Champagne is more than a wine; it is a symbol of celebration, achievement, and joy. Yet beyond the pop of the cork lies a fascinating world of terroir, tradition, and craftsmanship. Understanding Champagne's history and styles will help you choose the perfect bottle for every occasion.
A Brief History
Contrary to popular belief, Dom Perignon did not invent Champagne. The region's winemaking history stretches back to the Romans, and the sparkling style evolved gradually over centuries. The development of stronger glass bottles and the cork stopper in the 17th century made it possible to capture and preserve the wine's natural effervescence. By the 18th century, Champagne had become the drink of royalty and aristocracy across Europe.
The Three Grapes
Champagne is made primarily from three grape varieties. Chardonnay brings elegance, finesse, and citrus notes. Pinot Noir contributes structure, body, and red fruit character. Pinot Meunier adds roundness, fruitiness, and approachability. The art of Champagne lies in blending these varieties, along with wines from different vintages, to create a consistent house style.
Understanding Champagne Styles
Non-Vintage Brut
The backbone of every Champagne house, NV Brut is a blend of multiple vintages designed to express the house style consistently year after year. This is the Champagne for aperitifs, celebrations, and everyday luxury. The best examples offer remarkable complexity despite their accessibility.
Blanc de Blancs
Made exclusively from Chardonnay, Blanc de Blancs Champagnes are the most elegant and refined. They tend to be lighter in body with notes of citrus, white flowers, and chalk. The finest examples, particularly from the Cote des Blancs, are among the greatest sparkling wines in the world.
Blanc de Noirs
Made from black grapes (Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier), Blanc de Noirs offers a richer, more vinous style. These Champagnes have more body and structure, with notes of red apple, brioche, and stone fruit. They are excellent with food and make a wonderful alternative to the more common Brut blends.
Rose Champagne
Rose Champagne can be made by blending red and white base wines or by brief skin contact with Pinot Noir. The result is a wine of beautiful colour and flavour, ranging from pale salmon to deep copper. Rose Champagne pairs brilliantly with food, from salmon to duck, and makes any occasion feel special.
Vintage and Prestige Cuvee
In exceptional years, houses release vintage Champagnes made entirely from a single harvest. These wines are aged longer on their lees, developing extraordinary complexity. Prestige Cuvees, such as Dom Perignon, Krug Grande Cuvee, and Comtes de Champagne, represent the pinnacle of each house's production.
Grower Champagne
One of the most exciting developments in Champagne is the rise of grower producers. These are vignerons who grow their own grapes and make their own wine, rather than selling to the large houses. Grower Champagnes often show more terroir character and individuality. Look for the letters "RM" (Recoltant-Manipulant) on the label.
Selecting the Perfect Bottle
The perfect Champagne depends on the occasion. For aperitifs and toasts, a well-made NV Brut is ideal. For dinner, consider a Blanc de Blancs with seafood or a Rose with richer dishes. For special milestones, a vintage or prestige cuvee makes a memorable statement. At Mosse and Mosse, we can help you navigate the wonderful world of Champagne to find exactly the right bottle.
"I hunt the best so you can enjoy what's in your glass."
Tim Mosse, Mosse and Mosse