The Comité Champagne announces that aluminium foil on champagne bottles is now optional. Producers gain freedom, fostering innovation and sustainability in champagne production.
Producers gain freedom in bottle presentation
Champagne producers can now choose whether to cover the cork with the foil (la coiffe), long considered inseparable from champagne’s image. The Comité Champagne (CIVC) made the decision after studies showed that its absence does not affect consumer preference or market value (Sarah Neish, The Drinks Business, 28 August 2025).
“The absence of a coiffe (foil) does not change consumers’ preference for champagne,” said the Comité Champagne (Le Parisien, 26 August 2025).
Alternatives such as paper strips, staples, or string are possible while maintaining elegant bottle presentation. The muselet, the wire cage holding the cork, remains mandatory.
Sustainability and economy
Reducing foil use supports more sustainable production, as some foils contain plastic and account for 0.6% of greenhouse gas emissions in champagne production (The Drinks Business, 28 August 2025). English sparkling wine producers estimate significant savings by removing the foil without affecting quality.
Freedom of choice defended by producers
The Ça décoiffe collective, made up of winemakers from Aube and Marne, championed freedom of choice. Initially, the Champagne interprofessional body wanted the foil mandatory, arguing it was part of the “inseparable identity of champagne.”
“This is indisputably a breach of an old tradition, perhaps for a good cause” (Le Parisien, 26 August 2025).
Hygiene and safety: an open debate
Although the foil may act as a barrier against bacteria and mold, this remains an open question, leaving room for safe, innovative alternatives.
Champagne, with or without capsule
Whether with the classic aluminium foil or alternative methods, champagne retains its elegance, effervescence, and unmistakable character, delighting consumers and celebrating special moments. As F. Scott Fitzgerald said:
“Too much of anything is bad, but too much champagne is just right.”
It’s always good to have a few bottles at home for any occasion. Buy here!
