How the need for warships changed the world of Champagne

French Champagne bottles were birthed in coal-fired glass-making furnaces of England

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How the need for warships changed the world of Champagne

If you enjoy Champagne or sparkling wine you may not have thought about the heavy bottle containing the bubbly. But there is a story there.

Wood emerged as a precious commodity in the 1500s. The population of England and Wales soared, escalating the demand for wood. Wood was used to construct and heat buildings. It was used in glassmaking. It was vital to shipbuilding.

As demand for wood surged, shortages of wood imperiled Europe, especially England. In 1615, King James I—sponsor of the King James Bible—issued a proclamation prohibiting the widespread use of wood. His goal: conserve wood to keep his royal navy afloat.

Glass blowing demonstration (Tulane Public Relations photo)