Champagne: world icon of elegance
French Champagne is the most renowned and appreciated sparkling wine in the world. The Champagne region in France is divided into five production areas: Montagne de Reims, Côte des Blancs, Vallée de la Marne, Côte de Sézanne, and Aube.
Each of these areas is dedicated to the cultivation of the grape varieties used in production: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
Pinot Noir is mainly grown in the Montagne de Reims area and south of the Côte de Bar. Chardonnay thrives in the Côte des Blancs and Côte de Sézanne, while Pinot Meunier is cultivated in the Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne regions.
The success and quality of Champagne are attributed to both the region's extraordinary terroir and its meticulous production methods. Additionally, centuries-old traditions and the high quality of the grape varieties used in production play a crucial role.
What are the Best Champagnes in the World?
Identifying the very best is a challenging task, given that these wines are of the highest quality.
Among the finest, we find Veuve Clicquot Champagne, whose history is closely linked to Madame Clicquot. In 1818, she created the first Rosé Champagne. Today, Champagne Veuve Clicquot is a distinguished Maison, with vineyards that include 12 Grand Cru and 20 Premier Cru sites.
Another remarkable Champagne is undoubtedly Piper-Heidsieck. It was founded in 1785 following the meeting of Florens-Louis Heidsieck and Agathe Perthois. Made from a cuvée of Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, and Pinot Noir, it is especially renowned in its Brut version.
Among the most esteemed Champagnes, we must mention Pommery. This, too, is a story of female entrepreneurship. In 1874, the visionary Madame Louise Pommery produced the first vintage brut Champagne in history.
At the time, Champagnes were sweeter, as they were primarily enjoyed as dessert wines. Madame Pommery created a cuvée with a lower sugar dosage, forever changing the course of Champagne history.
Another prestigious name in the world of Champagne is Moët & Chandon. This Maison was founded in 1743 by Claude Moët. Today, its Brut Impérial is one of the most famous Champagnes worldwide, a true icon of elegance and prestige.
It would be impossible not to mention the renowned Krug among the best. Produced in Reims, in the Champagne-Ardenne region, it was founded by the German Johann-Josef Krug. Krug Champagnes are exclusive, boasting a unique and inimitable style.
The final two Maisons that deserve a mention are G.H. Mumm and Ruinart. The former is home to the famous Grand Cordon, a Champagne deeply intertwined with French history.
The latter is the oldest Champagne house in France, producing the renowned Ruinart Blanc de Blancs, a tribute to the Maison's founder, Dom Thierry Ruinart.
Why is Champagne So Expensive?
The price of Champagne is influenced by numerous factors. Beyond its prestigious reputation as a symbol of France and its winemaking excellence, several other elements contribute to its cost.
One must consider vineyard management expenses and the quality of the grapes. Many Maisons still harvest grapes by hand. Moreover, the vinification process is highly complex, and ageing is often lengthy and costly.
Another key factor is organic farming. Many Champagne Maisons follow organic viticulture practices, which further impact the final price.
Additionally, one cannot overlook the historic significance of Champagne, the value of its region, and the legacy of the ancient Maisons responsible for its production. After all, Champagne is a prestigious wine of exceptional value.
What Types of Champagne Exist?
From a geographical perspective, the Champagne region is incredibly diverse. Choosing the best or most suitable Champagne for an occasion can be quite complex.
It is essential to understand the different types of Champagne. In the Montagne de Reims area, the esteemed Blanc de Noirs is produced, made exclusively from Pinot Noir or Petit Meunier grapes.
Blanc de Noirs crafted from Pinot Noir boasts a noble and powerful structure. Those produced in the Vallée de la Marne from Petit Meunier grapes are distinguished by their soft and seductive notes.
If you prefer a Champagne with delicate notes and an elegant structure, we recommend Blanc de Blancs, made solely from Chardonnay grapes. Whatever your preference, you will find a wide range of choices on Vino.com.
Why Buy Champagne Online?
Champagne is a prestigious, exclusive, and elegant product. Today, thanks to e-commerce, it is possible to indulge in a fine bottle of Champagne at accessible prices.
Among our selection, you will find renowned brands such as Moët & Chandon, Ruinart, Veuve Clicquot, and Laurent-Perrier. The refined offerings from Mumm, Billecart-Salmon, Bollinger, Charles Heidsieck, and Taittinger.
Additionally, you will discover Champagnes from Philipponnat, Bruno Paillard, and Louis Roederer, as well as the exquisite "Belle Époque" by Perrier-Jouët and the legendary "Dom Pérignon."
Discover the pleasure of purchasing an exceptional bottle of Champagne on Vino.com. For each label in our selection, you will find pairing recommendations, making it easy to choose the perfect Champagne for any occasion.