GET THOSE CORKS POPPING
SIX TIPS FOR BECOMING A CHAMPAGNE PRO, COURTESY OF LAURENT-PERRIER
Do you know your non-vintage from your prestige cuvée? Make sure your toasts are on point with some intel from the experts. From the perfect glass shape to serve it in (it’s not what you think) to the exact temperature to drink it at, Laurent-Perrier UK champagne expert Daniel Brennan shares his tips on how to serve your bubbles like a wine connoisseur. SIDE EFFECTS
When it comes to storing your champagne, think a cool, dry place and always store it on its side, so that the cork doesn’t dry out. ‘A dried-out cork can contract, letting air into the bottle and causing oxidation, which is what makes wine, still or sparkling, acquire that strong and generally unpleasant “corked” taste,’ explains Daniel. KEEP YOUR COOL
The optimal serving temperature is 8-10°C, says Daniel. ‘But it’s slightly warmer in the case of prestige bottles, such as our Laurent-Perrier Vintage cuvée.’ Chill your champagne in a fridge for three hours, or in an ice bucket with ice and water for 45 minutes, prior to serving. ROSÉ RULES
There are no rules when it comes to pairing rosé champagne with food, says Daniel. ‘Our Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé is not just for dessert. For canapés, try smoked salmon and sour cream on blinis, or vegetarian spring rolls. If you want to serve it at a dinner party, it makes an excellent pairing with roast lamb or duck.’ UP YOUR GLASS GAME
The type of glass that you drink your bubbles from can actually enhance its taste. ‘Coupe glasses may be a stylish option, but if you want to keep your champagne sparkling for as long as possible, opt for a classic flute, or – the best option – a tulip glass, which has slightly more surface area, so really brings out aromas,’ says Daniel. AN EXPERT HAND
How to open a bottle like a wine connoisseur? ‘Don’t twist the cork,’ Daniel warns. ‘The best way to open champagne is to keep a firm grip on the cork and cage in one hand, then hold the bottom of the bottle with the other, gently twisting until you hear a light “sigh”, which tells you the bottle is just open.’ CHAMPAGNE MATHS
If you’re throwing a cocktail party, the experts suggest you plan for roughly six glasses per bottle. But always buy one or two extra bottles if you think you’ll have thirsty guests!
Find out more at cuveerose.com/uk/
“The type of glass you drink from can actually enhance your bubbles”