The "sabrage", translated into Italian with sciabolata, is certainly the most spectacular way to open a bottle of sparkling wine, as anyone who has had the opportunity to witness this dramatic gesture will attest it is nothing less than a grand gesture. You can see it here, around minute 3.00 of this video, where it is masterfully performed by an expert sommelier.

The name derives from the word "saber". The origin of "sabrage" historically was a widespread tradition among the officers of the Napoleonic army who were accustomed to celebrating their victories by uncorking bottles of champagne with a decisive blow from the saber of their order, perhaps in the absence of more suitable instruments and, yes, with great appreciation also from the famous leader.

Obviously it is impossible to open a still wine with sciabolata, both because it lacks the internal pressure typical of sparkling wines such as Prosecco DOCG, and because the bottles do not have the mushroom cap typical of sparkling wines nor the "cercine", the ring relief placed on the neck of the bottle which acts as a “hold” to the saber blow. Any expert in the maneuver knows that the bottle must be very cold, because this promotes the net breakage of the glass, and that both the capsule and the steel cage that holds the cap must be removed in advance.

Even the "Brotherhood of the Golden Saber" (Confrérie du Saber d’Or) was founded in France, which boasts several hundred associates and which has taught tens of thousands of people around the world the technique. Sabrage is not recommended for beginners, but for those wishing to try their hand at operating in absolute safety, there is a "Sabrage Academy", which organizes short courses during which they teach the techniques for sabrage with propriety and elegance, in absolute safety. .

Born as a symbolic and just reward for the labors and the risks run in battle, the evocative ceremony over time has taken on a highly celebratory and auspicious meaning, suitable for any festive occasion, always exciting and surprising.