Do we still need to introduce Champagne wines? Together with Bordeaux and Burgundy, this is one of the trademark regions associated with French winemaking. Champagne is always a synonym for celebration and party. I enjoy opening a bottle in the middle of the week to create a festive atmosphere in the house.
Champagne also has a remarkable history through the centuries, accompanying royal weddings and revolutions. But Champagne did not start as the beverage we know today! Originally it was sold in bulk. Starting in the middle of the 17th century, Champagne was bottled to keep its freshness and aroma. The bottling of Champagne triggered the second fermentation, the one that makes the wine sparkling. Following this new phenomenon, the wine was baptized “devil’s wine”, as corks were popping causing some bottles to explode. Thanks to several innovations through the centuries, consumers can now enjoy the delicacy of these little bubbles that sparkle in our glasses.
The United States is the second largest Champagne export market after the United Kingdom. All the main brands are distributed, though I find that too few Champagne Artisans are present! They have a true savoir-faire and can offer a better product than a global brand, as they have the capacity to baby-sit their bottles during the entire production phase.
Because Champagne has to be spontaneous, festive and pleasant, it should also be accessible. Therefore I always go for the quality rather than the fame. You will find here some Champagne Wines from acclaimed producers that want to translate the unique quality of their terroir as well as their family legacy into an exceptional wine.
