Double Bay has officially claimed the title of Australia’s top champagne consumer during the Christmas season, with Dan Murphy’s reporting record-breaking sales in the harbourside suburb.
A Festive Favourite in Double Bay
Champagne has long been a staple in Double Bay’s festive celebrations, and last Christmas was no exception. According to Dan Murphy’s, the Double Bay store outperformed every other location in the country in champagne sales during the holiday period. With a mix of luxury French labels and premium Australian sparkling wines flying off the shelves, it’s clear the locals know how to celebrate in style.
Top Champagne Picks in Double Bay
Two standout champagnes dominated the festive tables in Double Bay:
- Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial ($54.90): Known for its refined elegance and smooth finish, this classic label remains a crowd favourite.
- Veuve Clicquot NV ($64.99): With its bold and distinctive flavour, this iconic champagne continues to be a top choice for celebrations.
These premium champagnes reflect Double Bay’s preference for quality and tradition during the festive season.
Sparkling Success: Local Favourites
While champagne reigned supreme, Australian sparkling wines also held their ground. Double Bay shoppers showed strong support for two sparkling labels:
- Chandon Brut NV ($24.99): Crisp and refreshing, this remains a go-to sparkling option.
- Jansz Premium Cuvee ($24.99): Known for its balance and finesse, this Tasmanian sparkling wine continues to impress.
These selections highlight a trend where locals are embracing both international luxury and high-quality local alternatives.
Shifting Tastes and Festive Trends
Dan Murphy’s noted that while champagne remains the drink of choice for celebrations, premium Australian sparkling wines have been gaining traction. With rising champagne prices and the growing reputation of local sparkling wines, many customers are finding value and quality in homegrown options.
Ed Carr, chief winemaker at Tasmania’s House of Arras, highlighted the decades-long effort to elevate Australian sparkling wine standards. Mr Carr said that over time, Australian sparkling wine producers have fine-tuned their techniques, creating wines with complex aged profiles, including notes of mushroom, toast, and brioche. These efforts have resulted in sparkling wines that can confidently stand alongside renowned French varieties.
Merchandise Manager, George Radman has pointed to a shift in consumer behaviour. Rising champagne prices and a weaker Australian dollar have encouraged more people to explore mid-tier sparkling wines, with many willing to spend a little extra for quality.
Looking Ahead: More Bubbles, More Celebrations
As champagne prices continue to climb globally, Double Bay’s appetite for sparkling celebrations isn’t likely to wane. Whether it’s French champagne or local sparkling wine, one thing is clear—Double Bay will continue to set the benchmark for festive celebrations.
Published 4-Jan-2025