In 17th-century France, Dom Pierre Pérignon, a monk at the Abbey of Hautvillers, faced a challenge: the wine he made in Champagne developed bubbles during the winter, which were considered a flaw. But instead of eliminating the bubbles, he unknowingly created the world’s most famous sparkling wine. 

Legend has it, he tasted the fizzy wine and said, “I am tasting the stars!”—though the quote may be apocryphal, it captures the magic of his discovery.

Soon, winemakers embraced the bubbly wine, and it became a hit with European royalty. By the 18th century, champagne was a symbol of luxury, boosted by Madame de Pompadour, who claimed it was the only drink that kept women beautiful.

However, early champagne had its risks. Bottles often exploded from the pressure, causing chaos. It wasn’t until stronger glass and corks were developed that champagne could be safely bottled and enjoyed worldwide.