How to Choose the Perfect Champagne for Your Wedding Toast

When it comes to your wedding day, every detail matters. From the dress and the venue to the food and music, everything plays a role in creating a day to remember. But one part that often gets less attention than it deserves is the champagne toast. This moment is more than just clinking glasses. It's a shared celebration between you, your partner, and your loved ones. Picking the right champagne for this special moment can make it feel even more magical.

Understand Your Budget

Champagne comes in all shapes, sizes, and price tags. Before you fall in love with a luxury bottle, think about how much you're willing to spend. Are you planning a toast just for the wedding party, or will everyone be raising a glass? If you’ve got a bit of room in your budget, something elegant like a magnum of Ruinart can offer both quality and visual impact. Larger bottles also make for a lovely photo moment. But remember, there are plenty of delicious options that won’t break the bank. The key is balance—great taste without going overboard on cost.

Consider the Style of Champagne

Champagne isn't just one thing. There are different styles to suit various palates. If you want something classic and crisp, go for a Brut. It’s dry, refreshing, and works well for most people. For a sweeter sip, consider Demi-Sec or Sec. These pair nicely with dessert or for couples who prefer a softer taste.

Rosé Champagne has become quite trendy for weddings. It adds a pop of colour to your toast and often has fruity notes, which many guests enjoy. You might also want to explore Blanc de Blancs, which is made purely from Chardonnay grapes and tends to be light and elegant. Alternatively, Blanc de Noirs, made from darker grapes, offers a richer flavour.

Match It with Your Wedding Theme

Think about the mood and look of your wedding. A rustic outdoor setting might go well with something lighter and fruitier. A grand ballroom celebration could call for a bold and refined champagne. The champagne you choose should match the atmosphere you’re creating. That doesn’t mean it has to be fancy, but it should feel like part of the event, not just an add-on.

If you’re planning a more intimate gathering, you could select a small-producer champagne. These are often handcrafted and can be quite special without being overly expensive. For larger weddings, you may need something more accessible in terms of quantity, so a trusted, well-known brand could be the right move.

Taste Before You Buy

Don’t rely on labels alone. If possible, attend a tasting or buy a few single bottles in advance. This way, you can try different styles and see which one feels right. Everyone has a different sense of taste, and what might be perfect for someone else may not suit your celebration.

Ask your wine shop for guidance. Many staff are happy to help couples choose something memorable. You might discover a hidden gem that becomes your “wedding champagne” forever.

Check the Bottle Size

Weddings are about sharing, and champagne is no different. Regular bottles serve about six glasses. Magnums, which hold twice as much, serve around twelve. They not only look stunning but also help keep the pouring steady and stylish. If you’ve got a large guest list, consider ordering a mix of bottle sizes. It can be more practical and add a visual flair to your bar or drinks table.

Think About Storage and Serving

Don’t forget the basics. Champagne should be chilled, ideally around 7 to 10 degrees Celsius. Make sure your venue has enough space to keep bottles cold. Also, speak to your caterer or bar team about when and how the champagne will be served. Timing is important—you want everyone to have a glass in hand when it’s time to raise a toast.

Use proper flutes or tulip-shaped glasses to enhance the bubbles and aroma. It may sound like a small thing, but presentation makes a big difference, especially in photos and videos.

Make It Personal

Finally, think about what champagne means to you. Maybe there’s a brand you enjoyed on your first date or during a trip. Perhaps you want to support a local producer or choose something unique. Personal touches like these can make your toast feel more heartfelt and genuine.

Choosing the right champagne isn’t just about taste or price. It’s about setting the tone for a shared moment of joy. So take your time, explore your options, and pick something that speaks to you as a couple. After all, it’s your day—and your toast should be just as special.