How to Chill Champagne

Champagne is a sparkling wine produced by inducing the in-bottle secondary fermentation of wine to effect carbonation. It is produced exclusively within the Champagne region of France, from which it takes its name. While the term "champagne" is used by some makers of sparkling wine in other parts of the world, numerous countries limit the use of the term to only those wines that come from the Champagne appellation. In Europe, this principle is enshrined in the European Union by Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. Other countries, such as the United States, have recognized the exclusive nature of this name, yet maintain a legal structure that allows longtime domestic producers of sparkling wine to continue to use the term "Champagne" under specific circumstances.

Champagne, synonymous with celebrations and special occasions, is ideally served at 45 degrees Fahrenheit. And properly chilling it to that temperature will ensure that the bubbly’s delicate flavor is preserved. But before we get to how to chill, remember that champagne should be stored at room temperature and chilled only in the hours before opening. Storing champagne for an extended length of time in the refrigerator or in a place where temperatures can fluctuate (i.e. in a wine rack placed near a stove or dishwasher) will turn the flavor of the bubbly into something resembling sweaty feet. And really, who wants to drink that? For the steps to proper chilling.

Things You’ll Need:

• champagne
• ice bucket
• refrigerator
  

Step 1 : Champagne can be chilled in an ice bucket or in the refrigerator, but never in the freezer.

Step 2 : If you choose to chill in the refrigerator, simply place the bottle in the fridge either upright or on its side. It can take up to 3 hours for the champagne to be properly chilled; the bottle should stay in the fridge for no more 6 hours to 8 hours.

Step 3 : To rapidly chill champagne (an impromptu celebration, perhaps?), place the bottle in an ice bucket filled with equal parts crushed ice and cold water. Using this quick chill method it will still take 25 to 45 minutes for the champagne to reach its ideal serving temperature.

Tips & Warnings

• Always store champagne on its side and in a cool dry place.
• Once opened, champagne should ideally be consumed within a few hours.
• If you've chilled a bottle of champagne and did not open the bottle, return the bottle to its previous storage location within 8 hours.