Champagne Might Get You Drunk Faster
My goal in drinking wine has never been to get drunk (well, maybe once). But I do love that giddy lift from the first few sips of Champagne. Does Champagne get you drunk faster? Researchers have studied how sparkling wine affects the bloodstream, and the results are intriguing.
It turns out there’s some science behind that giddy feeling. Researchers have found that Champagne’s bubbles may help alcohol enter the bloodstream faster than the same wine without carbonation. In one study, participants absorbed alcohol more quickly after drinking bubbly Champagne than after drinking the same wine with its bubbles removed. A separate study found a similar effect when vodka was mixed with carbonated water, although the effect varied from person to person.
Of course, bubbles aren’t the only factor that affects how quickly alcohol goes to your head. Whether you’ve eaten matters, too. Alcohol generally enters the bloodstream faster on an empty stomach, so that first glass might hit harder than you expect.
So, yes, that celebratory glass of bubbles might go to your head a little faster than you expect. Of course, wine appreciation isn’t a race to get tipsy. I drink Champagne for the pleasure of it, from its lively sparkle to its complex flavors. But on a festive occasion? I’ll admit that a little giddy feeling can be part of the fun. Just remember that the effects of alcohol can sneak up on you, so sip slowly and enjoy the evening.
Champagne recommendations
In case you’re curious to explore Champagne’s bubbly charms, here are a few of my favorite rosé Champagnes. I chose rosé because I love the way its color adds to the sense of occasion. Depending on the wine, rosé Champagne can range from the palest baby pink to deep, glowing salmon, with shades that look almost like precious jewels in a glass.
I also love that rosé Champagne can offer a more robust flavor than many brut-style Champagnes. It still has the freshness and lively acidity that appeal to white wine drinkers, but its berry notes and extra depth can make it interesting to someone who usually reaches for red. It’s a beautiful middle ground, and a festive one.
J.M Gobillard et Fils NV Brut Rose
Salmon pink with a subtle berry flavor, this wine is fresh and lemon zesty with a saline note that makes the mouth water for more.
Champagne Henriot NV Brut Rose
A super sophisticated wine—the sort of thing you picture women in furs sipping on a cruise ship during the Roaring Twenties. Creamy on the palate, it offers a hint of aphrodisiac spice.
G.H. Mumm NV Brut Rose
Crisp and light bodied, this is the sort of wine that is perfect any time of day. I love its almost biting citrus acidity and notes of berry and rose petal.
Gosset MV Grand Rose
Offering what I would call a feminine rendition of Brut Rose, this wine offers pretty, delicate aromas, a fine stream of minuscule bubbles and a vanilla custard note that carries it through from dinner to dessert.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It should not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here are not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional. More information
Amy is considered a leading authority on aphrodisiacs. Her work in aphrodisiacs is quoted in publications including National Geographic, The New York Times, Epicurious, Wine Enthusiast, Health and Playboy magazines. She speaks internationally on aphrodisiac foods and has brought her knowledge of aphrodisiac history and science to national television shows including The Today Show and CBS Early Show. She is a frequent guest on relationship and lifestyle radio and podcast shows and has been interviewed by BBC and NPR radio, Cosmopolitan radio and popular podcasts including My Dad Wrote a Porno.
Amy is also a freelance food, wine and health researcher and writer as well as a wine competition judge. Her work has appeared in publications ranging from Variety to The Daily Meal. She is an MSN content provider. And she is also a former wine editor for Gayot.com and wine & spirits editor of Las Vegas magazine.
Fun fact: Amy was the creator of the first ever comprehensive food and wine apps, Amy Reiley's Pocket Gourmet and Amy Reiley's Pocket Vineyard for Palm.
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