Things you are doing wrong with Champagne | QelviQ

If you are not chilling your champagne properly, opening the bottle incorrectly, pouring the champagne wrong, drinking it at the right temperature, or storing it correctly, then you are not enjoying champagne to its fullest potential. Follow our tips and tricks and you will be sure to enjoy your next glass of bubbly like a true connoisseur.

You are not storing it correctly

Properly storing Champagne is key to getting the most out of your bubbly. Here are a few simple tips for keeping your bottle in perfect condition:

First, make sure you store it upright and away from heat sources. Heat can cause pressure to build up inside the bottle, leading to an unpleasant explosion. If possible, keep your Champagne in a cool, dark place such as a cellar or wine refrigerator.

Next, try not to move the bottle too much while it's stored—too much jostling can cause the cork to come loose and let air into the bottle. This causes oxidation and will dramatically affect the flavor.

Finally, don't forget about temperature consistency when storing. It's important to keep the temperature consistent so that your Champagne doesn't start heating up and cooling down over time. This will ensure it stays in great shape until you're ready to enjoy it!

You are pouring the champagne wrong

Pouring champagne wrong might not seem like a big deal but it can actually make a huge difference! If the champagne was poured incorrectly, you won't get to experience the wonder of watching bubbles race up the sides of your glass. On top of that, incorrect pouring could cause some of the champagne to go flat before you can even enjoy a sip. Follow the "45 degree rule" when pouring champagne - angle your bottle in a 45 degree angle and pour slowly down the side of your glass for an visually appealing and deliciously bubbly beverage.

You are opening the bottle incorrectly

Believe it or not, it actually matters how you open a bottle. You can't just pull the lid off and expect that to be the correct way - there's actually a technique that helps you get it off smoothly without making a mess or spilling liquid everywhere! It might take a few tries to master the art of opening the bottle correctly, but once you do, it will become second nature. I'd be remiss if I didn't also mention that curling your index finger over and pressing down as you twist off can make the process much easier. Give it a try next time you open one and see how much smoother the process is!

You are not serving your champagne at the correct temperature

You may think you know all there is to know about popping open a bottle of Champagne, but if you're not chilling it properly first, then you're not making the most of your bubbly. The ideal serving temperature for champagne is between 45 - 55 degrees Fahrenheit to help preserve its flavor profile and complexity. Too cold and you risk dulling its aromatic qualities, too warm and you might end up with some flat bubbles! So it pays to get your temp just right in order to get the best out of any bottle.

You are serving it in the wrong glasses

When it comes to champagne, there's nothing more satisfying than sipping a glass of the bubbly beverage - but what you may not know is that serving the drink in the right glass can make all the difference.

A champagne flute is a traditional choice for serving up your favorite bubbly beverage. It's tall and slender shape makes it perfect for showcasing the effervescence of champagne, as well as its unique aroma. The flute also ensures that you’ll be able to enjoy all of the carbonation before it dissipates from the glass.

The coupe, on the other hand, has a wide bowl-like shape and short stem—which gives it an elegant aesthetic. This type of glass lets the drinker experience more of their champagne’s aromas than a flute can offer by allowing them to bring their nose closer to the drink. But you might loose some of the bubbles quicker so the champagne tastes flatter.

Meanwhile, the tulip-shaped champagne glass is a hybrid between the two. This design has a wider base that gradually tapers up to form a narrower lip. Thanks to its unique shape, it offers the best of both worlds—a narrow brim for preserving bubbles and aromas as well as plenty of room at the bottom for swirling your drink. The tulip glass gives you full control over each sip so you can savor every last drop of your favorite bubbly.

Finally, if you are enjoying a bottle of champagne or sparkling wine, make sure to take your time and savor every sip.