How to Store

Properly storing Champagne is essential to preserving its quality, flavor, and bubbles. Here are the best practices for storing Champagne, both short-term and long-term:


1. Long-Term Storage

If you're planning to store Champagne for an extended period (more than a few months), follow these guidelines:

Temperature

  • Keep it Cool: Store Champagne at a constant temperature of around 10-13°C (50-55°F). Fluctuations in temperature can harm the wine.
  • Avoid Heat: Heat is Champagne’s enemy. Never store it in a place where it can be exposed to temperatures above 20°C (68°F), like a kitchen or near radiators.

Humidity

  • Moderate Humidity: Ideally, Champagne should be kept at around 70% humidity. This helps maintain the integrity of the cork, preventing it from drying out or shrinking.

Positioning

  • Store Horizontally: Keeping Champagne on its side ensures that the cork stays moist, preventing it from drying out and allowing air to seep into the bottle. However, for short-term storage, it's okay to store it upright.

Darkness

  • Keep It in the Dark: Champagne should be stored away from light, particularly sunlight and fluorescent lights, which can damage the wine. A wine cellar or a dark cabinet is ideal.

Avoid Vibrations

  • Steady and Still: Store Champagne in a place free from vibrations, as movement can disturb the wine’s delicate bubbles and aging process. Avoid placing it near appliances that produce vibrations, like a washer or dryer.


2. Short-Term Storage

For Champagne that you plan to consume within a few weeks or months, the storage guidelines are slightly more relaxed:

Refrigerator Storage

  • Avoid Long-Term in the Fridge: While you can chill Champagne in the fridge for a day or two before serving, storing it for extended periods in the refrigerator is not ideal. Fridge vibrations and dry air can affect the cork and the wine.
  • Cool Before Serving: If storing for just a couple of days, place the bottle in the fridge or an ice bucket with ice and water for about 20-30 minutes before serving.


3. After Opening the Bottle

If you open a bottle and don’t finish it, here's how to store it to preserve the bubbles and flavor:

  • Use a Champagne Stopper: A Champagne stopper creates a tight seal and keeps the bubbles intact for up to 1-3 days.
  • Store in the Fridge: Once opened, store the bottle upright in the refrigerator to minimize the surface area exposed to air and preserve freshness.

By adhering to these storage tips, you can ensure that your Champagne maintains its best quality and flavor until you're ready to enjoy it.