Do you know the story behind this champagne tradition?
If this alcohol, symbol of festive moments, is well known, a tradition surrounding the tasting of champagne still persists today. But do you know the origins of this tradition?
A true marker of the festive season, we take a look back at the origins of an emblematic ritual. With a history stretching back centuries, this gesture continues to sparkle on special occasions. But what's the story behind this tradition?
The military origins of champagne sabré
Over the centuries, champagne has established itself as a drink made to celebrate important moments. In Napoleon's time, champagne was also used to celebrate his many battles and victories.
The practice of sabering a bottle of champagne comes from this era. On the battlefield, soldiers celebrating a victory would open bottles of champagne. With only their sabres at their disposal, they used them to open the bottles.
Even today, the tradition has survived, and champagne bottles can still be opened at happy moments. While long swords are no longer the order of the day, other tools, such as the smaller, curved "sabre briquet", can be used for practice.
The difference between "sabler" and "sabrer" champagne
We sometimes hear two similar expressions that have very different meanings. The term "sabler" is used colloquially to describe the act of drinking champagne quickly, rather like "whistling" a glass, while "sabrage" is the technique of opening a bottle in the Napoleonic style, by popping the neck with a sharp blow.
To successfully saber champagne, make sure the bottle is kept cool until opening. Then remove the metal cage, tilt the bottle between 30° and 45°, and locate the weld line, which is the most fragile part of the bottle. Holding firmly, the last step is to give the neck a sharp blow to remove it. Take precautions to avoid accidents.
