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Champagne: a journey through French elegance and tradition

Champagne is a prestigious sparkling wine known as a symbol of elegance and quality throughout the world. Originating in the French region of the same name, Champagne has gained global popularity thanks to its distinctive character and its association with celebrations and special moments.

A history of innovation

The history of Champagne dates back to the 17th century, when Benedictine monks in the Champagne region of France began experimenting with secondary fermentation to obtain a sparkling wine. Soon, French nobility adopted Champagne as an official drink to celebrate special occasions, contributing to its reputation as a 'luxury wine'.

The traditions associated with the production of this wine are deeply rooted in French culture, with winemaking techniques handed down from generation to generation. The practice of remuage for example, which consists of manually rotating the bottles to allow sediment to settle in the neck of the wine before disgorgement, has been perfected over the centuries.

How Champagne is produced

Champagne wine is produced using the traditional method, also known as the Champenoise or classic method. After primary fermentation of the base wine, a mixture of sugar and yeast is added to the bottle before corking. During secondary fermentation, the yeast consumes the sugar, producing carbon dioxide and alcohol, which remain trapped in the bottle, creating the characteristic bubbles of Champagne. After maturing on the yeasts, the bottles undergo the remuage and disgorgement process before being definitively corked for sale and consumption.

Today, this sparkling white wine continues to be produced only in France but its popularity has spread throughout the world, so much so that it has become one of the best known and most internationally appreciated alcoholic beverages.

Characteristics of Champagne

Champagne is widely celebrated for its rich and engaging sensory profile, which derives from a combination of unique factors in the production process and the grape varieties used.

The aromatic characteristics of Champagne are extremely diverse and can vary from bottle to bottle, even within the same type category; this variety of aromas is often attributed to the complexity of its fermentation and ageing process

During secondary fermentation in the bottle, the yeast consumes the residual sugars, producing complex aromas and flavours. Fruity notes are common in younger Champagnes, with aromas ranging from fresh fruits such as green apple and citrus to more mature fruits such as peach and pineapple. These fruity aromas may be more evident in Champagne Blanc de Blancs, which are mainly made from Chardonnay grapes.

Floral notes are another common characteristic of Champagnes, with aromas that can evoke white flowers such as acacia blossom, jasmine and apple blossom. These aromas can be more pronounced in younger, fresher Champagnes.

Notes of toasted nuts are often present in more mature and aged Champagnes, developing during the ageing process on the yeast. These aromas can include nuts, toasted almonds and toasted bread, adding complexity and depth to the overall sensory profile.

Finally, yeast notes are a distinctive characteristic of Champagnes made with the traditional method. These aromas can be described as biscuit, freshly baked bread or bread crust, and are the result of secondary fermentation in the bottle and contact with autolysed yeasts during the ageing process.

The grape varieties used in the production of Champagne further contribute to its aromatic diversity. Chardonnay brings freshness, elegance and fruity notes, Pinot Noir adds structure, body and red fruit notes, while Pinot Meunier contributes roundness and smoothness to the wine.

How much does a Champagne cost?

The price of a Champagne can vary widely depending on several factors, including the producer, type, vintage and the overall quality of the wine. At the low end, often around EUR 20-30 retail, we find bottles generally produced by large wineries in high volumes and using efficient production techniques to keep costs down. High-end Champagne bottles, produced by prestigious houses or small artisanal producers, on the other hand, easily exceed €100 per bottle and more. These are characterised by attention to detail, rigorous grape selection and a production process that can take years to complete. Finally, there are even more exclusive Champagnes, produced in extremely limited quantities, using particularly refined techniques and grapes from exceptional vineyards. They are often reserved for extraordinary celebrations or collectors, and their prices can reach several hundred or even thousands of euros per bottle.

The best pairings

Gastronomic pairings with Champagne range from seafood such as oysters and prawns to light appetisers such as bruschetta and salads. Its fresh and lively character goes well with fish dishes such as sushi and smoked salmon, while its effervescent bubbles add a touch of elegance to chicken dishes and light side dishes.

Producers and Labels on xtraWine

Prominent Champagne producers include legendary names such as Moët & Chandon and Ruinart, each with unique histories and traditions. On xtraWine you can explore a wide selection of Champagnes online from different wineries and areas of France, including Bruno Paillard and Pol Roger.

The different types

The different types of Champagne can be divided according to the grape varieties used, the method of production and other distinctive characteristics. Some of the main classifications are:

1. GrandCru: Champagne Grand Cru is of the highest quality, has a refined structure and lively acidity, with a perfect balance between freshness and complexity.
2. Premiere Cru: this Champagne is produced with grapes from vineyards classified as Premier Cru, positioned just below the Grand Cru in terms of quality. It is appreciated by Champagne connoisseurs for its excellence and balanced structure.
3. Blanc de Blancs: This Champagne is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. It is distinguished by its freshness, elegance and notes of citrus and white fruit.
4. Blanc de Noirs: made mainly from Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier grapes, this white Champagne often shows depth and complexity, with aromas of red fruits and spices.
5. Vintage: also known as'Vintage', this wine is produced using grapes from a single vintage. It is considered to be of high quality and can express the unique characteristics of that particular vintage year.

How to choose the right one?

Choosing Champagne requires attention to detail and a pinch of savoir-faire. First of all, consider the occasion: for formal celebrations, opt for a Blanc de Blancs or a Blanc de Noirs. For a more informal occasion, a Brut or Extra Brut Champagne is ideal. Evaluate your personal taste as well: if you prefer drier wines, go for Extra Brut or Brut, while if you like sweet, go for a Demi-Sec or Doux.