Why is Champagne so darn romantic?
Champagne is a renowned wine region located in Northern France, famous for producing the iconic sparkling wine known as Champagne. To legally be labeled as Champagne, the wine must be made through a secondary fermentation process inside the bottle, which creates its signature effervescence. The grapes used must be sourced exclusively from this region and can only include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
The History of Champagne: A Serendipitous Discovery
The origins of Champagne trace back to the late 1500s to 1700s when winemakers in Champagne faced an unexpected challenge. During the warmer spring months, any wines still fermenting in cellars would often undergo a secondary fermentation inside the bottle, causing bottles to explode due to the buildup of carbon dioxide. These effervescent wines were initially discarded.
In the late 1600s, Benedictine monk Dom Pérignon tasted one of these unstable bottles and famously declared, "Come quickly, I am tasting stars!" This marked the beginning of Champagne’s rise to fame as a sparkling wine.
All those bubbles were a happy accident!
The Champagne Production Process
Today, Champagne is produced using a meticulous method that requires more human intervention than any other wine. Each bottle is hand-turned 2-3 times a day to encourage sediment to move towards the neck. After fermentation, the bottle is opened to release the yeast plug that forms at the top before the cork and wire cage are added to securely seal the bottle. This intricate process, combined with its unique history, makes Champagne a truly special wine.
Champagne and Celebration
Champagne is often regarded as the wine most closely associated with celebration. Its effervescent bubbles and rich history make it the perfect drink for marking special occasions. So why not pop a bottle of Champagne and celebrate life's stars?
Champagne Dryness Levels: A Quick Guide
Champagne comes in various dryness levels, each with its own distinct flavor profile. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the different terms used to describe Champagne’s dryness:
Brut Nature: The driest Champagne, with minimal sweetness.
Brut: Very dry, with crisp acidity.
Extra Dry: Slightly less dry than Brut, with a softer acidity and rounder mouthfeel.
Demi-Sec: Translates to "semi-dry," with a subtle sweetness.
Doux: The sweetest Champagne, often balanced with bright acidity.
Rosé: Despite the pink color, Rosé Champagne is typically not sweet. It will be as dry as its designation suggests.
By understanding these key terms, you can select the perfect Champagne to suit your taste preferences. Stop by Copa Wine Bar to celebrate with a glass of your favorite bubbles.