prefer to place my lips on the same part of the glass, especially if I’m wearing any lipstick, to avoid having lip prints over the glass. When toasting, make eye contact with each person as this gesture signifies sincerity and enhances the connection. If at a more formal dinner, the champagne glass should sit at the right of the water glass.
How to Store a Champagne Bottle?
Unopened bottles of champagne should be stored on their side in a cool dark place. If stored properly they can last around five years from the release date, with Vintages lasting a few years longer. When serving, place the open bottle in an ice bucket or wine holder so that it remains chilled. To preserve the quality of an opened bottle that you are no longer serving, seal the bottle with a champagne stopper to maintain carbonation. Store the opened bottle in the refrigerator to slow down oxidation and consume it within a day or two.
My Favorite Champagne Cocktail
I rarely consume liquor, but for special occasions I love making a simple but delicious champagne cocktail. I pour just a splash of St. Germain into a chilled champagne glass then top with Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label. To make it festive, I’ll sometimes garnish the glass with an orange peel. In the summer, I’ll turn it into a spritzer by adding a splash of Pellegrino sparkling water. St. Germain is a delicious French liqueur made 100% from elderflowers handpicked in spring. It has a natural sweetness, a gorgeous golden hue, and contains no artificial ingredients. The bottle is also beautiful, and it’s just the perfect addition for elevating any event.
Champagne Essentials for Your Home
By incorporating these champagne essentials into your bar collection, you can elevate the experience and share the love of this sparkling beverage with sophistication and style.
The Impossible Collection of Champagne by Assouline
This stunning volume, highlighting the 100 most exceptional bottles of champagne, is a must-have for any champagne enthusiast. Luxuriously bounded and presented in a sturdy wooden crate, it makes the perfect statement interior piece and collector’s edition.
Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label
There’s a reason this is the best-selling champagne in the US, it’s the epitome of quality. The signature champagne offering of the house, it has a subtle fruity aroma and mild, creamy taste. It can be paired with just about anything and is balanced, fresh and delicious.
Made In Champagne Saber
The average person doesn’t need a champagne sword (aka saber). I do not own one, and likely never will. However, they are beautifully designed instruments so I included one for indulgence’s sake. If you are a champagne enthusiast looking to make a statement at your next party, then go for it!
Georg Jensen Wine Holder
Since you’ll have this sitting out on the table the entire night, why not choose one that is beautiful and functional? This mirror-polished stainless steel wine holder will be a conversation starter, in and of itself.
Villeroy & Boch Champagne Flute
These flutes are composed of fine crystal and have a lovely curved silhouette. They come in a set of four and are an elegant addition to any stemware collection.
Acadia Tray by Arhaus
Spruce up your party presentation with this durable tray that comes in an antique brass finish. The twig motifs make it even more charming and a classy way to set out champagne glasses for guests.
Le Creuset Champagne Crown Sealer
This high-quality champagne stopper is legit. It can keep your bottle fresh for days with its airtight seal. Bonus points for being designed in an eye-catching black nickel. Buy one for yourself and to gift the host of the next party you attend.
St. German Elderflower Liqueur
This delicious liqueur is perfect for crafting simple champaign cocktails. It’s made from 100% elderflower and is natural and gluten-free. The luxe bottle is a plus and it’s become my go-to when I want to be a little more festive.
Recommended Books About Champagne
The Widow Clicquot: The Story of a Champagne Empire and the Woman Who Ruled It by Tilar J. Mazzeo: A biography of Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin, one of the pioneering figures in the champagne industry.
Champagne: How the World's Most Glamorous Wine Triumphed Over War and Hard Times by Don and Petie Kladstrup: Chronicles the history of champagne and its resilience through challenging times.
The Finest Wines of Champagne: A Guide to the Best Cuvées, Houses, and Grower by Michael Edwards:Offers insights into the best champagne cuvées, houses, and growers, providing a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts.
Press for Champagne: A Guide To Enjoying The World's Greatest Sparkling Wine by Christopher Ruhland: Leads you through a personal discovery of Champagne that removes the barriers to maximizing the joy Champagne has to offer you.
