Technically, champagne is the sparkling wine made in the Champagne region of France. Anything made outside of that region is simply a sparkling wine. Champagne is made in a specific method, called the “methode traditionelle”; very labour-intensive, it adds to the price of the final product.

The easiest and safest way to crack a bottle open is to unwrap the foil and undo the wire, making sure not to let go of the cork, because you don’t know when that cork is just going to pop up.

Hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle, being careful not to point it at anyone. Rather than trying to twist the cork, twist the bottom of the bottle, because you will have a better grip this way. It only takes a tiny twist and the cork will come out on its own. Bring in a couple of flutes, and enjoy the effervescence!