Arabella Franco
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge, champagne is often the drink of choice. But can you pick up a bottle at your local beer store, or do you need to head to a specialized wine shop? This is a question many consumers face, especially when time is of the essence and convenience is a priority.
What You'll Learn
Where to buy champagne
If you're looking to buy champagne, there are several options available to you. You can purchase champagne online from retailers such as Quality Liquor Store and The Champagne Company. Online shopping offers a convenient way to browse a wide selection of champagnes from the comfort of your home. These websites often provide detailed descriptions of the products, making it easier to find the perfect bottle for your taste preferences and budget.
Another option is to visit a dedicated wine store or liquor store in your local area. These stores typically carry a range of champagne options, from well-known brands to smaller producers. If you're not sure where to start, you can ask the staff for recommendations or advice based on your preferences. Specialist wine stores may also offer advice on food pairings and storage conditions, ensuring you get the most out of your purchase.
For added convenience, you can also try larger grocery stores or supermarkets, which often have a dedicated alcohol section that includes a selection of champagnes. This option allows you to stock up on other items while also picking up a bottle of your favourite bubbly. However, the selection may be more limited compared to specialist wine stores.
Finally, if you're looking for a specific type of champagne or a rare vintage, you may want to explore wine auctions or specialist champagne houses. These sources can provide access to exclusive or hard-to-find champagnes, but they may come with a higher price tag. Nevertheless, they can be a great option for collectors or enthusiasts seeking something unique.
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Beer store alternatives
Another alternative to a beer store is a liquor store, which may stock beer, wine, and spirits.
If you are looking for a non-alcoholic alternative to beer, there are several options available, including kombucha, non-alcoholic beer, and low-calorie, vegan, and non-GMO brews.
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Online champagne sales
Buying champagne online is a convenient way to get your hands on your favourite fizz without having to leave your home. Many online retailers offer a wide selection of champagnes, from well-known brands to smaller producers, and often include detailed descriptions, tasting notes, and customer reviews to help you make an informed choice. Some websites even offer comparison tools, allowing you to compare multiple products side by side.
When shopping for champagne online, you'll find that most websites organise their offerings into several categories, making it easier to browse and narrow down your options. Common categories include vintage, non-vintage, rosé, and prestige cuvee, with some sites also featuring sections for organic or biodynamic champagnes, as well as gift sets and limited editions. You can also filter your search by price, brand, or customer rating to find a bottle that suits your taste and budget.
In addition to the convenience of shopping from home, many online champagne retailers offer perks such as free shipping, loyalty programs, and discounted prices when you buy in bulk. Some sites also offer wine subscription services, where you can receive a curated selection of champagnes or sparkling wines at regular intervals, allowing you to discover new favourites without the hassle of choosing them yourself.
While the selection and convenience of online champagne sales are certainly appealing, it's important to be mindful of shipping regulations, as some websites may have restrictions on shipping alcoholic beverages to certain regions or states. Additionally, proper storage and handling during shipping are crucial to ensure that your champagne arrives in optimal condition, so it's worth checking the seller's policies on these matters before placing your order.
Overall, buying champagne online offers a convenient and often rewarding way to explore the world of champagne and sparkling wines, allowing you to discover new favourites, stock up on old classics, or find the perfect gift for a loved one.
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Short-term champagne storage
If you're planning to open your bottle of champagne within a month, it's best to store it upright. The pressure in the bottle is enough to keep the cork moist and the seal intact for short-term storage. The ideal temperature for short-term storage is between 50° and 59°F, and the bottle should be kept away from direct sunlight.
If you plan to open your champagne within a couple of days, it can be kept chilled in the fridge. The final temperature should be between 42.8 and 44.6 degrees Fahrenheit. However, storing sparkling wines in the fridge for too long can alter the taste. The cork can dry out due to no humidity, and as the cork dries out, the seal between the bottle and the cork loosens, and the wine oxidizes faster, changing its aromas. It can also absorb the flavours and perfumes of other foods.
For short-term storage, the actual temperature is less important than its constancy. Wild fluctuations of heat and cold will spoil the wine, so avoid storing bottles in the kitchen and never in the garage or shed.
Wherever you store your wine, make sure to keep it away from direct light and heat, and try to avoid temperature fluctuations.
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Long-term champagne storage
If you're planning to store your champagne for longer than a month, it's best to keep it in a cool, dark, and humid environment—similar conditions to those found in the cellars of Champagne houses. The ideal temperature range for long-term storage is between 10 and 13°C, and it's important to maintain temperature consistency, avoiding draughts and heat shocks.
While some sources suggest storing champagne bottles on their side in a wine rack or cellar, others recommend keeping them upright. Sideways storage prevents the cork from drying out, but there is some debate about whether it risks the cork tainting the flavour of the wine over time. Upright storage, on the other hand, keeps the wine away from the cork, reducing the risk of cork taint. Ultimately, the angle at which you store your champagne is less important than other factors, such as temperature and light exposure.
Speaking of light exposure, "lightstrike" is a particular risk when it comes to long-term champagne storage. Excessive exposure to light can bleach the flavour of the wine, so it's important to keep your bottles in the dark or protect them from light using tinted glass, yellow cellophane, or aluminium foil. Sodium vapour lights are less harmful to wine than fluorescent or conventional lighting, so consider this when choosing a storage location.
In addition to light and temperature control, there are a few other factors to consider when storing champagne long-term. Humidity is generally beneficial in a wine cellar, as it helps keep the wine cool, but it should not exceed 60-70% to prevent mould from becoming an issue. Strong smells, draughts, and vibrations can also negatively impact your champagne, so choose a storage location that is free from these potential hazards.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the store. Some beer stores may sell champagne, while others may only sell beer and other types of alcohol. It's always a good idea to call ahead and check with the store before making a special trip.
Champagne is a type of sparkling wine, while beer is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains. Champagne is typically served chilled and is known for its bubbles, while beer is often served cold but not chilled, and has a foam head rather than bubbles.
Yes, you can store unopened champagne at room temperature for up to a month. If you plan on opening the bottle within a couple of days, it's best to keep it chilled in the fridge. Just be sure to avoid direct light and heat, and try to avoid temperature fluctuations.
