Sparkling Wine from a Magnum Just Hits Different

When it comes to sparkling wine, size matters. If you have ever poured from a magnum of sparkling wine (the big guys that hold 1.5 liters, or twice the amount of a regular bottle), you may have noticed that it tastes a little different – maybe even better. But why is that? Some of it is science and some of it is art, so let’s explore why a magnum might just be the ultimate way to enjoy sparkling wine.

What IS a Magnum, Anyway?

A regular bottle of sparkling wine holds 750 ml and a magnum clocks in at 1.5 liters, or the equivalent of two standard bottles. For context: that’s 10 to 12 glasses of sparkling joy! If you’ve ever shown up to a party carrying a magnum, you know it brings instant smiles. And magnums aren’t as big as bottles go: some prestigious Champagne houses have large format bottles as big as 15 L, or twenty bottles, and they have fanciful, Biblical names like Methusalah, Balthazar, and Rehoboam. 

The Science of Bubbles

One of the reasons sparkling wine from a magnum often tastes better is due to the science of aging. Oxygen exposure is both a friend and an enemy: too much and your wine goes flat and lifeless; just the right amount and it develops more complex flavors.

Magnums hold a greater volume of wine but the same amount of air as a smaller bottle. The result is a wine that matures more slowly, keeping the bubbles fresh and vibrant, while still developing complex flavors. When drinking wine from a magnum you’ll notice the bubbles really dance in the mouth. These delicate bubbles create nuance and depth. Because of the lower air-to-wine ratio, the bubbles, or mousse, are smaller in size. 

Sparkling wine aged in a magnum has the luxury of time. Because of that slower oxygen exchange, magnum wine can develop deeper, richer flavors without losing its brightness. Magnums allow sparkling wine to hold onto floral, fruity notes and avoid oxidation, creating a sip that’s as fresh as it is flavorful.

The Wow Factor

Magnums aren’t just delicious—they’re impressive. When you arrive at a party with a magnum, you’re bringing the fun. Popping open a big bottle is festive, exciting, and just feels fancy.

AT MAWBY we have a rotating selection of our Method Champenoise wines available in magnum formats year round. These are excellent for parties and celebrations, but also can continue to age for 12-15 years. We often host events where you can taste magnum wines and even compare flavor profiles with a standard size bottle. Make sure you are on our mailing list to get all the details on upcoming MAWBY magnum events.  

So here’s to magnums – because sometimes, more really is more!