How to enjoy Champagne at a celebration
Champagne can add a festive touch to birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and holiday gatherings. Choose it for its flavor and the occasion—not for health claims. Alcohol is not a health treatment, and current public-health guidance does not recommend starting to drink for possible benefits.
Champagne versus sparkling wine
Champagne is sparkling wine produced in France’s Champagne region under that region’s rules. Other sparkling wines include Cava, Prosecco, Crémant, and many domestic styles. Each can range from dry to sweet, so the label and producer description are useful when matching a bottle to your menu.
Serving and pairing tips
- Chill the bottle before serving.
- Open it slowly, keeping the bottle pointed away from people and breakable objects.
- Pair dry sparkling wine with salty snacks, seafood, fried foods, or mild cheeses.
- Check sweetness and alcohol-by-volume information on the label.
- Offer appealing nonalcoholic options and arrange safe transportation before the event.
A note on alcohol and health
Drinking less lowers alcohol-related risk, and some people should not drink at all. Pregnancy, medications, health conditions, recovery, driving, and other circumstances can make avoiding alcohol the safest choice. Ask a healthcare professional for advice specific to you.
