Champagne Day: Iconic British Dishes to Pair with Champagne

Each year, the fourth Friday of October marks Champagne Day; with this year taking place on Friday, October 25. The UK has always had a special connection with Champagne, and it remains the second largest export market, in both volume and value.

To celebrate the occasion, as well as the long-standing heritage Great Britain holds with Champagne, The Champagne Bureau UK* has paired five classic British dishes, with a suggested Champagne style, for you to enjoy at home.

Scones with Strawberry Jam and Clotted Cream with Rosé Champagne

The afternoon tea essential, a fresh scone lathered with strawberry jam and clotted cream, is the perfect companion for the versatile style that is Rosé Champagne. They embody British tea culture’s refined elegance and are a staple at tea rooms and gatherings across the UK. When paired with Rosé Champagne, the vibrant wild berry aromas complement the sweetness of the strawberry jam, while the refreshing bubbles cut through the richness of the cream. The combination is also beautifully aesthetic.

Eton Mess with Sec or Demi-Sec Champagne

A classic British dessert originating from Eton College, Eton Mess has become a beloved symbol of summer. Made from a simple yet delightful mix of crushed meringue, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries, it is the perfect sweet treat for garden parties and celebrations. When paired with a sweeter Champagne such as a Sec or Demi-Sec, the bubbly’s rich fruity notes perfectly balance the dessert’s creaminess and sweetness. A Demi-Sec adds luscious notes of ripe stone fruits, making each spoonful of Eton Mess even more indulgent.

Sunday Roast with Blanc de Noirs Champagne

The Sunday roast is a cornerstone of British family life, whether it is beef, lamb, or pork, the roast is served with crispy roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and vegetables, creating a hearty and satisfying dish that has been cherished for centuries. To match the complexity and richness of the meal, a Blanc de Noirs, made entirely from black grape varieties, offers the perfect pairing. The powerful body and structure of a Blanc de Noirs balance the savoury, robust flavours of roasted meats, while the fruity and toasty notes complement the richness of the Yorkshire pudding and potatoes.

Fish & Chips with Blanc de Blancs Champagne

With its golden-battered fish and chips served with malt vinegar or tartar sauce, this dish is enjoyed from seaside towns to high-end restaurants. The simple yet satisfying flavours of fish and chips have made it one of Britain’s most iconic dishes. Elevate the quintessential British dish with a Blanc de Blancs Champagne, made exclusively from white grapes, this match is both refreshing and elegant. The Champagne’s vibrant citrus notes and crispiness cut through the crunchy batter, cleansing the palate, and enhancing the delicate flavours of the fish.

Shepherd’s Pie with Brut Champagne

For a hearty Shepherd’s Pie, filled with savoury minced lamb and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, a Brut Champagne is a very good pairing. Dry and structured, a Brut cut through the richness of the meat and mash, providing a refreshing contrast to the dish’s depth of flavour. Its subtle citrus and brioche notes enhance the rustic heartiness of the pie without overwhelming it, offering a beautifully balanced pairing.

 

*The Champagne Bureau UK is the trade association of Comité Champagne in the UK, representing houses and growers in Champagne.

Photo credit: Coworth Park