THE RIGHT WAY TO OPEN A BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE

How do you open a bottle of Mumm? Opening champagne is easy, all it takes is a little preparation. Here are our top tips and recommendations.

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HOW TO OPEN A BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE

First things first, check the temperature. Champagne should be served chilled, but never ice cold. At temperatures too close to zero, the wine’s nuanced aromatic profile will be muted. At the other end of the scale, high temperatures can dull the flavors of your wine. The ideal temperature for serving champagne is between 46°F and 50°F (8-10°C).

Now for the serious business: it’s time to open your bottle of champagne. Begin by gently removing the foil seal and cage. Keep one hand firmly wrapped around the base of the bottle (the punt), and use the other to grip the cork. Slowly turn the bottle, while keeping it pointed upwards at a 45° angle. Keep on rotating the bottle, not the cork, until you hear a gentle “pop”.

If you are having trouble opening your champagne, and the cork appears to be stuck, try moistening the cork and the neck of the bottle with a cloth soaked in very warm water. The heat should help to gently loosen the stopper. Then simply dry the bottle and start the process from the top.

POURING CHAMPAGNE TO GET THE BEST FROM YOUR BUBBLES

Now that you have opened the bottle, pour each glass of champagne in two steps, leaving a few seconds between each action. Ideally the bottle should be held as close to the rim of the glass as possible. This helps a ring of longer-lasting bubbles to form on the surface of the wine, without creating too much foam.

The bubbles play a key role in conveying the aromatic complexity of the wine. They act like an elevator for the aromatic compounds in the champagne, drawing these key molecules up to the surface of the glass.

Now you know how to open a bottle of champagne and pour a perfect glass, it’s time for the best bit: take a sip, and savor the intensity of your Mumm Champagne.

The name of the champagne and the red sash—Mumm’s historic emblem—are all part of the tasting experience. Each cuvée has its own history and distinctive character, encapsulating the unique style of the House’s wines. From Mumm Grand Cordon to Mumm RSRV Blanc de Blancs, Mumm RSRV Blanc de Noirs, and Mumm Millésimé, give your guests a little insight by telling them about the cuvée you are going to serve, and whet their appetites for the intense tasting experience to come.