Each year, the fourth Friday of October marks Champagne Day; this year’s celebration takes place on Friday, October 25. This food and drinks guide looks at which foods can be enjoyed with a glass or two.
The UK has always had a special connection with Champagne, and it remains the second-largest export market in volume and value. To celebrate the occasion and the long-standing heritage Great Britain holds with Champagne, The Champagne Bureau UK* has paired five classic British dishes with a suggested Champagne style for you to enjoy at home.
Scones with Strawberry Jam and Clotted Cream with Rosé Champagne
The afternoon tea essential, a fresh scone slathered with strawberry jam and clotted cream, is the perfect companion for the versatile style that is Rosé Champagne. They embody British tea culture’s refined elegance and are a staple at tea rooms and gatherings across the UK.
When paired with Rosé Champagne, the vibrant wild berry aromas complement the sweetness of the strawberry jam, while the refreshing bubbles cut through the richness of the cream. The combination is also beautifully aesthetic.
Eton Mess with Sec or Demi-Sec Champagne
A classic British dessert originating from Eton College, Eton Mess has become a beloved symbol of summer. Made from a simple yet delightful mix of crushed meringue, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries, it is the perfect sweet treat for garden parties and celebrations.
When paired with a sweeter Champagne such as a Sec or Demi-Sec, the bubbly’s rich, fruity notes perfectly balance the dessert’s creaminess and sweetness. A Demi-Sec adds luscious notes of ripe stone fruits, making each spoonful of Eton Mess even more indulgent.
Sunday Roast with Blanc de Noirs Champagne
The Sunday roast is a cornerstone of British family life, whether beef, lamb, or pork. For centuries, the roast has been served with crispy roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and vegetables, creating a hearty and satisfying dish.
To match the complexity and richness of the meal, a Blanc de Noirs, made entirely from black grape varieties, offers the perfect pairing. Its powerful body and structure balance the savoury, robust flavours of roasted meats, while the fruity and toasty notes complement the richness of the Yorkshire pudding and potatoes.
Fish & Chips with Blanc de Blancs Champagne
With its golden-battered fish and chips served with malt vinegar or tartar sauce, this dish is enjoyed from seaside towns to high-end restaurants. The simple yet satisfying flavours of fish and chips have made it one of Britain’s most iconic dishes.
Elevate the quintessential British dish with a Blanc de Blancs Champagne, made exclusively from white grapes. This match is both refreshing and elegant. The Champagne’s vibrant citrus notes and crispiness cut through the crunchy batter, cleansing the palate and enhancing the delicate flavours of the fish.
Shepherd’s Pie with Brut Champagne
A Brut Champagne is a very good pairing for a hearty Shepherd’s Pie filled with savoury minced lamb and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Dry and structured, a Brut cut through the richness of the meat and mash, providing a refreshing contrast to the dish’s depth of flavour. Its subtle citrus and brioche notes enhance the rustic heartiness of the pie without overwhelming it, offering a beautifully balanced pairing.
Held on the fourth Friday in October every year, Champagne Day has become the universal event for Champagne lovers worldwide to celebrate the pinnacle of sparkling wine. From intimate gatherings to grand tastings, it is a day to savour and celebrate Champagne’s unique heritage, quality, and culture.
Whether you are a connoisseur or simply a fan of bubbles, Champagne Day is the perfect occasion to raise a glass to the pinnacle of sparkling wine.
*The Champagne Bureau UK is the trade association of Comité Champagne in the UK, representing houses and growers in Champagne.
Find out more at champagneday.champagne.fr.