I WAS RECENTLY watching a video on how to saber a bottle of Champagne—that is, sweep a blade along the neck to remove the top with a flourish. (Such videos are surprisingly numerous.) I learned that sabering (aka sabrage) dates back to Napoleon’s era and that a kitchen knife can serve as a saber if you happen to be without a sword. I also learned that sabering is extremely dangerous, and you should never saber without wearing glasses or while standing indoors. So why is this risky ritual still relevant now?
Sabering a Champagne…
