Dos & Don’ts of Drinking Champagne

Nigeria is one the biggest champagne markets, and Nigerians are not slowing down in their consumption of the luxury sparkling wine from France.

However, one question that lingers steadily is if we are consuming champagne in the right way. While many Nigerians look forward to the end of the year when weddings and concerts will mean more champagne to be drunk, there are certain dos and donts experts from the House of Champagne Lanson have offered.

Dos on how to enjoy a glass of bubbly

Store Properly

Storing champagne properly simply means keeping it in cool, dry place. While it is normal for most people to store their champagne in the fridge, it is always best to have a wine cellar. Where there is no wine cellar, experts informed  The Daily Mail that the bottom of the wardrobe and a household cupboard are ideal alternatives.

Serve in the Right Glass

The reason why champagne is served in a fruit rather than other drinking glasses simply boils down to the bubbles. The sparkling bubbles in champagne are more likely to disappear faster when poured in a glass with a wider rim. Serving it in a flute glass will not only retain the bubbles but will also allow the flavours to be more concentrated.

Pair with Dessert

Rather than offering champagne only as a welcome drink at an event, experts advise that it should be paired with a portion of the meal. This is a much lighter, and fresher alternative to sweet dessert wine according to experts.

Don’ts

Drink champagne by itself always

Once in a while, mix your champagne with mint or lemon peel to enhance the flavour. Many people shy away from mixing champagne but experts say that as long as you are experimenting with other types of alcohol, you can also do same with champagne.

Fill a glass at once

Never pour an entire glass of champagne in one go. Experts advise that when pouring your champagne, it is ideal to first pour an inch into the glass and allow the foam to settle. Once the foam settles, you can then fill up the rest of the glass until it’s been filled two-thirds.

Chill champagne for long

Champagne is not pleasant to drink if it’s too cold expert claim. Therefore, it’s best to place your bottle of champagne in an ice bucket for around 30 minutes before serving to guests as opposed to chilling for long hours in the fridge.

Serve for special days

Except it’s a vintage champagne, most champagnes are sold during the time it is ideal for consumption. So it’s best to consume your champagne immediately after purchase, rather than keep it for years before popping.