From Bubbly Baths to Locker Room Spray Downs: The Wild World of Championship Champagne

When it comes to sports championships, one tradition that has become synonymous with the celebration of victory is popping champagne bottles.

But why do athletes do this? What is the history behind this practice? And why champagne in particular?

The tradition of popping champagne bottles after a sports championship dates back to the early 20th century, when it became a popular way for race car drivers to celebrate their victories. According to legend, the tradition began when the winning driver of the 1906 French Grand Prix, Moët & Chandon's André Michelin, was given a bottle of champagne after his victory. Not having a corkscrew, Michelin reportedly popped the cork with a sabre, and the celebration caught on.

Over time, this tradition spread to other sports, and now it's common to see athletes from all kinds of sports popping champagne bottles after winning a championship. But why champagne in particular?

Champagne has become the drink of choice for championship celebrations for a few reasons. First, it's a luxurious and celebratory drink that has been associated with special occasions for centuries. Second, the popping of the cork and the spraying of the champagne create a visually dramatic and exciting moment that is perfect for celebrating a hard-earned victory. Finally, champagne has a long history of association with sports and athletic achievement. It has been the official drink of the Formula 1 Grand Prix for decades and has been a staple of victory celebrations in other sports as well.

While the most well-known champagne brands, such as Dom Perignon and Moet & Chandon, are always popular choices for championship celebrations, there are plenty of other options out there that are just as delicious but less well-known.

While champagne has become the drink of choice for championship celebrations, it's not just about the drink itself - it's about the excitement and drama of popping the cork and spraying the champagne in celebration of a hard-earned victory. Whether it's a well-known brand like Dom Perignon or a lesser-known gem like Billecart-Salmon, the right bottle of champagne can make a championship celebration truly special.

Here are three of my favorites at different price points:

1. Palmes d'Or Brut Vintage 2008 (~$150) - This high-end champagne is perfect for a truly special occasion. It's made from 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Noir grapes and has a rich, complex flavor with notes of honey and citrus.
2. Billecart-Salmon Brut Reserve (~$50) - This champagne has a bright, crisp flavor that is perfect for celebrations. It's made from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes and has a light, refreshing finish.
3. Ruinart Blanc de Blancs (~$100) - This champagne is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, giving it a unique and delicate flavor. It has a light, effervescent finish with notes of apple and pear.

While champagne definitely makes the moment more special, it's the people and memories that truly make it memorable. So cheers to celebrating the victories both big and small, and always drink responsibly.