Champagne
Champagne is an iconic sparkling wine known worldwide for its elegance and exclusivity. Throughout history, it has been appreciated and enjoyed by kings, tsars and prominent personalities, including actors, actresses and elite athletes. This unique wine is produced exclusively in the French region of Champagne. Each bottle is the result of a meticulous and artisanal process that guarantees its exceptional quality.
It is essential to highlight that only wines produced in the Champagne region may bear the prestigious name Champagne. If produced in any other area, it is simply called sparkling wine. This distinction is due to the particular geographical and climatic characteristics of the Champagne region, which significantly influence the quality of the grapes and, consequently, the excellence of the Champagnes produced in this area.
The Champagne region is made up of 321 municipalities or “Crus”, which are classified according to the quality of the soils and climate. This hierarchy is extremely important, as it directly influences the quality of the grapes and, therefore, the excellence of the Champagnes produced. Among the most prestigious classifications are Champagne Grand Cru, Champagne Premier Cru and Champagne Cru.
Each of these categories represents different levels of excellence and is based on the meticulous selection of vineyards and production techniques. Grand Cru Champagnes are the most prestigious, followed by Premier Cru Champagnes, which also offer exceptional quality. Cru Champagnes are renowned for their refinement and their ability to express the personality and character of the region.
Champagne, known as a sparkling wine, goes beyond being simply a drink; it is a symbol of elegance and sophistication with centuries of tradition. It is produced exclusively in the Champagne region of France. Our shop offers a wide range of Champagnes to discover the unique charm of this prestigious drink. You will find varieties to suit your tastes and allow you to celebrate special moments in style. Explore our selection and choose the perfect Champagne for your next special occasion.
Champagne categories according to sugar content:
Champagne is distinguished by its elegance and sophistication, but also by its diversity of styles according to its sugar content. Depending on the amount of sugar added during production, different types of Champagne can be found to satisfy a variety of tastes and preferences. From the driest Brut styles to the sweetest, Champagne offers a range of options for all lovers of this iconic drink.
Extra Brut Champagne or Champagne Brut Nature is known as the driest of all, as it contains less than 6 grams of sugar per litre. It is perfect for those who enjoy crisp and fresh flavours without additional sweetness. This Champagne is characterised by its refreshing profile and its ability to highlight the nuances of the grape and the Champagne region.
Brut Champagne is also characterised by its dryness, but allows a slight touch of sweetness with less than 15 grams of sugar per litre. It is one of the most popular and versatile styles, ideal for different occasions. This Champagne balances freshness and acidity with subtle fruit notes, making it a popular choice both for aperitifs and more substantial meals.
If you prefer a Champagne with a little more sweetness, Extra Dry Champagne is an excellent option. It contains between 12 and 20 grams of sugar per litre, giving it additional subtlety and smoothness. This style is well suited to those who enjoy a slightly sweeter experience without it becoming overwhelming, making it a versatile and enjoyable choice for a variety of occasions and dishes.
Sec Champagne, on the other hand, has a higher level of sweetness, ranging between 17 and 35 grams of sugar per litre. This type of Champagne is appreciated for its balance between acidity and sweetness, offering a unique sensory experience. With its slightly sweeter flavour, it is an excellent choice for those looking for a Champagne that stands out for its harmony and complexity of flavours.
For those who enjoy sweeter flavours, Demi Sec Champagne is an excellent choice. With a sugar content between 33 and 50 grams per litre, this style is perfect for pairing with desserts or for those who prefer a Champagne with greater intensity of flavour. Demi Sec Champagne offers an indulgent tasting experience and is an excellent choice for celebrating special moments with a sweet touch.
Finally, Doux or Sweet Champagne is the sweetest of all, with more than 50 grams of sugar per litre. This type of Champagne is perfect for those who appreciate sweet and smooth flavours and is an excellent option for pairing with more intense desserts.
How Champagne is made:
Champagne is an iconic and sophisticated drink obtained through a unique and meticulous production process. The method used to produce Champagne is known as the Champagne method or traditional method, which guarantees the quality and characteristic effervescence of this drink.
The production of Champagne begins with the selection of three grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Each of these grapes contributes distinctive characteristics to the final Champagne. Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier provide structure and body, while Chardonnay contributes elegance and freshness.
Once the grapes are harvested, an initial fermentation takes place to obtain a base wine. This base wine is then skilfully blended by the winemakers, who select different wines from different vintages to achieve the desired flavour profile. In exceptional years, when the harvest is of outstanding quality, Champagnes made from grapes from a single vintage may be produced, known as vintage Champagne.
After blending, the base wine is bottled together with a small amount of yeast and sugar, which initiates the second fermentation in the bottle. During this stage, the yeast consumes the sugar and produces carbon dioxide, generating the characteristic bubbles of Champagne. This bottle fermentation process takes place in underground cellars where the bottles rest for a specific period of time, known as ageing, which can range from several months to several years. During this time, the Champagne gains complexity and develops its unique aromas and flavours.
At Vinopremier, we offer a wide selection of high-quality Champagnes, carefully selected to provide you with an exceptional experience. Our sommeliers are available to advise you and help you find the perfect Champagne for any occasion. Explore our website and discover the beauty and excellence of Champagne.