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What is Sabrage?

It can seem daunting when you are initially handed a sabre and a chilled bottle of Champagne with the expectation that you will sever the top of the bottle with the sword’s blade.

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Do not be downhearted! No-one has ever failed and all it needs is a firm wrist with a high elbow and you’ll be back at your table regaling your fellow guests with tales of how easy it really was.

The Art of Sabrage – Tutorial & History
The Art of Sabrage – Tutorial & History

When performed on a suitably chilled bottle of Champagne, the cork and glass annulus fly away, spilling little of the precious wine. The pressure of the Champagne always ensures that no glass falls back into the bottle.

 

The image left shows a Methusalem (8 bottles) being Sabraged. The cork in mid-flight has been captured by some expert camerawork.

Step 2

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Carefully remove the wire around the cork.

If the champagne has been properly chilled, the cork will remain in the bottle.

The Art of Sabrage – Tutorial & History

Step 3

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Find one of the two seams along the side of the bottle. At the same time, you can remove the foil which will impede the sliding movement of the sabre.

When you are an experienced sabreur, this will not be necessary.

The Art of Sabrage – Tutorial & History

Step 5

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With a firm sweep, slide the sabre along the seam to meet the ring at the top. Your firm sliding of the sabre against this ring is aided by the internal pressure of the bottle, so that the cork flies dramatically away.

The Art of Sabrage – Tutorial & History

Step 4

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With your arm extended, hold the bottle firmly by placing the thumb inside the punt at the base. Make sure the neck is pointing up – around 30° from horizontal. Make sure no one is in your line of fire.

Calmly lay the sabre flat along the seam of the bottle with the sharp edge ready to slide firmly against the glass annulus, or ring, at the top of the bottle.

The Art of Sabrage – Tutorial & History
The Art of Sabrage – Tutorial & History

Step 6

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This leaves a neat cut on the neck of the bottle and the champagne is ready to be enjoyed.

The Art of Sabrage – Tutorial & History

A Quick Tutorial:

Step 1

 

Take a chilled bottle of champagne, not ice cold but suitable for drinking. The ideal temperature is around 37°F or 3°C

The Art of Sabrage – Tutorial & History
The Art of Sabrage – Tutorial & History

No need to use too much force; even a Magnum succumbs with the correct technique.

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