When champagne was first invented the bubbles we associate as being its distinguishing feature were seen as a flaw. Over time the sparkling wine started to grow in popularity and was soon declared a favourite of the noble and wealthy especially in the French courts of the 16th century. Even today champagne still holds these connotations of celebration and affluence and has its own etiquette when it comes to be served.
The champagne flute is the more preferred vessel to consume the drink from today rather than the traditional coupe. Champagne is a completely unique drink and it has its own unique glass designed and shaped specifically to ensure the drink is consumed at its best. The long stem of the flute serves the same purpose as the traditional wine glass. It allows the consumer to hold their glass without transferring their body heat to the drink. The bubbles pop when they come into contact with air so the design of the flute minimises this. The tall slim design of the glass means they’re easy to carry on a serving tray as champagne is traditionally consumed at a celebration or party. Although reports of the champagne coupe being modelled on the breasts of Marie Antoinette are untrue, the coupe is seen as old fashioned these days. Crystal glasses are favoured by serious champagne connoisseurs because the rougher texture of the crystal will produce more bubbles. Although champagne should always be served chilled, the champagne glasses should never be chilled before use.
Champagne is normally consumed on special occasions or for celebrations so is always best enjoyed however the celebrator chooses. The primary directive of the champagne flute design is to keep your champagne sparkling and bubbly. Although only sparkling wine produced in the Champagne region of France may call itself champagne, most sparkling wines will offer the same sparkle and air of opulence.
