Ah, Champagne. Who doesn't like that bubbly smoothness? The term "Champagne" is actually a region in France, and only wines from this region can properly be deemed "Champagne." All other drinks with similar champagne-y fizz must be called "sparkling wines." What's so special about France? Well aside from Paris ... it's a culmination of the region's climate, soil and strict regulations that govern the production process of Champagne, that coin this exclusivity. It's accidental invention is also quite interesting. Sparkling wine is a result of second fermentation, but the trick that birthed the second fermentation was the accidental addition of sugar. The French have a tall-tale PR gimmick that includes a monk named Dom Pérignon getting into trouble with wines and coincidentally creating this elite drink. Would be quite the story, but it's not true. Soon after it's fortuitous birth, the drink was coined as "the devil's wine," since the corks exploded upon opening. But, Champagne was also regarded as an aristocratic drink. It was very customary for Champagne to be used in the anointment and rite of passage for French kings. Royalty throughout Europe spread the news of the glamorous drink and its association with high luxury, class and power in the 17th, 18th and 19th century. The rest is history.
Interestingly enough, Champagne is made from four different grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Gris. Usually it's the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that are used in most volume. After all, Chardonnay is a white wine grape; but Pinot Noir is red wine grape. How puzzling, right? Well, all grapes are white on the inside, so depending on the amount of tint required for certain wines, the skin remains on the grapes or is completely taken off. Same with Champagne. To achieve that beautiful blush color in pink Champagne, the skins stay in the liquid for a bit and voila!
So what about all these various brands? Some of the best Champagnes, only from France, of course, are: Champagne Krug, Champagne Dom Pérignon by the powerhouse Moët & Chandon, Champagne Perrier-Jouët , Champagne Tattinger, Champagne Veuve Clicquot & Champagne Bolinger. I still have yet to try these various types. A Champagne testing should be in order! Ladies?
Cocktails anyone? Champagne cocktails are probably my absolute favorite. Kir Royales are always a staple, pretty in hand, and so easy to make even for a dinner party. Simply add 3/4 Champagne and 1/4 Chambord, drop a raspberry on top and enjoy! Another absolute favorite to mix with a Brut Champagne is St- Germain and club soda. For more Champagne cocktails, click here.
What are some of your favorites?
Wow, very educational, great read :-)
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