Champagne enthusiasts have descended upon Sydney this weekend for Moët & Chandon’s Effervescence. The three-day phenomenon promises to overflow (‘scuse the pun) with sparkling lights and equally sparkling wine, which will be served up in a purpose-built structure that took 18 days to build at the iconic Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.

Picture a 600m2 space with golden arches in which guests enter through a sparkling tunnel of lights and Champagne bubbles. They’ll then make their way through the cellars of Moët (complete with golden Champagne bubble – the ‘essence of Effervescence’), before travelling up a golden staircase to take in the views of neighbouring Sydney Harbour. 

Sydney’s Effervescence is the first of 20 events to be held globally in cities such as London, Paris, New York, Tokyo, Milan and Madrid. Open to the public, the next two days will see the ticketed Champagne Festival pop 1,800 champagne corks, pour 6,000 glasses of Champagne and serve 10,000 canapés.

To commemorate its launch, last night Moët & Chandon hosted a special Effervescence party where DJ Calvin Harris took time off from his world tour to play a private performance for the 300 guests who attended. The guest list ranged from Justin Hemmes to Julie Bishop, and also featured former Victoria’s Secret model Victoria Lee and The Sapphire Project ambassador Ian Thorpe, who led the ‘Toast for a Cause’, supporting The Sapphire Project and the critically underfunded area of marine conservation.

Régis Dupuis, managing director for Moët Hennessy Australia & New Zealand says, “We’re proud to be one of the anointed cities around the world playing host to Moët & Chandon’s celebration of Effervescence. For Moët & Chandon, the end of the year marks a moment of magic and togetherness, and we’re delighted to lead the world’s celebration with this incredible event on Sydney Harbour.”

Update:

We hate to burst your bubble, but before you start laying out your glad rags and pulling on your drinking boots, tickets are now sold out. But take heart – there’s always next year!

Related links:

Break out the Champagne! Effervescence by Moët & Chandon returns to Sydney

PSA: Moët & Chandon have launched the ultimate birthday gift