In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, we’re unveiling the mystery behind KORBEL’s green bottles.

Oxidation of wine is caused by chemical reactions due to exposure to oxygen. Oxidation can occur quickly, such as in a glass of wine left out overnight, or slowly – for example, a properly sealed bottle of champagne will succumb to oxidation after a few years. In most white wines and champagnes, oxidation causes a loss of fruit flavor, an increase in a nutty or mushroomy taste and a general dullness.

Other factors, such as light and temperature, can affect the rate of oxidation. High temperatures can ruin a bottle of wine within a few hours. Intense light, especially ultraviolet (UV) light, will also speed up oxidation and cause the flavor to change. This condition is called “lightstruck.” KORBEL uses dark-green glass for our most popular champagnes because it’s very effective at blocking UV light. The process ensures that your bottle will have a long life and still retain its bright fruit and crisp taste.

Cheers to green bottles and these delicious cocktails for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

KORBEL Sparkling Shamrock

1 oz. Finlandia® tangerine-flavored vodka
1 splash blue curaçao
2 oz. orange juice
4 oz. KORBEL® Brut
Lime wedge, for garnish

Pour vodka, blue curaçao and orange juice into a shaker with ice. Shake, and strain into a wine glass. Top with KORBEL. Garnish with a lime wedge.