How to Saber a Champagne Bottle Like a Pro

Pop or Saber? A Sparkling Celebration with Style:

Sabrage—the art of opening a bottle of champagne with a sword—may sound like something out of a swashbuckling movie, but it’s actually a time-honored tradition that dates back to the days of Napoleon. And yes, it’s just as fun (and dramatic) as it sounds.

Whether you’re ringing in a milestone or just want to add flair to a Friday night, sabering a bottle of Alexandrie North Coast Brut or Alexandrie Sonoma Brut Rosé is a celebration in itself. Here's how to do it safely, confidently, and with plenty of sparkle.

What You'll Need:

  • A chilled bottle of Alexandrie Cellars sparkling wine (well-chilled is key!)
  • A saber (or the back of a heavy kitchen knife—not the blade)
  • A towel
  • Protective eyewear (optional, but smart)

Step-by-Step: How to Saber a Champagne Bottle

Step 1: Chill the Bottle
The bottle needs to be very cold—around 45°F (7°C) or lower. A warm bottle is more likely to shatter, not saber. Place it in a bucket of ice water for 30 minutes if needed.

Step 2: Remove the Foil and Cage
Carefully peel off the foil and loosen the wire cage. Leave the cage on, but untwisted—this adds stability and safety during the saber.

Step 3: Find the Seam
Every champagne bottle has two vertical seams running from base to neck. These are your guide rails. Follow one of the seams up to the lip where the cork meets the bottle. That’s your target.

Step 4: Hold at a 45° Angle
Grip the base of the bottle firmly with a towel, pointing it away from people, pets, and breakables. Tilt the bottle at a 45-degree angle.

Step 5: The Big Moment
With a quick, firm motion, slide your saber (or knife spine) along the seam toward the neck. You’re aiming to hit the lip of the bottle where the seam meets the collar. Don’t chop—slide through with confidence.

POP!
If done correctly, the top of the neck will break clean off with the cork still inside—and your sparkling Alexandrie will be ready to pour.

Safety Tips

  • Always saber away from people.
  • Don’t use a warm or shaken bottle.
  • Check for glass shards before pouring (though a clean break usually leaves none).

Why Saber?

Because it turns a simple pop into a ceremony. It’s about creating a moment—something unforgettable. And at Alexandrie Cellars, we believe every bottle is worth celebrating in style.

So grab a bottle of our elegantly crafted Brut or blush-pink Brut Rosé, and saber in your next sparkling memory. 🥂

Shop Sparkle-Worthy Bottles:
Explore Alexandrie Brut | Try Alexandrie Brut Rosé

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