Wine101: How to open a bottle of Sparkling Wine?

Sparkling wines like Champagne or Cava can be tricky to open. The bubbles create pressure inside the bottle. This can go up to 6 bars for Champagne, lower for others. Any mishandling can actually cause some harm (I have seen it happen!).

Here a few steps you can follow to ensure it opens without a bang. In fact, it shouldn’t even pop at all!

• Make sure that the bottle is very cold – too warm, and the pressure is more likely to pop the cork
• Remove the foil. Try to always keep the bottle in 45 degrees angle to have better control over the pressure
• Be sure that the cork isn’t pointing at anyone.
• While keeping your thumb on the top of the cork, untwist the wire. But do not remove it as it offers a better grip
• Squeeze the cork/wire at the top of the neck and slowly turn it left to right – do not pull it yet
• When you feel a bit of pressure, gently start pulling together along with the turning
• You should be able to remove the cork at then, without any noise – and impress your group of friends waiting for the pop!

Take advantage of our Moët & Chandon offer price of RM170 and try these tips so you can show off your bottle opening skills!