The Melchisedech is one of the 16 different sizes of wine bottles found in Champagne. It is used exclusively in this wine region.
What is the capacity of a Melchisedech?
The capacity of a Melchisedech is 30 litres, the equivalent of 40 bottles of 75cl, or about 240 glasses of champagne.
Only bottled champagnes, Magnum and Jeroboam have been aged in their original bottle. The bottles of champagne with a capacity of more than 3 litres were first aged in the bottle and then decanted into the final bottle after preparation.
What does the name Melchisedech mean?
The name Melchisedech is of biblical origin. It means "king of justice" and refers to a priest mentioned in the book of Genesis.
How long have Melchisedechs been used?
The Melchisedech has been used since 2002.
Does the size of the champagne bottle influence the quality of the wine?
The size of the champagne bottle does indeed have an influence on the quality of the wine. The exchange of air between the cork and the wine is less in a large format than in a bottle, which limits its oxidisation. Due to their large capacity, large bottles also bring out the complexity and aromatic palette of champagne.
What is the best way to open a Melchisedech?
To open a Melchisedech properly, given that it is held in place, like all champagnes, by a wire cage, the bottle must be turned around the cork and not the other way round in order to preserve the bubbles and flavour that give a good champagne its charm. Then, gently remove the cork and serve in a glass tilted at 45°. If the cork is removed too quickly, foam will spurt out. This "stacking" phenomenon is due to an excessive concentration of bubbles. You can also saber the Melchisedek of champagne by breaking its neck with a knife or other sharp object. The shockwave, combined with the pressure of the wine in the bottle, ejects the cork and the wire.
What is the right temperature to serve a Melchisedech?
A Melchisedech should ideally be served at a temperature of 8-10°C. Because of its considerable capacity, this large format needs to be chilled for longer than a regular bottle and will be less subject to rapid temperature changes.
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