Bubble Babes: A Brief History of the Fancy Glass That Makes Your Champagne Taste Better (Or Does It?)

The champagne flute is a symbol of luxury and celebration, and its long, slender shape is instantly recognizable as a vessel for sparkling wine. But where did this iconic glass come from, and how did it become so closely associated with champagne?

The history of the champagne flute can be traced back to the 17th century, when sparkling wine was first produced in the Champagne region of France. At this time, champagne was typically served in a wide, shallow glass called a coupe. The shape of the coupe was said to have been modeled on the breast of Marie Antoinette (proven false, but makes a good tale), and it became the standard vessel for champagne throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.

However, in the early 20th century, a new glass style began to gain popularity among champagne connoisseurs. This glass was long and slender, with a narrow bowl and a tall stem, and it was designed to showcase the bubbles and aroma of the wine. The French glassware company Baccarat made the first champagne flutes, and their popularity quickly spread throughout Europe and the United States.

One of the earliest and most famous proponents of the champagne flute was the French fashion designer Coco Chanel. Chanel was known for her impeccable taste and love of luxury, and she was often seen sipping champagne from a slender flute at parties and events. Her endorsement of the flute helped cement its status as the vessel of choice for champagne lovers worldwide.

Throughout the 20th century, the champagne flute continued to evolve and change. In the 1950s and 60s, the shape of the bowl became more narrow and elongated, allowing for even more bubbles to rise to the surface of the wine. In the 1970s and 80s, some designers began experimenting with different shapes and sizes of champagne glasses, creating new vessels that were more sculptural and artistic.

Despite these changes, the classic champagne flute remains the most widely recognized and beloved vessel for sparkling wine. Its long, slender shape is designed to showcase the delicate bubbles and complex flavors of champagne, and it has become an essential part of the champagne experience for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

In recent years, there has been some debate about the best vessel for champagne. Some experts argue that the traditional flute can actually inhibit the aroma and flavor of the wine, and that a wider, more open glass may be a better choice. Others argue that the flute is an essential part of the champagne experience, and that its long, elegant shape is part of what makes the wine so special.

Regardless of which side of the debate you fall on, there is no denying the important role that the champagne flute has played in the history of sparkling wine. From its humble beginnings in the Champagne region of France to its status as a symbol of luxury and celebration, the champagne flute is a testament to the enduring appeal of champagne, and to the enduring creativity and innovation of the glassware designers who have helped to shape its history.