Champagne is one of the most popular sparkling wines and is sometimes called a “celebration in a bottle.” This sparkling wine is always a great choice for celebrations, adding sparkle to special moments. While the bottle seems luxurious, drinking this fine wine is an art. But when it comes to the right kind to enjoy this bubbly pleasure, the question becomes a debate. Can I enjoy champagne in a wine glass?

Champagne has long been associated with tradition and is served in flutes and stemmed glasses. Now many people are wondering if a simple glass of wine can provide a new and better way to enjoy this sparkling beauty. To answer this question, let's first look at the basics of the fluted glass, which is often referred to as the right glass for champagne.

The Legacy of the Champagne Flutes

As previously stated, Champagne has been served in long, slender flute glasses since ancient times. This classic glass is designed to accentuate the Champagne's bubbly texture, the flow of tiny bubbles rising to the surface, and aerating the fresh, crisp flavours and aromas. The flute's narrow opening is created to preserve the Champagne's lively effervescence, allowing the bubbles to remain longer, producing that mild and lovely fizz we all love and get excited about. 

But what if you don’t have flute glasses? Will a regular wine glass do the job? Let's find out here!

The Case for the Regular Wine Glass

While a flute is undeniably a great option for enjoying Champagne, many Champagne fans are gradually starting to embrace the idea of using a regular wine glass instead. Why? The broader bowl of a regular wine glass allows more space for the wines’ aromas to open up, giving your senses a rich and exciting experience.

When you pour Champagne into a wine glass, the aroma intensifies, and you get a much fuller nose of the wine. Because of the narrow form of the flute, these aromas are often held captive. Thanks to the wine glass you can experience not only the bubbles but also the full bouquet of aromas that makes Champagne a unique sparkling wine—an aspect which is commonly skipped with a flute.

In addition, the deeper bowl of a regular glass of wine provides greater control over the precise temperature. Champagne is very chilled when poured into a stem goblet, which is fine but can sometimes mask delicate aromas and flavours. In a wine glass, Champagne is warmed slightly, so it shows the full flavour spectrum.

What About the Bubbles?

One of the main concerns many Champagne lovers have is the disappearance of bubbles when using a wine glass. The flute's narrow shape has been said to trap bubbles, keeping them from escaping too easily and quickly. The larger size of the wine glass can cause Champagne to lose its fizz. However, a difference has been discovered, which is not as substantial as some may believe. Even though the bubbles won't linger as long as they would in a flute, the enhanced flavour and aroma may make the difference.

Some Champagne fans and wine professionals frequently discuss whether the loss of bubbles is merely a small price to pay for a more full, nuanced tasting experience, or if bubbles are important. With that in mind, we should consider noticing that the main purpose of champagne is to let you enjoy the rich flavours, structure and complexity, not just the bubbles and fizz.

What Does This Mean for You?

The truth is that wine drinking is entirely subjective. Similarly, Champagnes and other wines are intended to offer a pleasurable experience and an aura of comfort that you enjoy. Whether you're sipping it alone, sharing it with loved ones, or toasting to something special, it all depends on what feels right to you. In terms of visual appearance, if you prefer the exquisite, dazzling look and feel of a flute, go ahead and use one. However, if you like the rich and vibrant flavours of champagne, a glass of regular wine may be the best way to enjoy it. You will be able to savour every sip and enjoy the wonderful aromas.

Our POV

The tasting panel experts at Just Wines believe in enjoying your favourite drink in a way that works for you. Whether it's champagne or another bubbly delight, we want you to embrace the joy of drinking in a way that brings joy and satisfaction.

So, the next time you open a bottle of your favourite champagne, don't be afraid to decant it with regular wine; grab what you have and enjoy it. Enjoy the bubbles, aromas, and flavours in a style that suits you best. After all, it's not about the glass; it's about the memories you create and the joy you experience with every sip.

Explore our top Champagne picks at Just Wines—perfectly suited to elevate your experience, even when served in regular wine glasses.

Let's raise a glass to celebrate Champagne and all the little things in our lives in our own special way. Cheers to that!