Why We Celebrate with Champagne
So many homes worldwide have a tradition of popping the cork and celebrating with sparkling, bubbly champagne as the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve. The sparkling, light-colored wine has long been associated with luxury and parties of Europe's royal courts and aristocracy.
A Brief History of Champagne
Champagne's history began in the 5th century, or possibly earlier, when the Romans planted vineyards in this region of northeast France. Over centuries, Champagne evolved from being a pale, pinkish still wine to a sparkling wine. Champagne is a sparkling wine made exclusively in the Champagne region of France from three types of grapes: Pinot noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier.
However, it was first produced in England, where the bottling and corking of carbonated drinks were invented in the late 1500s. In 1662, adding sugar enhanced the effervescence, giving champagne its signature sparkle.
By the late 1800s, Champagne became a worldwide drinking phenomenon and was frequently used to mark special occasions, from smashing bottles against a ship before its maiden voyage to pouring champagne glasses on the floor at weddings.
In today’s society, Champagne can be found in a wide variety of events and gatherings, including retirement parties, anniversary celebrations, award ceremonies, sporting achievements, and holidays. Most celebratory occasions include a champagne toast, in which all participants raise a glass in celebration of something or someone and take a sip at the same time.
How Did the Tradition of Raising a Glass Start?
The tradition of raising a glass of Champagne in celebration of good health and a prosperous New Year dates back to the 5th century France when King Clovis' first Holy Communion as king included a local wine from the Champagne region. As mentioned, Champagne in the twentieth century was not bubbly, and the bubbles came about in the mid-1600s.
Why is Champagne Associated with Celebration?
Champagne became popular among French royals in the mid-1800s. Those who lived during the French Revolution also celebrated their victory with Champagne.
As the price of Champagne fell, more ordinary people could buy it, but it was still too expensive to drink every day. Instead, they would buy a bottle of champagne to commemorate a great occasion. The bubbly beverage got more affordable over time, yet it is still extensively used to celebrate.
Champagne Metro Wines Asheville, NC
Champagne is an excellent addition to any wine cellar and makes an excellent gift for holiday parties and other special occasions. A bottle placed on a Christmas table still adds a special touch of celebration. So, with Christmas and New Year's just around the corner, why not crack open a bottle?
Metro can help you in finding the perfect bottle for your collection, whether you plan to celebrate with it or not. Contact us today to learn more, or stop by our Asheville location.