How to Open Sparkling Wine Like a Pro

Opening a bottle of sparkling wine should be an elegant and controlled process – not a chaotic pop with foam spilling everywhere (unless you’re celebrating a Grand Prix victory!). Whether you’re serving Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, or English Sparkling Wine, knowing how to open a bottle properly ensures a smooth pour, prevents waste, and most importantly, avoids accidents. The pressure inside a bottle of sparkling wine can be up to three times that of a car tyre, so handling it correctly is key.

Step-by-step guide to opening sparkling wine

1. CHILL THE BOTTLE PROPERLY

Before opening, ensure your sparkling wine is well-chilled – ideally between 6-10°C. A cold bottle reduces pressure inside and minimises the risk of excessive foaming when opened.

1. Place the bottle in the fridge for at least three hours or in an ice bucket with equal parts ice and water for 30 minutes.
2. Avoid opening a warm bottle, as the wine will be more volatile and likely to overflow.

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2. PREPARE FOR OPENING

1. Choose a stable surface – Open the bottle over a table or countertop, not mid-air, to maintain control.
2. Use a clean, dry cloth or napkin – This helps grip the cork and prevent slippage.
3. Angle the bottle slightly – Hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle, pointing away from people, pets, and anything breakable.

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3. REMOVE THE FOIL AND LOOSEN THE CAGE

1. Peel away the foil covering the cork. Some bottles have a pull tab for easy removal.
2. Loosen the wire cage (known as the muselet) by untwisting the loop six half-turns.
3. Keep a firm grip on the cork with your thumb as you loosen the cage – never remove your hand from the top of the bottle, as the pressure could cause the cork to release unexpectedly.

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4. THE ART OF OPENING THE BOTTLE

1. Hold the base of the bottle firmly in one hand while keeping your other hand over the cork.
2. Gently twist the bottle – not the cork – This gives better control and prevents the cork from shooting out.
3. As the cork loosens, apply gentle resistance to ease it out slowly. You should hear a soft ‘hiss’, not a loud pop.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Shaking the bottle – This creates excess pressure, increasing the risk of an uncontrolled pop and wasted wine.
• Letting go of the cork too soon – The pressure inside the bottle can force the cork out unexpectedly, potentially causing injury or mess.
• Holding the bottle upright while opening – A slight angle prevents an overflow of bubbles.

Pouring sparkling wine correctly

Once opened, sparkling wine should be poured with care:
• Hold the glass at an angle – This reduces excessive foaming.
• Pour slowly – Start with a small amount, let the bubbles settle, then continue pouring.
• Fill to two-thirds full – Leaving space allows the bubbles to develop and prevents spills.

Opening a bottle of sparkling wine should be a smooth and controlled experience, not a dramatic explosion. By chilling the bottle, loosening the cage with care, and easing the cork out gently, you can enjoy your fizz without wasting a drop. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a glass of bubbly, mastering this technique ensures every bottle is opened safely and elegantly. Cheers! 🥂