Champagne has long been the drink of celebration – but whether you’re saving a bottle for a special occasion or building a cellar collection, proper storage is key to preserving its delicate character and fine bubbles. Knowing how to store Champagne correctly ensures that every bottle pops just as the winemaker intended.
At Canterbury Wines, we pride ourselves on offering an exceptional range of Champagne – from iconic maisons to boutique grower-producers – and we’re here to help you keep every bottle in peak condition.
Why Proper Champagne Storage Matters
Champagne is a complex and finely balanced wine – its structure, acidity, and effervescence can all be affected by environmental factors. Incorrect storage may dull the flavour, flatten the bubbles, or prematurely age the wine. Whether you’ve purchased a rare vintage or a crisp NV favourite, proper care ensures every sip remains true to style.
Ideal Temperature for Champagne
Temperature stability is one of the most important factors in Champagne storage. The ideal range is between 10-13°C, mirroring the conditions of traditional Champagne cellars in France. Any fluctuations in temperature can cause the liquid to expand and contract, potentially pushing the cork out or allowing air to seep in over time. If you don’t have a wine fridge or temperature-controlled cellar, aim for the coolest, most stable environment in your home – away from heaters, windows or warm kitchens.
Light and Champagne – Here’s What to Avoid
Champagne is particularly sensitive to light exposure, especially ultraviolet light, which can lead to premature ageing or “light strike” (a condition that alters the aroma and taste). This is why Champagne bottles are often dark green or amber – to offer some protection. To store Champagne properly, keep bottles away from direct sunlight and fluorescent lighting. A dim cupboard, wine fridge, or cellar is ideal.
Storing Champagne Upright vs. Laying Down
Unlike still wine, Champagne can be stored upright or on its side, depending on how long you plan to keep it. For short- to medium-term storage, standing bottles upright is perfectly acceptable and may even reduce cork degradation caused by contact with the wine’s high acidity. On the other hand, if you’re cellaring vintage Champagne for several years, laying bottles horizontally helps keep the cork moist, preserving the seal and protecting against oxidation.
How Humidity Affects Champagne
Humidity plays a quiet but crucial role in how to store Champagne long-term – too little humidity can cause corks to dry out and shrink, while too much can promote mould growth on labels and foil. Aim for a relative humidity of around 70%. If you’re using a cellar or wine fridge, check whether it has built-in humidity control. In a home setting, you can help maintain moisture levels with a shallow bowl of water or a small humidifier in the storage area.
Storing Opened Bottles of Champagne
Once opened, Champagne begins to lose its sparkle pretty quickly. To preserve what’s left, seal the bottle with a proper Champagne stopper – these are specifically designed to handle the pressure and prevent gas from escaping. Store the opened bottle in the fridge and enjoy it within 1-3 days… the fresher, the better!
Here are Some Common Champagne Storage Mistakes to Avoid
If you’re investing in fine Champagne, it pays to avoid these common pitfalls:
- Storing bottles near strong odours: Champagne corks are porous, and over time, nearby smells (like cleaning products or spices) can taint the wine.
- Keeping bottles in the fridge long-term: Domestic fridges are often too dry and cold for prolonged storage.
- Exposing Champagne to vibration: Constant movement can disturb the sediment in vintage bottles and disrupt the wine’s structure.
Get in touch
At Canterbury Wines, we don’t just sell Champagne – we’re passionate about it. Whether you’re starting your collection or looking for a special bottle to mark a milestone, our expert team can help you select, store, and serve with confidence. Explore our curated Champagne selection online and feel free to get in touch if you’d like personalised advice on storing your wine the right way.