Guh, champagne. That stuff is bleh. I had it when I was the maid of honor at my aunt/godmother's wedding. Not the best tasting stuff. I gave it to my cousin. He drank it for me.
For some reason, my computer is being a skuttlefuck, and wouldn't let me comment your story, but yeah, the Iron Maiden story was awesome. And... I love you with the awesomeness of your profile.