Sabring Champagne: Adventure #1 of 40

As part of my journey to complete 40 adventures in one year to celebrate turning 40, I’ll be saying YES to new experiences and unforgettable moments with friends and loved ones. Some adventures have been planned, this one came as a complete surprise. Thanks to one of my incredible friends, I found myself learning to sabre a bottle of champagne at Township 7 Vineyards & Winery in Langley, BC.

A Day of Surprises

The day began with an air of mystery. My friend had given me no clues about what was in store, only that I should dress warmly - but cute, and be ready for adventure. We set off in the afternoon, and as we drove through the picturesque Fraser Valley, I speculated wildly about our destination. It wasn’t until we pulled up to Township 7 Vineyards & Winery that I got my first glimpse of what was to come.

The Art of Sabrage

After a warm welcome from the winery staff, my friend revealed the first big surprise: I would be learning the art of sabrage. For those unfamiliar, sabrage is the dramatic technique of opening a champagne bottle with a sabre—a skill that dates back to the Napoleonic era. It’s a blend of precision, confidence, and a touch of flair.

My friend had arranged for me to take part in “Sabre & Sip – The Art of Sabrage,” a unique experience at Township 7 Vineyards & Winery. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with our first glass of sparkling wine and guided through an entire tasting flight of four of their seven stars sparkling wines. Our host shared insights into the rich history of Township 7, the evolution of sparkling wine, and the thrilling technique of sabrage. The highlight of the visit was the opportunity to perform the sabre technique myself—a hands-on experience I’ll never forget.

With a chilled bottle of sparkling wine in hand, our host walked us through the history and technique. The key, she explained, is to find the seam of the bottle and strike the lip with a swift, controlled motion. After signing a waiver - we're playing with sabres after all, we headed outside for the big event. It took a few deep breaths and some nervous laughter, but then I raised the sabre, aimed, and — nothing! I didn't strike hard enough! Once finding the seam again, I raised the sabre again and this time — pop! The cork and neck of the bottle flew cleanly off, leaving the bubbly to flow freely. The people who had gathered to watch, and my friends, cheered, and I felt an exhilarating mix of triumph and sheer delight.

A Toast to Friendship

With our freshly sabered champagne in hand, we toasted to friendship, adventure, and the magic of unexpected experiences. The rest of the afternoon unfolded in a blissful haze of wine tastings and vineyard hopping - visiting Backyards Vineyards and Chaberton Estate Winery. Each sip seemed to deepen the sense of celebration, and I couldn’t help but marvel at my friend's thoughtfulness in crafting such a unique experience.

The Grand Finale

Just when I thought the day couldn’t get any better, my friend had one final surprise up her sleeve. Our other friend came to join us from our second vineyard stop and drove us back home. When we arrived, at what I thought was just a pit stop, I was met with a chorus of “Happy Birthday!”—a surprise party filled with friends and my chosen family. The room was brimming with love, laughter, and, of course, more wine.

A Birthday for the Books

Learning to sabre champagne was more than just a thrilling skill to acquire—it was a reminder of the joy that comes from embracing the unexpected. My friend's carefully curated day of surprises made this birthday truly unforgettable, proving that the best gifts aren’t always wrapped in paper and bows. Sometimes, they come in the form of experiences that leave you with stories to tell and memories to cherish forever.

So, if you ever get the chance to sabre a bottle of champagne, take it. And if you have a friend like I do, hold onto them tightly—they’re the ones who make life’s celebrations truly sparkle.

This adventure was #1 on my list of 40. I can’t wait to see what the next one brings!