How Far in Advance Can I Buy Champagne for My Wedding?

Unopened champagne can be stored for a number of years.

Champagne comes from the Champagne region of France. It is fermented twice to produce pressure and fizz. Champagne is aged anywhere from a year and a half to more than 10 years. It is usually ready to be opened by the time you buy it; however, if you purchase a bottle before your wedding, you can still keep it for a while.

Vintage vs. Nonvintage

Storing Champagne depends on whether the bottle is labeled vintage or nonvintage. Vintage Champagnes are made of a single crop of grapes from a particular year. These are produced in specific years when better quality grapes are harvested. The Champagne usually lasts longer, more than 10 years in some cases. Nonvintage champagne can be made of grapes from a combination of years. These should be opened within five years.

Long-Term Storage

Wines do not like fluctuating temperatures, and Champagnes are no different. When storing the bottle, it's best kept in a cool room away from light at a constant temperature of 51 degrees Fahrenheit.

Other Conditions

Champagne is usually served chilled. The bottles can be transferred to the fridge a few hours before your wedding.

References

• Epicurious: A Champagne Primer
• Champagne Information Bureau: The Champagne Appellation
• BYOB Guide: Champagne Questions