How to uncork a bottle of sparkling wine like a pro (and avoid fizzy disasters)

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Photo: Petitchef.com

Few things say "celebration" like the sound of a cork flying at full speed. Whether it's a toast to the New Year, a promotion at work or just because Friday deserves it, sparkling wine is always there to add bubbles to our most festive moments. And, let's face it, we've all had that little temptation to point the bottle at the cousin who took the last canapé from us, just for fun.

Sure, there's the classic movie scene: shake the bottle like there's no tomorrow, unleash a geyser of champagne and drench everyone within a two-meter radius. Great fun... until you realize you've wasted half the contents and the white tablecloth isn't so white anymore.

That's why we're here: to show you how to open a bottle of sparkling wine, be it cava, prosecco or champagne, with style and safety. Then you decide to unleash chaos and get your brother-in-law wet? That's up to you. But at least you'll know how to do it like a real pro. Cheers!

Before opening: Preparation and key details

1. Ideal Temperature:

Sparkling wines should be served between 42°F/6 °C and 46°F/8 °C to preserve their effervescence and flavor.

To achieve this temperature, refrigerate the bottle for about 3-4 hours before opening or soak it in a bucket of ice and water for 20-30 minutes.

If the sparkling wine is warm, in addition to ruining the tasting, we run the risk of the cork popping out with too much force when trying to open it. This is due to the internal pressure that is reduced by the cold.

2. Choose the right glass:

Use flute-type glasses to highlight the bubbles and concentrate the aromas.

Tulip glasses are also excellent, as they allow a better appreciation of the aromas and nuances of the sparkling wine.

3. Avoid shaking the bottle:

Don't shake the bottle. Although it can be fun for celebrations, shaking increases the internal pressure and can cause an uncontrolled uncorking causing accidents or loss of product.

4. Prepare the glasses before opening the bottle:

Have the glasses ready near you so that you can serve the sparkling wine as soon as you open the bottle. This will avoid unnecessary spills and you will be able to enjoy the drink immediately, when it still retains its freshness and bubbles.

The moment to open the bottle

1. Clean the bottle: If you take your bottle of sparkling wine out of an ice bucket the first thing you will have to do is to dry with a clean cloth the butt of the bottle. If you are a professional, you should then place the bottle on a bottle saver, making sure that the label is always facing your guests. For the rest of us mortals, it will be enough to place it on a flat and stable surface such as a table.

2. Remove the metal capsule and the muzzle: Carefully remove the metal capsule covering the cork (cape or coiffe) by pulling the pre-cut tab or cutting it with a sommelier's knife. Next, loosen the wire (muzzle or muselet) that holds and secures the cork in place. Be sure to always keep one hand on the cork while removing the wire, as the internal pressure could cause the cork to pop unexpectedly.

3. Hold the bottle at a safe angle: Place the bottle at a 45-degree angle, pointing it toward a clear area and away from people, windows or lamps.

4. Hold the bottle properly: Place one hand firmly on the cork to prevent it from popping out unexpectedly. The other hand will hold the base of the bottle.

5. Twist the bottle, not the cork: Hold the bottle firmly and gently twist the bottle to release pressure slowly. As you twist the bottle, you will notice that the cork begins to loosen. Try to minimize the popping sound, as, while entertaining, it can cause you to lose bubbles. A soft popping sound indicates that you have done it properly, preserving the effervescence and preventing possible leakage.

6. Pouring: Hold the bottle by the base, placing your thumb in the concavity of the bottom, using only one hand.