Did you know that today is international Champagne Day? People all over the world will be popping corks to honor this special wine. No matter what is going on in our lives, there is ALWAYS something to be grateful for and to celebrate. Want to join in the fun? Here are 6 ways to enjoy Champagne Day:

Buy authentic Champagne. Not prosecco. Not cava. Not sparkling wine. But Champagne made in the Champagne region of France. This is where bubbly originated. The Champenoise created a unique method of producing fine bubbles and complex flavors (not surprisingly, it's called the Méthode Champenoise). This process has been copied by vintners around the world for a reason. Can you detect the difference? Open a bottle of Champagne vs. another bottle of bubbles and compare. Which do you prefer?

2. Try a new brand of Champagne. Many of us gravitate towards the big names we see in the grocery stores. Take this opportunity to try something new! Although Champagne tends to be a bit higher priced than other sparklers, there are delicious wines at varying price points that will open your mind to different styles and flavors. Here are a few to consider:

Heidsieck Monopole Blue Top Brut ($29.99)
Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Blue Label ($34.99)
Lanson Black Label Brut ($39.99)
Deutz Brut Classic ($49.99)
Pierre Péters Cuvee Reserve ($59.99)
Philipponnat Royal Reserve Brut ($69.99)

3. Buy new Champagne glasses. Do you know that the flute is actually not the best way to enjoy Champagne? Although the flute allows the pretty bubbles to flow, it does not give you much area to take in the aromas of the wine. Most people in Champagne, France use a tulip glass or even a regular white or red wine glass. The wider opening at the top allows more of the aroma compounds to be released. Since smell is such a big part of taste, it really can impact your experience with the wine. Give it a try and taste two glasses side by side - can you tell the difference?

4. Hop on a Zoom call with friends. Gather some other wine loving friends and open a bottle of bubbly together. This is a great excuse to connect with friends when we cannot meet in person. It is always the right time to toast to friendship and to fabulous times ahead!

5. Read a book about Champagne - the beverage and the region. The gorgeous book Champagne: The Essential Guide to the Wines, Producers, and Terroirs of the Iconic Region by Peter Liem is a comprehensive guide to modern Champagne, complete with facts, engaging stories and profiles of growers and vintners. Reading this book can take your knowledge to the next level and add to your appreciation of this special drink.

The region of Champagne, France has a wild and intricate history. Champagne: How the World's Most Glamorous Wine Triumphed Over War and Hard Times chronicles how this region has suffered more battles and wars than perhaps any other place on earth. The Widow Clicquot: The Story of a Champagne Empire and the Woman Who Ruled It follows the story of Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin, who took over the reins of a fledgling business after her husband died, and subsequently changed the industry forever.

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6. Plan a trip to the Champagne region! Champagne is only about 90 minutes outside of Paris and has so much to offer. Spend a few days touring the historic chalk caves, visiting the famous Champagne houses and meeting with small producers. See first-hand how this delicious wine is made and why Champagne is so unique and special. The region has many other interesting cultural and historical sites as well - not to mention fabulous restaurants and lovely scenery. The Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, truly is a spectacular sight with its grand Gothic architecture and stained glass windows. The Ouvrage La Ferté war memorial, the 16th century fortress Château de Sedan, the Museum of Modern Art, cycling the vineyards, luxurious spa treatments… so much to experience beyond wine.

Call us today to start planning!!

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Champagne Day is a wonderful opportunity to focus on our blessings, celebrate life and toast to the future. Cheers to family and friends, good food, great wine and many future adventures ahead!!