BUY CHAMPAGNE | WINES ONLINE SINGAPORE

The Origins and History of Champagne

Champagne’s history is as effervescent as the wine itself. The region’s winemaking tradition dates back to Roman times, but the sparkling wine we recognize today began to take shape in the 17th century. The most famous figure in the history of Champagne is Dom Pérignon, a Benedictine monk often (though incorrectly) credited with discovering the method of making sparkling wine. His contributions, however, were significant in refining the winemaking process, leading to higher quality wines.

The development of the Méthode Champenoise, or traditional method, was crucial to Champagne’s evolution. This process involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, which creates the wine’s characteristic bubbles. Over time, the Champagne region became known for this unique production method and the exceptional quality of its wines, leading to its designation as an Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) in 1936. This status ensures that only sparkling wines produced in this specific region, following strict regulations, can be labeled as Champagne.

The Production Process

The production of Champagne is a labor-intensive and meticulous process that distinguishes it from other sparkling wines. The traditional method, or Méthode Champenoise, involves several key steps:

1. Harvesting: The grapes used in Champagne production (primarily Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier) are hand-harvested to ensure only the best fruit is selected. Harvest typically occurs in September.

2. Primary Fermentation: After pressing, the grape juice undergoes primary fermentation in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels, resulting in a still wine.

3. Blending: Champagne producers often blend wines from different grape varieties, vineyards, and vintages to achieve a consistent house style. This blend, or cuvée, is crucial to the final product's flavour profile.

4. Secondary Fermentation: The blended wine is bottled with a mixture of sugar and yeast, known as the liqueur de tirage. The bottles are sealed with a crown cap and stored horizontally in cool cellars, where secondary fermentation occurs, producing carbon dioxide and creating the bubbles.

5. Riddling: After aging on the lees (dead yeast cells) for a minimum of 15 months for non-vintage Champagne (and at least three years for vintage Champagne), the bottles undergo riddling. This process involves gradually tilting and rotating the bottles to collect the lees in the neck.

6. Disgorgement: The necks of the bottles are frozen, and the lees are expelled in a process called disgorgement. The wine is then topped up with a mixture of wine and sugar, known as the dosage, which determines the sweetness level of the Champagne.

7. Corking and Aging: Finally, the bottles are sealed with a traditional cork and wire cage and allowed to age further before being released to the market.

Varieties of Champagne

Champagne comes in several styles, each offering a unique tasting experience:

1. Brut: The most common style, Brut Champagne is dry with minimal sugar. It is crisp and refreshing, making it a versatile choice for many occasions.

2. Extra Brut and Brut Nature: These styles are even drier than Brut, with very low or no added sugar. They are ideal for those who prefer a more austere, bone-dry wine.

3. Extra Dry: Despite the name, Extra Dry Champagne is slightly sweeter than Brut, with a hint of residual sugar that adds a touch of richness.

4. Sec, Demi-Sec, and Doux: These styles are progressively sweeter, with Doux being the sweetest. They are often enjoyed as dessert wines or with sweeter dishes.

5. Blanc de Blancs: Made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, Blanc de Blancs Champagne is typically light, elegant, and highly aromatic.

6. Blanc de Noirs: Produced from Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier grapes, Blanc de Noirs Champagne is richer and fuller-bodied, with more pronounced fruit flavours.

7. Rosé: Rosé Champagne can be made by blending red and white wines or by allowing extended contact with grape skins. It is known for its beautiful pink colour and flavours of red fruits.

Tasting Notes and Pairings

Champagne is celebrated for its complexity and versatility, making it a perfect match for various dishes. Champagne typically exhibits aromas of citrus, green apple, pear, and white flowers, with toasty, yeasty notes from aging on the lees. On the palate, Champagne offers flavours of apple, pear, lemon, and sometimes brioche or almond. The bubbles add a lively, refreshing quality.

Champagne pairs beautifully with light appetizers such as oysters, caviar, smoked salmon, and blinis. The wine's acidity and effervescence complement seafood dishes like lobster, scallops, and sushi. Interestingly, Champagne's versatility also shines with poultry and light meat dishes, including roasted chicken, turkey, and pork tenderloin. Soft, creamy cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and triple-cream cheeses are excellent companions for Champagne. In the case of sweeter styles of Champagne, they pair wonderfully with desserts like fruit tarts, macarons, and creamy pastries.

The Champagne Region

The Champagne region is located in northeastern France, approximately 90 miles northeast of Paris. The region's unique terroir, characterized by chalky soil and a cool climate, is ideal for producing high-quality sparkling wine. The primary subregions of Champagne include Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Blancs, and Côte des Bar, each contributing distinct characteristics to the wines.

The Future of Champagne

As global awareness of environmental issues grows, Champagne producers are increasingly focusing on sustainable practices. Many vineyards are adopting organic and biodynamic farming methods, reducing the use of pesticides and promoting biodiversity. Innovations in production technology, such as precision viticulture and eco-friendly packaging, are also helping to minimize the environmental impact of Champagne production. The future of Champagne looks promising, with ongoing innovation and a commitment to quality ensuring its continued status as a premium sparkling wine. Producers are exploring new markets and expanding their offerings, including the introduction of single-vineyard Champagnes and low-dosage styles to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Champagne, with its sparkling bubbles and rich history, remains the epitome of celebration and elegance. Whether enjoyed at a grand celebration or a quiet dinner, Champagne invites you to savour the moment and indulge in its timeless charm.