• Premium Champagne will mature and evolve for 15 to 20 years if stored properly, without vibration and at a constant 55 degrees F.

• Purchase Champagne en magnum, when possible, to reduce the incidence of oxidation and improve aging conditions.

• Contrary to legend, it is not beneficial to quarter-turn your wine (any wine, including Champagne). Lay the wine on its side in a proper cellar facility and leave it undisturbed until ready to drink.

• Purchase recently disgorged bottlings, which are offered in limited quantity. When a vintage is gone, it is gone forever.

• The 20th century’s finest vintages include: 1911, 1914, 1921, 1928, 1934, 1943, 1947, 1949, 1955, 1959, 1961, 1964, 1973, 1976, 1982, 1985, 1990 and 1996.

• Because the current release, 1996, is considered one of the finest, stock up at release prices.