Top 5 Wedding Champagnes and Tips for Choosing Yours

Wedding planning can feel like a never-ending to-do list, a whirlwind of decisions from the venue to the dress to the seating chart. And now, on top of it all, you're supposed to become a champagne expert overnight?

Let us take some of the stress off your plate with our tried-and-true tips and recommendations for choosing the perfect champagne. And with National Champagne Day just around the corner (October 23rd, mark your calendars), there's no better time to start thinking about it!

But first…what is champagne, anyway?

Champagne isn't just any sparkling wine. It’s produced exclusively in the Champagne region of France, following strict regulations – as the French love to remind us. It's made with specific grapes (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier) and undergoes a unique secondary fermentation in the bottle, creating those signature bubbles. This labour-intensive process gives Champagne its complex flavours and luxurious texture.

Tips for choosing your wedding champagne:

• Keep your budget in mind: Champagne can range from budget-friendly to eye-wateringly expensive. If you're watching your spending, you can pick a more affordable option for your guests and save that special bottle for the top table.
• Consider your menu: Champagne isn't just for toasting – it can also complement your wedding menu beautifully. When choosing your bubbly, consider how it will pair with your dishes. 
• Support sustainability: Many champagne producers are now embracing eco-friendly practices. Look for labels that highlight organic or biodynamic farming if sustainability is important to you.
• Don't forget the non-drinkers: Offer a delicious non-alcoholic sparkling wine or mocktail for guests who are not drinking, like a sophisticated elderflower concoction. 
• Go straight to the source: If you have the opportunity, consider visiting the Champagne region and buying directly from a producer. It's a chance to find a unique bottle that tells your story.

Now, on to our top 5 picks for your wedding day:

Dericbourg Cuvée de Réserve Brut (£30-£40)

This one's our house champagne for a reason. With its gentle biscuit aromas and refined fruit flavours, it's both elegant and approachable – perfect for toasting and pairing with canapés or a light seafood starter. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a big celebration, the Dericbourg Cuvée de Réserve Brut is bound to please the crowd.

Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut (£40-£50)

You simply can't go wrong with this iconic champagne. Its bright fruitiness, seductive palate, and elegant maturity make it a classic choice for celebrations. Perfect for toasting the newlyweds or enjoying during the reception. Plus, its elegant bottle will look stunning in photos.

Dom Pérignon Vintage (£150+) 

For those looking to splurge on a truly luxurious champagne, Dom Pérignon is the definition of opulence. Each bottle is vintage, aged to perfection, and has a silky complexity with layers of ripe fruit, toast, and almond. One glass of this and your guests will feel like royalty.

Crémant d'Alsace (£15-£25)

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option that still delivers on taste, Crémant d'Alsace is a great choice. Made in the same method as champagne but from different grapes, it offers similar flavours and bubbles at a fraction of the price.

Gusbourne Brut Reserve (£40-£50)

British bubbles are having their moment in the sun, and rightfully so. With their crisp acidity and elegant flavours, English sparkling wines from producers like Gusbourne are a fantastic alternative to champagne that rival their French counterparts. These are perfect for couples wanting to offer something distinctive while supporting local producers.

Remember, the best champagne for your wedding is the one that reflects your style and love story. Whether you opt for classic French elegance or a British alternative, make sure it complements your menu and adds sparkle to your big day.