national-champagne-day-december-31

National Champagne Day December 31

Imagine standing at the brink of a new year, glass in hand, ready to toast to the future. But what's in that glass? If it's December 31st, chances are it's Champagne, a drink synonymous with celebration, luxury, and history. This sparkling wine didn't just bubble up overnight; its story is as rich and effervescent as the drink itself. Originating from the Champagne region of France, this prestigious beverage owes its life to centuries of cultivation, innovation, and a bit of serendipity. From the Monks of Hautvillers to the grand Champagne houses that dominate the market today, each bottle is a testament to the tradition and meticulous craftsmanship that goes into its creation. National Champagne Day isn't just another holiday; it's a nod to the legacy of a drink that has become a global symbol of festivity. As glasses clink on the eve of a new year, it's worth pondering: how did this exquisite wine become the centerpiece of celebrations around the world?

Key Takeaway

National Champagne Day on December 31st celebrates the history and culture of Champagne, a sparkling wine that originated in the Champagne region of France in the late 17th century.
The production method of Champagne, known as the “methode champenoise,” was perfected in the 19th century and involves a second fermentation process in the bottle.

Timeline

1693
Invention of Champagne
Dom Pérignon, a Benedictine monk, is believed to have invented champagne at the Abbey of Hautvillers in the region of Champagne, France.
1728
Birth of Champagne houses
Ruinart, the first champagne house, was founded in Reims, France.
1844
Introduction of Champagne bottles
A larger, heavier champagne bottle was developed to withstand the pressure of the secondary fermentation process.
1867
Phylloxera epidemic
The phylloxera epidemic in France destroyed most of the vineyards, but champagne production continued.
1900
Champagne and the arts
Champagne became associated with the arts, fashion, and luxury, as depicted in works by Toulouse-Lautrec and others.
1911
Champagne region recognized
The Champagne region was officially recognized and protected by the French government.
1936
Champagne production regulations
Strict regulations were established to protect the quality and reputation of champagne.
1967
Champagne sales boom
Champagne sales experienced a boom, thanks to increased demand from the United States and Japan.
1983
Champagne houses merge
Moët & Chandon and Hennessy merged to form LVMH, the world’s largest luxury goods company.
2015
Champagne sales reach record high
Champagne sales reached a record high of 312.5 million bottles, generating €4.7 billion in revenue.
2020
Champagne and New Year’s Eve
Champagne became synonymous with New Year’s Eve celebrations around the world.

Day Activities

  1. Kick off National Champagne Day with a bang by hosting a bubbly brunch. Gather friends and family to pop open some chilled bottles of Champagne. Don't forget to pair it with classic brunch dishes like eggs Benedict or fresh pastries, creating a feast that's as luxurious as the drink itself.

  2. Dive into the rich history of Champagne by organizing a tasting session. Select a variety of Champagnes, from the crisp and light to the rich and aged. This activity not only tickles your taste buds but also educates guests on the subtle differences between each blend, making for an enlightening afternoon.

  3. As the clock ticks closer to midnight, prepare for the ultimate toast to welcome the New Year. Ensure everyone has a glass of Champagne in hand, ready to celebrate. Sharing stories of the year gone by and making resolutions for the one ahead can make this moment even more memorable.

Interesting Facts

1. Monks' Sparkling Discovery

Monks in Hautvillers stumbled upon sparkling wine, birthing Champagne with the "methode champenoise."

2. Aristocratic Bubbles

By the 18th century, Champagne was the toast of European royalty, symbolizing unmatched luxury.

3. Ruinart Leads the Way

In 1729, Ruinart opened its doors as the first Champagne house, setting a prestigious precedent.

4. Grapes Trio

Champagne's unique taste comes from blending Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes.

5. Aged to Perfection

Before popping, Champagne must age at least 15 months, with some varieties maturing for decades.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating a Symbol of Luxury and Celebration

Who doesn't love a bit of sparkle to ring in the new year? National Champagne Day on December 31st is the perfect excuse to pop open a bottle of bubbly and toast to the finer things in life. This day isn't just about sipping on some sparkling wine; it's a nod to centuries of tradition and craftsmanship that have turned Champagne from a happy accident into a global symbol of celebration. From royal courts to New Year's Eve parties, Champagne has been the go-to for marking significant moments with a bang, or rather, a pop!

  • A Toast to History and Tradition

Diving into the rich history of Champagne is like uncorking a bottle of fascinating stories. The monks of Hautvillers, particularly Dom Pérignon, are often credited with inventing the sparkling wine we adore today. However, it's the centuries of refinement and strict adherence to the "methode champenoise" that have preserved its exclusivity and allure. On National Champagne Day, we're not just enjoying a glass of wine; we're sipping on centuries of history, tradition, and the tireless pursuit of perfection. It's a day to appreciate the art behind each bubble and the stories each bottle tells.

  • Ringing in the New Year with Bubbles

Let's face it, December 31st wouldn't be the same without Champagne. There's something magical about the countdown to midnight, flutes in hand, ready to welcome the new year with a fizz. National Champagne Day aligns perfectly with New Year's Eve, making it a double celebration. It's a time to reflect on the year gone by and to look forward with hope and excitement to what lies ahead. And what better way to do that than with a drink that epitomizes joy, success, and new beginnings? So, here's to National Champagne Day, a day to celebrate the past, present, and future with a pop!

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
DECEMBER 31 2022
DECEMBER 31 2023
DECEMBER 31 2024
DECEMBER 31 2025
DECEMBER 31 2026
DECEMBER 31 2027
DECEMBER 31 2028

FAQ

Is there a national champagne day?

NATIONAL CHAMPAGNE DAY – December 31.

What day is International Champagne Day?

When is Champagne Day? Champagne Day takes place on the 4th Friday of October each year.

What national holiday is on December 31st?

Every year on December 31st, people around the world celebrate New Year's Eve, the last day of the year. It's a day to say “goodbye” to the old and “hello” to the new.

What is the history of Champagne Day?

History of National Champagne Day Since this bubbling drink is traditionally popped on New Year's Eve, the majority of the world unwittingly celebrates it in that way! After first appearing on Twitter in 2010, the hashtag #NationalChampagneDay has since increased in popularity, especially during December and January.