Lipstick Lifestyle

The drink of choice for celebrating the good life, Champagne is a prerequisite during TIFF. Created in 1700, Champagne was chosen by the French kings as the gold standard of luxury and power. In 1866, French entertainer George Leybourne was hired by Champagne-maker Moet to promote its brand. A triumph of marketing, Leybourne’s efforts have cemented Champagne as the drink of choice as well as its elite status and celebratory personality. Made from chardonnay, pinot noir or pinot meunier grapes, Champagne is generally light in colour and should be served chilled (7C-9C or 43F-48F) in a tall flute glass to prevent the bubbles from escaping too quickly. So, how to choose? Cristal? Krug? Dom Perignon? Taittinger? Perrier-Jouet? Veuve Cliquot? Moet & Chandon? Most girls will answer “yes, please” to any of these offerings, but for those with a more discerning palette, choose sec, demi-sec or doux for a sweeter bubble. Those who want less sugar should select brut, extra brut or brut naturale.

At this year’s TIFF parties, Moet & Chandon will be the drink of choice for A-listers Matt Damon, Renee Zellwegger, Ed Harris and Jeremy Irons. Meanwhile, celebs at the Luxury Lounge in Lobby will indulge in Perrier-Jouet and guests attending VIP events at Hazel Boutique will be sipping Veuve Cliquot.

www.champagne.com