Episode 33: Your Guide to Champagne
Updated: Jul 4, 2020
There’s nothing quite like the sound of a bottle of Champagne being opened. When you hear that unmistakeable pop, you know exactly what’s to follow – the sight and sound of tiny bubbles rising in your glass, the aroma before the first sip, the feel of delicate bubbles in your mouth and, of course, the taste. It’s a marvellous set of sensory triggers that help explain why Champagne has been one of the world’s most popular drinks for centuries.
Amanda Reboul, our guest on this episode of ExtraVirgin Podcast, shares her wealth of knowledge on the subject of Champagne, starting with what makes sparkling wine from Champagne unique, and why all Champagne is sparkling wine but not all sparkling wine is Champagne.
Amanda, aka the Champagne Diva, explains the best temperature to store and serve your champagne at – and how best to get it to the right temperature when it’s as hot as it gets in an Australian summer. She also outlines options for the best glasswear to use, something that has changed several times.
Then she generously shares her recommendations for what to buy at every Champagne price-point, ranging from a cheaper Champagne that’s ideal for cocktails, to affordable and recognisable brand buys and even the no-budget truly-special occasion Champagne.
Amanda guides us on:
The difference between vintage and non-vintage Champagne
What Champagne to have as an aperitif
How to choose a Champagne that you can have with your main course
What is “grower” Champagne and
How to choose Champagne to give as a gift.
Elderflower French 75 Cocktail
Ingredients
60ml gin
30ml elderflower syrup
30ml lemon juice
60ml Champagne
Pieces of lemon peal to garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Add ice to a cocktail shaker
Step 2: Add the elderflower syrup, lemon juice and gin.
Step 3: Shake to combine liquids.
Step 4: Strain into a champagne flute.
Step 5: Top with Champagne and lemon peel, then enjoy.
Click here to hear more from Amanda. Cheers!