The Art of Sabrage: How To Saber a Bottle of Champagne
No doubt, many of you reading this having attempted to saber a bottle of Champagne before and we believe you when you tell us that it went off without a hitch (insert winking smiley face here). The Noble Art of Sabrage is truly an art form, and executing a seamless and show-stopping display of sabering bravado requires a bit more preparation than you might expect.
That’s why we created this infographic (pictured below) and sought advice from two NYC-based sabering-pros (their insights are further below).
The practice of sabering is thought to have originated in France during the time of Louis XIV and made popular by the light cavalry men (Hussars) of Napoleon’s army. Granted, when celebrating victory (or drowning themselves in defeat) it’s a good guess that the bottles of bubbly these men sabered were anything but chilled, however, chilling a bottle is an important step and one that many videos and articles around the web fail to mention. The difference between a successful outcome and one that isn’t so glorious, could be the difference between chilling the bottle and neck, just prior to sabering (we recommend a minimum of 45 degrees Fahrenheit).
Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan, Master of Wine and partner in Wine Ring app, has done a lot of sabering on camera. In this video she guides Anderson Cooper and Kathy Griffin on how to pop the top. She’s even used a lightsaber–no wonder she’s a @JediWineMaster. (Spoiler alert: no real lightsabers were used in the sabering of the bottle pictured below).
“Sabering is as about as bad@$$ as it gets with wine,” says Simonetti-Bryan, and we’re with her on the “bad@$$” part. “The thing is,” she cautions, “is that it’s also dangerous, so make sure the bottle is cold, then find vertical seam that goes around the bottle. Next, remove all the foil and the wire cage and tilt the bottle at a 45-degree angle (reason? so it doesn’t spill) and have your saber at about 30 degrees from the flat surface of the bottle. Then, glide your sword perpendicular to the vertical seam until it meets the glass lip. Pretend like the lip isn’t there and follow through and use enough force (but not too much) so that the cork comes flying off.”
Additionally, Jennifer reminds us to ensure the bottle is cold and not dropped or shaken as “this makes the bottle more combustable and more unpredictable.” And one detail you definitely don’t want to overlook: “Make sure the bottle is not etched in any way such as vintage or anniversary or anything (this causes the bottle in it’s “weakest link” to shift from where the seam meets the lip to where the bottle is etched…which means glass shards go flying dangerously.” So, yeah: those fancy etched bottles should be opened the old fashioned way.
Then there’s Mr. Patrick Cappiello (@patrickwine), who many of you might know from Delectable, since he curated a guide to sabering (#saberit) over the holidays for the app. Cappiello is the wine director and partner of Pearl & Ash in New York City where sabering is often a nightly past-time. The P&A team is opening a new restaurant called Rebelle this spring with a French Chef and we hope sabering carries over with the finest French Champagne. Cappiello also hosts Playboy’s weekly wine series called Tasting Notes.
Patrick has five Cappiello-approved rules for sabering:
- Use a cold bottle, warm ones have higher psi and more likely to explode.
- Once you remove the cage on the cork, don’t point it at anyone (unless you don’t like them). The cork can pop out at any point, it’s kinda like a loaded gun.
- Slide the blade down the neck at a moderate speed. You’re not knocking the head off, just trying to crack the glass at the top of the bottle.
- Never Saber a bottle of rosé bubbles over a white couch (I’m speaking from experience).
- Never saber drunk, better to get drunk after sabering.
We feel confident that with all this expert advice, your sabering adventures will go smoothly. May the force be with you!
You acknowledge that Sabrage is a hazardous recreation activity with risk of damage or personal injury. By following these instructions you accept full responsibility for your own safety, the safety of others and expressly assume all risks of harm, whether foreseen or unforeseen.
Explore more
Related Posts
-
Finding the Hidden Rhône
by Joe Roberts A closer look at some of the more intriguing Villages added t...
-
Episode 26 - Andrew Jefford: Drinking with the Valkyries
In this episode, Catherine Bugué sits down with Andrew Jefford to have a deep...
-
Episode 25 - Steven Spurrier: A Life In Wine
In this episode, Peter Marks and Christian Oggenfuss chat with Steven about h...
-
Episode 24 - The Life and Wines of Hugh Johnson
In this episode, our very own Catherine Bugué interviews the world’s best sel...
-
Episode 23 - Oz Clarke on Wine
In this episode, our very own Catherine Bugué interviews the inimitable Oz Cl...
-
Episode 22 - Hugh Johnson - The Story of a Wine Giant
IN EPISODE 22, IN THIS EPISODE, WE CATCH UP WITH WINE LEGEND, HUGH JOHNSON. ...
-
Episode 21 - Steven Spurrier - The Story of Bride Valley Sparkling Wine
IN EPISODE 21, WE SIT DOWN WITH ONE OF THE WINE INDUSTRY’S MOST STORIED AND...
-
Episode 20 - Wine and War - The Story of Lebanon
In Episode 20, we sit down with Michael Karam, the author of Wines of Lebanon...
-
Episode 19 - The Story of Franciacorta
In Episode 19, we sit down with Giammario Villa, Master Taster, Sommelier, an...
-
Episode 18 - Peter Mondavi Jr. - Stories of a Dynasty
In Episode 18, we sit down with Peter Mondavi, Jr. of Charles Krug Winery, In...
-
Episode 17 - Rodrigo Soto - Journey to Biodynamics
In Episode 17, we sit down with winemaker Rodrigo Soto, In this episode, Chri...
-
Episode 16 - Vanessa Conlin - Journey to MW
In Episode 16, we sit down with Vanessa Conlin, MW. A note from Jonathan Cris...
-
Episode 15 - Paul Mabray - Wine Industry's Digital Godfather
In Episode 15, we sit down with Paul Mabray, the digital godfather to the win...
-
Episode 14 - Dr. Paulo Lopes - Myths and Truths of Cork
In Episode 14, we sit down with Dr. Paulo Lopes, a Portugues scientist and on...
-
Episode 13 - Dan Dawson, Recovering Wine Shop Owner
In episode 13 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine we sp...
-
Episode 12 - Lisa Strid, Winemaker
In episode 12 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine we speak...
-
Episode 11 - Cathy Corison, Winemaker
In episode 11 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine we speak...
-
Episode 10 - Stu Smith, Winemaker
In Episode 10 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we spea...
-
Episode 9 - Dan Petroski, Winemaker
In Episode 9 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we speak...
-
Episode 8 - Mary Margaret McCamic MW
In Episode 8 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we speak...
-
Episode 7 - Angela Maculan
In Episode 7 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we speak...
-
Episode 6 - Master of Wine vs Master Sommelier
In Episode 6 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we explo...
-
Episode 5 - Rob McMillan's Story
In Episode 5 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we speak...
-
Episode 4 - Steve Matthiasson's Story
In Episode 4 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we speak...
-
Episode 3 - Interview with Ian Harris
On today’s show, I sit down with I’m in, in Michael Harris is my middle name...
-
Episode 2 - Interview with Joel Aiken
In Episode 2 of the Stories Behind Wine we sit down with renowned vintner and...
-
Episode 1 - Interview with Richard Mendelson
Interview with Richard Mendelson In Episode 1 we interview Richard Mendelson ...
-
The Evolution of Wine Labels, and What We Can Learn From Them
While over 80% of consumers admit to choosing wine by its label, they tend to...
-
The Prison Wine Estate of Gorgona
Arrival at Gorgona is similar to any other cozy Mediterranean island apart f...
-
ENHANCING WINE SELECTION SKILLS WITH NAPA VALLEY WINE ACADEMY’S WSET LEVEL 2 AWARD IN WINE
Diving into Napa Valley Wine Academy’s WSET 2 Award in Wines marks the begi...
-
Is WSET Level 2 a Sommelier or a pathway to becoming a Sommelier?
What is a Sommelier? Exploring the Foundations with Napa Valley Wine Academy ...
-
Exploring Wine Varieties Through WSET Levels
Jumping into WSET levels is like going on an adventure through a wine world t...
-
Understanding What Does WSET Stand For (Wine & Spirit Education Trust)
When asking “What does WSET stand for?”, the answer unfolds in two significan...
-
Navigating Online WSET Level 1 and Online WSET Level 2 Exams: A Guide to Success
The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) offers globally recognized quali...
-
Embarking on a Beverage Journey: Napa Valley Wine Academy's WSET Level 1 Courses
In the vast and vibrant world of beverages, starting your educational journey...
-
Benefits of Achieving Napa Valley Wine Academy WSET 4 Certification
Why you should get your Napa Valley Wine Academy WSET 4 Diploma Global Recog...
-
WSET Levels Explained: Which Course is Right for You?
Understanding the WSET Landscape The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET)...
-
Become an Expert in Napa Valley Wines — Crafting a Winning Study Strategy In WSET Courses
The journey through the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program offe...
-
Understanding Sweetness in Wine: A Guide to International Standards and WSET Approaches
Wine sweetness significantly influences the tasting experience, shaping a win...
-
Exploring the World of Wine: The Unmatched Value of Educational Trips for WSET Studies
Educational wine trips provide an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself...
-
Navigating the World of Wine: The Essential Role of Maps in WSET Studies
In the complex world of wine studies, maps are not just tools for navigation;...
-
Discovering the Characteristics of Common Grape Varieties Through WSET Levels
The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program offers an enlighten...
-
Mastery of the WSET Tasting Exams: Combining Sensory Acumen with Intellectual Rigor
Mastery of the WSET Tasting Exams: Combining Sensory Acumen with Intellectual...
-
Cultivating Excellence in the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wine: Key Traits for Student Success
WSET Level 4 Diploma with Napa Valley Wine Academy Embarking on the WSET Lev...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 39 - Laura Deyermond, Newton Vineyards
My guest today is Laura Deyermond, Head of Viticulture for Newton Vineyards ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 38 - Elizabeth Vianna, Winemaker, Chimney Rock
Today I am honored to introduce you to Elizabeth Vianna, Winemaker and GM of...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 37 - Brittany Merritt & Kristi Gardner, SGWS Talent Acquisition Team
We’ve finally come to the third and final episode in our series featuring th...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 36 - Jean Cox, Instructor
One of the most frequently asked questions I get is how to become a wine edu...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 35 - Mike Cashion & Chip Turrisi, SGWS Talent Acquisition Team
I’m excited to bring you part 2 of our 3-part series featuring the talent ac...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 34 - Jodie Battles, Beverage Director, JK Food Group
Today you’ll meet Jodie Battles, Managing Partner & Beverage Director f...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 33 - Cindy Peck, Director of Career Strategy, Drucker School of Management
We are all about helping you increase your odds of finding the wine job of y...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 32 - Vince Pierce - Sr. Dir. of Talent Acquisition with SGWS
I’m so glad you’re joining me today. I was lucky enough to connect with the...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 31 - Allison Day - Founder & Creative Director, Good Things Done Right
In this episode you will meet my fantastic guest, Allison Day, who started...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 30 - Amber Mihna - Staglin Family Vineyard Director of Global Sales
Have you ever wondered what’s it like to work for one of the most prestigio...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 29 - Zak Miller and TJ Evans - The Winemaking Team at Domaine Carneros
My very special guests today are both winemakers at the famed Domaine Carner...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 28 - Clare Tooley- VP, Guest Services, Boisset Collection
Every guest we’ve showcased on the show has had an interesting wine journey ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 27 - ParisWineGirl, Consultant, Entrepreneur - Emily Lester
When you think of a career in the wine industry do you find yourself dreamin...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 26 - Cuvee Collective - Andrew Allison
One of the things I love most about the wine industry is that it is steeped ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 25 - Wine Unify - Alicia Towns Franken
Today I’m honored to introduce you to Alicia Towns Franken, a veteran of the...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 24 - Italian Wine Professional certification program & Co-founder of ItalianWineCentral.com - Geralyn Brostrom
Geralyn Brostrom is an instructor in the Wine MBA program at the Wine Busin...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 23 - Wine Writer - Jonathan Cristaldi
If you have ever thought about sharing your passion for wine by writing ab...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 22 - Wine Industry Consultant - Dale Stratton
My guest today is Dale Stratton. Dale has spent the better part of 40 years...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 21 - Napa Valley Wine Academy - Catherine Bugue
My guest today is Catherine Bugue, co-founder and VP of Education at Napa Va...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 20 - Blends & Bubbly - DeLauren Everett
In this episode you are going to meet my good friend, and wine entrepreneu...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 19 - Somm Foundation - Thomas Price & Ashley Hausman
Join us and meet Master Sommelier Thomas Price and Master of Wine Ashley Hau...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 18 - Wine Access - Vanessa Conlin
In this episode you’ll meet Mater of Wine, Vanessa Conlin. Vanessa is the C...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 17 - Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars - Nate Weiss
Have you ever pictured yourself coming home at the end of your work day wit...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 16 - Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits - Bailey Gins
In this episode we you’ll meet Bailey Gins from SGWS. She started off in a s...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 15 - Wine, Beer & Spirits - Gary Schneidkraut
If you’re looking for resources to help you find a job in the wine industr...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 14- African American Vintners - Phil Long
In this episode, I was honored to bring you my up close and personal inter...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 13- Vitro Ad Agency - Chrissy Frentz
Meet Chrissy Frentz, Program Director for Vitro Ad Agency. Chrissy oversees ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 12 - Delicato Family Wines - Paul Bourget
My guest today is Paul Bourget, VP of Consumer Insights for Delicato Famil...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 11 - WineJobs.com - Eric Jorgensen
If you are searching for a wine industry job on one of those big job search ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 10 - Hess Perssons Estate - Beth McCauly
In today’s episode, you’ll meet, Beth McCauley, a Division Manager for The ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 9 - Heidelberg Distributing - Pat O'Sullivan
Have you ever thought about becoming a wine sales rep or wondered what it wo...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 8 - Vine Pair - Cat Wolinski
In this episode I’ll talk to Cat Wolinski, Senior Editor at VinePair, the la...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 7 - Wente Vineyards - Aly Wente
Founded in 1883, Wente Vineyards is located in Livermore California and is...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 6 - One Hope Wines - Tiffany Wojtkiewicz
You’ve probably heard about home-based wine sales, but have you ever wondered...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 5 - Michael Cerio - Distinguished Vineyards
In this Episode, Karen Wetzel speaks with Michael Cerio, VP of Operations fo...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 4 - Peter Marks Master of Wine
IN THIS EPISODE OF WINE, WORK & PASSION, WE’LL TALK TO PETER MARKS, MAST...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 3 - Curtis Mann - Albertsons
Book a career coaching session with Karen: https://go.oncehub.com/KarenWetzel...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 2 - Morgan Bailey - Quintessa Winery
Welcome to the Wine, Work & Passion Podcast where our mission is to hel...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 1 - The Launch - Wine, Work & Passion
Welcome to the Wine, Work & Passion Podcast where our mission is to help...
Jonathan Cristaldi
Cristaldi is the Northern California editor-at-large for The SOMM Journal and The Tasting Panel magazines. He is a regular contributor to Food & Wine magazine and acting editor and contributor for Napa Valley Wine Academy’s “Pouring Points” blog. He is also the founder and content director for Cristaldi & Co, a creative-content agency servicing the beverage industry and cannabis community. His work has appeared in Los Angeles Magazine and LA Mag’s Liquid LA blog, Vivino.com, Liquor.com, First We Feast, Thrillist (National Edition), Tasting Table (National Edition), Time Out LA and Psychology Today. Cristaldi was named a "Wine Prophet" by Time Out New York for his avant-garde approach to wine education and events a decade ago as the host and co-founder of The Noble Rot. Follow him on Instagram @jcristaldi