Champagne – What is Champagne?
Champagne is used as a generic term for sparkling wine, but in the EU and some countries it is illegal to label any Champagne product unless it comes from the Champagne region of France and manufactured according to its own strict rules.
Conclusion: Champagne is a sparkling wine produced in the Champagne region of France and must be fermented from the Chardonnay grape variety to be called Champagne. The price of this wine is usually very expensive compared to other sparkling wines. Because the wine goes through a very elaborate production process, only vines that are over 20 years old are selected to make this wine.
Similarities and differences between Champagne and Sparkling Wine
► Similar: Both refer to the same sparkling wine
► Difference: Champagne is a sparkling wine line produced in the Champagne region of France and the price is often very high compared to other sparkling wines because of a manual, strict and very elaborate processing process.
Sparkling Wine: Refers to sparkling wines in general. And the price of this wine is often much lower than Champagne. With only 200,000 - 500,000 VND, you can own this sparkling wine.
Champagne production process
The production of Champagne is strictly controlled by the Appname d’Origine Controlee (AOC). From regulating how grapes are grown to how grapes are harvested and processed, there are strict standards. For example, all the grapes used in Champagne must be hand-picked and pressed in a sheltered environment…
Méthode Champenoise is the traditional method for the production of Champagne.
The fermentation process consists of two steps:
► First fermentation: The beginning is the process of harvesting grapes, then cleaning, separating the stalks, crushing and fermenting. The fermentation of grape juice takes place for about 2 to 3 weeks so that the sugar in the grape can be converted into alcohol, then the wine will be put into oak barrels to mature for a few months. then we had a bottle of wine that was almost like regular wines but not yet fully metabolised and without any foam. Champagne bottles are sealed with a crown cap, like the one used on beer bottles. In order to create air bubbles in the wine bottle, the producer begins to put this wine to ferment a second time.
► Second fermentation: This process is made by adding a few grams of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and rock sugar to the bottle. However, each brand will have its own fermentation secrets. The wine bottles are stored in the cellar and are stacked horizontally. The environment during fermentation and second aging is very important. This process takes place in the bottle and is closely monitored by skilled craftsmen with temperature controlled by specially designed Artificial Light. The temperature should stay cool 10-11°C continuously and never get higher to avoid spoilage of the wine.
When the fermentation is over, the bottles are left upside down at a 35% angle and slowly turned down. After about 3 weeks, the neck of the bottle was turned downward at a 75% slope so that the dead yeast cells settled into the neck of the bottle. Champagne will reach fullness and perfection for a minimum of 3 years. The wine is then cooled, the neck of the bottle is frozen, and the cap is removed. Pressure in the bottle pushes out the ice containing dead yeast cells, some alcohol from the previous vintage as well as added sugar to maintain volume in the bottle and, importantly, regulate sweetness. of finished wine. The bottle is then quickly corkscrewed to maintain the carbon dioxide in the wine. During this fermentation process, the wine will produce carbon dioxide gas, this gas cannot be evaporated out, so it has hidden and mixed into the wine, thus creating an explosion when the cork is opened and bubbles are floating. up when pouring wine into the glass.
Due to the great pressure of the carbon dioxide in the wine bottle, the manufacturer will usually fix the cork with steel cork rings and a layer of foil wrapped outside, to ensure safety for diners as well as retain the The most distinctive feature of Champagne bottles.
Finally, the bottles are ready to be enjoyed.
The main grape variety that makes up champagne - champagne
Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay are the three main grape varieties used to make Champagne. This is also the recipe of all other sparkling wines in the world. In addition, four other grape varieties are also allowed but in limited quantities: Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Petit Meslier and Arbane.
► Pinot Noir: is a grape with black skin and white flesh. It offers a blend of herbs and red fruits such as cherries, raspberries and strawberries.
► Pinot Meunier: is a family of Pinot Noir grapes, bearing aromas of white fruits, apples and pears.
► Chardonnay: is the only grape of the three main grape varieties with white skin, bringing the elegance, freshness of citrus aromas and white flowers.
