Champagne
CHAMPAGNE THE WORLD’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS SPARKLING WINE
Champagne is the most celebrated sparkling wine in the world, synonymous with luxury. Produced exclusively in the Champagne region of France, it is made using the traditional method, which involves secondary fermentation in the bottle to create its signature fine bubbles and complex flavours. With a history dating back centuries, Champagne remains the benchmark for sparkling wines globally.
The region’s cool climate and chalk-rich soils play a crucial role in Champagne’s distinctive character. The chalk not only provides excellent drainage but also retains heat, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and develop the acidity essential for high-quality sparkling wine. The climate, marked by moderate temperatures and long growing seasons, ensures a balance of freshness and complexity in the wines.
Champagne is typically a blend of three grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Chardonnay brings elegance and citrus-driven freshness, Pinot Noir contributes structure and red fruit notes, while Pinot Meunier adds roundness and approachability. Some producers also craft Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay) or Blanc de Noirs (made solely from black grapes), offering diverse styles within the category.
Aging is a key factor in Champagne’s refinement. Non-vintage Champagne must be aged for a minimum of 15 months, while vintage Champagne requires at least three years on the lees, developing greater depth, autolytic complexity, and a fine mousse. Prestige cuvées, the top-tier expressions, often undergo extended aging, yielding some of the world’s most sought-after wines.
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