FOUR WAYS TO GET THE BEST FROM YOUR BUBBLES

Fizzing with excitement for the party season? Davy Zyw, author of 101 Champagnes And Other Sparkling Wines To Try Before You Die, gives you some knowhow...

1. Shape

The shape of the glass will channel aromas and smells in the right direction. The shape will also dictate the persistence and display of bubbles; the narrower and taller the glass, the smaller the ratio of air to wine, keeping those cheeky bubbles alive for longer.

2. A normal wine glass is better than a flute

Like fine wine, a certain amount of oxygen is needed to open and aerate the aromas and flavours of champagne. The shape of the flute inhibits the style, and can hide the taste. I’m happier drinking my champers out of normal wine glasses, so I can fully appreciate the aromas and tastes released in the glass.

3. Farewell to flutes!

Although flutes are visually pleasing, they do not best showcase the quality of champagne in the glass; in fact they impede it. They are fine for simple fizzers at parties, but if you have a special bottle you want to savour, then flutes will literally restrict the flavour.

4. Show respect

Many sparkling wines, especially champagnes, have taken years or decades to make. It would be a shame to undo all that time in a few seconds by using the wrong vessel. So, next time you pop a cork, do yourself a flavour favour and use a proper glass.

n 101Champagnes And Other Sparkling Wines To Try Before You Die by Davy Zyw, is published by Birlinn, priced £14.99