Champagne makes any occasion feel special, but unlike other wines, bubbly does have a shelf life and can spoil even when unopened. The lifespan of a bottle depends on the particular variety, but a good step is to determine whether your champagne is vintage or not, which can help you estimate how long it will last in your cabinet.

Vintage champagnes are made from grapes harvested in a single year, while non-vintage blends are made from grapes that have been harvested over several years. Non-vintage blends are usually created by winemakers aiming for a specific taste, not to mention they’re more affordable, but these blends have a much shorter shelf life.

Vintage champagne can be stored for up to a decade, while non-vintage blends can only be stored for three to four years; the longer you wait, the more the champagne's taste will change. Store unopened bottles in a cool, dark location, laid horizontally so the cork doesn't dry out, and don't be stingy about enjoying your drink ASAP.