The Art of Pouring Champagne
Ever wondered how a glass should be correctly filled with champagne? According to French scientists, pouring champagne down the side of the glass helps preserve both its taste and fizz – provided the sparkling liquid has also been well chilled.
There had been a lot of debate among researchers at the University of Reims in France to resolve a prolonged disagreement over what is the best way to pour a glass of champagne. Apparently, how quickly the dissolved gas (mainly carbon dioxide) escapes from the champagne has a big influence over how the champagne would taste. So, the scientists set out to measure the rate of loss of dissolved carbon dioxide during champagne serving. And no, we are not talking about just popping the top and pouring it into a glass like the way you would pour any other drink. Meticulous research and thought have been put in place to ensure champagne lovers get the best out of their bottle of bubbly bliss.
Past studies have shown that low effervescence enhances the taste, aroma, and mouth-feel of the champagne.
Gerald Liger-Belair and his colleagues from University of Reims carried out an experiment to see how the act of pouring a glass of champagne could impact the rate of bubble release and the quality of the taste of the champagne.
Two different pouring methods were carried. One involved pouring champagne straight down the middle of the glass while the other focused on pouring it down the side of the glass, held at an angle.
According to their study that was published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, “Pouring champagne down the side preserved up to twice as much carbon dioxide in champagne than pouring down the middle, probably because the angled method was gentler.”
It was also shown that cooler champagne temperatures at about 39 degrees Fahrenheit (3.8 Celsius) helped reduce the rate of carbon dioxide released.
“Low temperatures prolong the drink’s chill and help it to retain its effervescence during the pouring process,” they said.
Elites, raise your glasses and get ready the clinking!
(Source: Reuters Lifestyle)
