Bubbly Wines

Throughout the world there are many bubbly wines made after the style of Champagne, but only those made in that region in the north of France, according to the painstaking Méthode Champenoise, can rightfully be called Champagne. All others should be labeled as Sparkling Wine, and if they follow the same method it is called the Classic Method or a vernacular equivalent (i.e. Méthode Traditionnelle). Very inexpensive bubblies are mass-produced in departures from this technique.

Champagne (the original)

French Champagne is without question the finest sparkling wine made in the world. Champagne is the name of the wine region located about 90 miles northeast of Paris.

Champagne can contain up to three different grapes: Chardonnay, and the red grapes Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Vintage Champagnes are only produced in the very best years; they are always more expensive than nonvintage Champagnes, but they are not always better tasting. Most Champagnes are the supreme expression of the blender's art, assembled from numerous vintages, multiple grape types and various selected vineyards within the Champagne district, then carefully hand made and fermented in the bottle. By making these blends, the winemakers are able to create a consistent ''house'' style and, indeed, each Champagne producer has its own distinct style. In Champagne, the name and reputation of the producer tells you more about the wine than any other single factor.

Finally, there are several important terms you will encounter on a Champagne label that tell you much about the contents. From dry to sweet, Champagnes are labeled Brut Absolut, Brut, Extra-Dry, Sec, Demi-Sec and Doux. Blanc de Blanc bottlings are made entirely from Chardonnay grapes and tend to be lighter and more delicate in style. Blanc de Noirs are made from red grapes and tend to be fuller bodied and richer tasting; Rose Champagnes are dark pink in color and frequently intensely flavored.

Champagnes combine the complexities of fine grapes grown in some of the best vineyards in France with the intricate subtleties of yeast and sometimes even oak elements plus the experience of tongue-tickling delight from pinpoint bubbles and effervescence to create one of the most sensual taste experiences in the world!

Other Sparkling Wines

Following the model of Champagne, sparkling wines are made throughout the world. The best of them use the same method, with a second fermentation occurring in the bottle. Good sparklers come from other parts of France, Italy, Spain, Australia and California. The wines are crisp, lively, and full of apple and yeasty bread scents.