Before exploring the fantastic world of Champagne be sure to familiarize yourself with a few important facts before you go. Maybe you’re already familiar with everything about these, but then perhaps you’ll discover something fresh!
1. Champagne Is A Wine
It’s like saying the obvious, however often Champagne is considered to be a distinct entity from still wines. In fact Champagne is made of fermented grapes that are cultivated using the same methods as other wines.
But, Champagne is exceptional in the sense that it has to follow distinct processes to produce its sparkling bubbles. Specific guidelines set out by the appellation, together with a highly secure, officially designated designations of origin ensure that the Champagne’s authenticity is secure from corner-cutting.
2. It’s only made in Champagne, France
Most people are aware that Champagne originates from France. But, over the years, Champagne had a difficult time competing with other sparkling wines that would make use of its name and reputation to promote their own.
Champagne is specifically the same region name in the north-eastern region of France 100 kilometers (62 miles) east of Paris. The wine-producing region is a patchwork that extends across it and into neighboring regions as well.
In order to distinguish both, the champagne drink uses the masculine form in the French language (le Champagne) where-as the region itself is feminine (la Champagne).
The mentioned Appellation guarantees that a sparkling wine is only known as Champagne only if it is produced within the strict 35,000 hectare (84,000 acres) area. In addition the Interprofessional Committee of Champagne Wine or CIVC enforces this in the United States and around the world.
Learn more about the region along with its climate and geography , with our comprehensive Champagne geographical guide.
3. It’s made with both black and White Grapes
It is believed that the Champagne area has been producing white wine using wine grapes that are red since in the Middle Ages. It was first made during the peak of their fierce conflict with Burgundian neighbors. Burgundy reds were a rich hue, while Champagne’s attempts were typically weaker or pink.
As Dom Perignon came onto the scene in the 16th century and he, in turn developed these methods. In order to create the clear, white wines from grapes that were black they were crushed quickly and gently to stop the skins from becoming macerated with the juice.
In the end Champagne is made from three grapes. The most well-known black variety is Pinot Noir, which is also utilized in Burgundy. But, they also utilize another grape that is black, Pinot Meunier, as well as white grapes, Chardonnay. Learn more about these grapes with our guide to Champagne.
4. It’s blended (Most Of the All The)
Outside of France It’s normal for the grape to be listed on labels before or in lieu from the specific region. This is particularly prevalent for New World wines. While some French wines have been adapted to this trend but this region has always been first, as it’s the most reliable indication of a wine’s character.
Sometimes, however, the grape isn’t mentioned since it is a blend of multiple varieties. For instance in Bordeaux it is possible to blend Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc amongst others.
In the same way to the previous point, several Champagnes mix their wine grapes, as described in the previous section to create unique flavors. But, unlike another wine also blend the seasons.
A blend of Champagne could include up to 30 or 50 different harvests from various villages, vintages, and grapes. This is done in order to guarantee that every time you pour that house’s Champagne you will definitely taste exactly the identical.
There are however some exceptions. For example There are also Vintage Champagnes or blends, which employ one color of grape. Go here to learn more about the various types of Champagne!
5. Champagne is fermented twice.
Contrary to Prosecco and a few Cavas Champagne undergoes intense periods of fermentation and maturation. While Prosecco doesn’t leave the autoclave made of stainless steel that is pressurised vat until it is bottled for sale, Champagne spends most of its time in bottles.
Grapes ferment inside casks or vats immediately following the press, until no sugar remains. The resting wine then gets put into a bottle using a mixture of sugar and yeast, that is then sealed with an alcohol cap. As it ages within the bottle yeast and sugar chemically interact and release gas. This produces the bubbling.
Champagnes age for around 12 months or more like this, but they undergo additional procedures to ensure that they age correctly. But, there are some that will be stored for longer before they can be seen in the sunlight. Learn all you can about the process of making Champagne is made by following our simple guide.
6. It’s drinkable straight And Enjoy It
Some wines will remain in bottle for decades after having been bottle-aged. They can sit within the cellars of collectors and traders for many years before they are opened. Through this period they will accumulate the complexity and value.
But in Champagne they approach it in a different way. Instead, Champagne is kept in the cellar of the home which is sealed by caps on bottles and then aged until it is perfect. When they are appropriate to sell their wine. At that point the cap is removed and the wine is corked.
While some drinkers prefer to age their Champagnes upon corking, you don’t need to. If you own one, why put it off and miss out on the enjoyment? Make sure to serve the Champagne correctly and at the proper temperature!
7. It Can Be Diet-Friendly
The general rule is that drinking fine alcoholic drinks can be a problem while eating a strict diet. So, why isn’t it great to know that certain Champagnes have no sugar? In addition unlike Diet Coke, it’s 100 percent natural and slightly more refined!
8. It was discovered by accident
Contrary to two widely-held views, sparkling wine wasn’t created in the hands of Benedictine Monk Dom Perignon, nor English scientist Christopher Merret. Both helped shape Champagne into the wine it is the way it is today.
In actual fact bubbly wine’s phenomenon was first discovered through accident in the middle age in Saint Hilaire Abbey. There were other Benedictine monks living near Carcassone began to realize that the wine that was bottled after being fermented in oak casks could produce bubbles.
9. The British Love Champagne
In fact it was reported that the French exported record breaking 34 million bottles of champagne to UK in 2015. Apart from the French who purchased 162 million bottles of their own The British consume more Champagne than any other nation.
In addition, some of the most sought-after Champagne houses also have an Royal Warrant granted by the British Royal Family. Krug, Bollinger and Moet & Chandon are among the most well-known. But the honor also goes to GH Mumm, Laurent-Perrier, Pol Roger, Veuve Clicquot and Lanson.
10. It’s not always expensive
The big houses could dominate the market and export largest amount of their products for consumption overseas. However, within the 332 official Champagne villages there are 300 main Champagne houses, as well as 15,800 producers .
The sheer number suggests that there are a lot of unknown and obscure Champagnes there, waiting for their chance to shine. Additionally, with their labels not yet having achieved popularity, they could be extremely affordable! For instance, top bottles can be purchased at least $15 EUR (18 dollars) while vintage Champagnes are available for as low as $20 EUR (24 dollars).
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