You definitely didn't know this: where did the tradition of drinking champagne on New Year's Eve come from?

0

There are many traditions associated with the New Year, but one of the most striking is a glass of champagne to the chimes. But why has this sparkling drink long become a symbol of festive atmosphere and luxury?

The origin of champagne: the history of sparkling wine

Champagne originated in the Champagne region of France, where sparkling wine was first produced in the 17th century. The region's wines gained a special status due to their bubbles, which were initially considered a flaw.

It was only later that the method of producing sparkling wine, developed by monk Pierre Pérignon, became popular around the world. Champagne quickly became the drink of kings and aristocrats, symbolizing luxury and celebration.

At that time, it was served only at special events, which emphasized its uniqueness. And even today, champagne is a symbol of status and refined taste.

How champagne became a drink for celebrations

Sparkling wine has been associated with celebrations since the days of the French royal courts. In the 19th century, champagne began to be actively advertised as a drink for special moments. It was drunk at weddings, large balls and holidays, gradually including it in New Year's celebrations.

The symbolism of bubbles rising upwards is associated with new hopes and desires, which makes champagne ideal for welcoming the New Year. In addition, sparkling wine is convenient to open at the climax – to the chimes. This is what made champagne an indispensable attribute of festive events.

Why is champagne associated with luxury

Champagne has always been considered a drink of the elite due to the complexity of production and the high status of the Champagne region. Sparkling wine was sold in luxurious bottles, and advertising campaigns emphasized its uniqueness. Today, this association with luxury has been preserved, even if the drink has become more affordable.

That is why a glass of champagne adds sophistication and solemnity to a holiday. In addition, its sparkling bubbles and golden color remind of wealth and joy. Even budget champagne has the ability to create a festive atmosphere.

New Year's Eve Tradition: From Europe to the World

The tradition of drinking champagne on New Year's Eve began to spread in Europe in the 19th century. In the Russian Empire, this habit appeared during the time of the tsars, who appreciated French wines. Over time, this tradition spread to other countries due to the popularity of European culture.

Today, a glass of champagne to the chimes has become an indispensable part of New Year's celebrations in many parts of the world. Even in countries where the New Year is celebrated according to a different calendar, the sparkling wine remains popular. This brings people of different cultures together in a festive atmosphere.

Interesting facts about champagne

• Each bottle of champagne contains about 49 million bubbles.
• The most expensive champagne in the world costs over $2 million per bottle.
• There is a tradition of opening champagne “with a shot” – it was started by French hussars.
• To preserve the taste, champagne should be cooled to a temperature of 6-9 °C.
• The Champagne region has an exclusive the right to call their sparkling wine “champagne.”
• Some bottles of champagne can be aged for decades, retaining their unique flavor.
• Opening the bottle at a 45-degree angle helps prevent the loss of excess gas.