Everything you need to know about the Champagne region

Champagne is a wine region located in northeastern France, exclusively dedicated to the production of sparkling wines under the Champagne appellation. This uniqueness is based on a precise combination of terroirs, grape varieties, climate, and a strictly regulated winemaking method.

A designation with strict specifications

The Champagne appellation benefits from a highly regulated AOC. The production area is precisely delimited and the rules cover the authorized grape varieties, yields, vine training, harvesting and aging times.

Three grape varieties are predominantly used:

• Chardonnay , for its freshness and finesse

• Pinot Noir , for structure and power

• Pinot Meunier , for its suppleness and fruitiness

The grape harvest must be done manually in order to preserve the quality of the grapes.

The method of Champagne production

Champagne is made using the traditional method. After a first fermentation, the wines are blended and then bottled for a second fermentation, called prise de mousse , which allows the natural formation of bubbles.

The bottles then rest on their lees for a minimum of 15 months for non-vintage wines and 3 years for vintage wines . This phase contributes to the finesse of the bubbles and the aromatic development.

Champagne Styles

Champagnes are distinguished by their blend and production method:

• Blanc de blancs : made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes

• Blanc de noirs : made from black grape varieties

• Rosé Champagnes : obtained by blending or maceration

The dosage, corresponding to the amount of sugar added after disgorging, also defines the style: brut nature, extra-brut, brut, sec or demi-sec.

Wines and vintages

Non-vintage Champagnes are made from blends of several years and aim for consistency of style.
Vintage Champagnes come from a single harvest year and reflect the characteristics of the vintage more closely.

Some communes are classified as Premier Cru or Grand Cru , depending on the recognized quality of their terroirs.

Food and Champagne pairings

Champagne can accompany an entire meal.
Brut or extra-brut wines pair well with seafood, fish and soft cheeses.
More structured Champagnes are suitable for poultry or more elaborate dishes.
Rosé wines and wines with higher dosage are suitable for desserts or sweet and savory pairings.

Champagne estates to discover

This selection highlights independent estates and houses representative of the diversity of Champagne styles:

• Champagne Bourgeois-Diaz

• Champagne Françoise Bedel

• Gremillet Champagne

• Laherte Brothers

These producers allow you to discover different profiles of Champagne, from the most accessible to the most assertive, suitable for both discovery and regular tasting.