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CHAMPAGNE
Champagne represents the renowned sparkling wine, the appellation it is marketed under, and the French wine region it originates from. Its principal grape varieties include Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay.
Some of the world's most recognizable wine brands are Champagnes, with Dom Pérignon Brut currently topping our database as the most searched-for example.
The term "Champagne" was once commonly used to refer to sparkling wines from various regions worldwide, leading to significant legal disputes. It is now a legally controlled and restricted name. Refer to Champagne wine labels for more information.
Champagne's global recognition and success stem from various complex factors, with three primary reasons that are relatively certain. Firstly, its distinctive bubbles set it apart from less exhilarating wines. Secondly, the elevated prices associated with Champagne create an aura of exclusivity and uniqueness. Lastly, two centuries of effective marketing have targeted a receptive consumer base.
AVAILABILITY BY GRAPE/BLEND
Situated at a northern latitude of 49°N, the Champagne region is positioned at the northern border of the world's vineyard-growing regions, experiencing comparatively lower average temperatures compared to other French wine regions. The cool climate often limits grape ripening, leading to grapes with higher acidity even in temperate years. It was the discovery of secondary fermentation that enabled the production of a wine style capable of harnessing and even embracing this characteristic tartness.
Apart from the specific climatic conditions of each vintage and the unique attributes of the grape varieties, a third crucial element contributes to Champagne's distinct character: its landscape. The undulating terrain, from which Champagne derives its name ("open countryside" in translation), gently rolls over the white, calcareous soils of the Paris Basin.
This renowned chalk distinguishes itself from the limestone soils found in other French wine regions, boasting a finer texture and higher porosity. Its porous structure allows the vine roots to readily absorb its mineral content while facilitating exceptional drainage, preventing the perils of waterlogging. Moreover, this permeability enables the vines to access water sources deep below the surface, promoting robust root development and ensuring a continuous water supply.
Despite the overall consistency of the terroir, there exist variations in soil composition and climate that render different areas more suitable for the cultivation of the three primary grape varieties. The aptly named Côte des Blancs, especially the Côte de Sezanne, stands as the prime location for the finest Chardonnay vineyards, while the Montagne de Reims and the Vallee de la Marne offer ideal conditions for the cultivation of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.
Besides the Champagne appellation, the region has two appellations for still wines: Rosé de Riceys and Coteaux Champenois.
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