Champagne Blend is a sparkling wine that is produced exclusively in the Champagne region of France. The blend is made up of three grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. The history of Champagne dates back to the 17th century when the wine was first produced by the Benedictine monk Dom Perignon. Today, Champagne is one of the most popular and prestigious wines in the world.
The production of Champagne is a complex and time-consuming process. The grapes are harvested by hand and then pressed to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels. After the first fermentation, the wine is blended and bottled with a mixture of yeast and sugar, known as the liqueur de tirage. This mixture triggers a second fermentation in the bottle, which creates the bubbles that Champagne is famous for. The wine is then aged on its lees for a minimum of 15 months, but some Champagnes are aged for much longer.
Champagne is produced in a variety of styles, ranging from dry to sweet. The most common styles are Brut, Extra Brut, and Demi-Sec. Brut is the driest style, with less than 12 grams of sugar per liter. Extra Brut is even drier, with less than 6 grams of sugar per liter. Demi-Sec is the sweetest style, with between 32 and 50 grams of sugar per liter.
There are many Champagne producers in the region, each with their own unique style and history. Some of the most well-known producers include Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Dom Perignon. These producers have been making Champagne for centuries and are known for their high-quality wines.
Another notable Champagne producer is Krug. Founded in 1843, Krug is one of the oldest and most respected Champagne houses in the world. The house is known for its rich and complex wines, which are aged for a minimum of six years before release. Krug produces a range of Champagnes, including its flagship Grande Cuvee, which is a blend of more than 120 wines from ten or more different vintages.
In addition to the big Champagne houses, there are also many smaller, boutique producers in the region. These producers often focus on organic or biodynamic farming practices and produce small quantities of high-quality Champagne. Some notable boutique producers include Jacques Selosse, Egly-Ouriet, and Pierre Peters.
Overall, Champagne is a wine that is steeped in history and tradition. Its unique production process and complex flavors make it one of the most sought-after wines in the world. Whether you prefer a dry Brut or a sweet Demi-Sec, there is a Champagne out there for everyone.
