Strictly speaking, champagne is a sparkling wine that comes from the Champagne region in north-eastern France. If it is a bubbly wine from another region, it is sparkling wine, not Champagne. While many people use the term “Champagne” generically for any sparkling wine, the French have successfully defended their right to call their wines Champagne for over a century. The Treaty of Madrid, signed in 1891, established this rule, and the Treaty of Versailles reaffirmed it. The European Union helps to further protect this exclusivity, although certain American producers are still allowed to use the term “Champagne”.

Sparkling wines can be made in a variety of ways, but traditional Champagne comes to life through a process called “Méthode Champenoise”. Champagne begins its life like any normal wine. The grapes are harvested, pressed and undergo an initial fermentation. The acidic results of this process are then blended and bottled with a little yeast and sugar so that it can undergo a second fermentation in the bottle. This second fermentation gives the champagne its typical bubbles. The new yeast begins its work, then dies and becomes what is known as lees. The bottles are then stored horizontally so that the wine can “mature on the lees” for 15 months or longer. After this maturation, the winemakers turn the bottles upside down so that the lees can settle in the neck of the bottle. Once this has happened, the winemakers open the bottles to remove the yeast and add a little sugar, known as dosage, to determine the sweetness of the champagne. The terms brut and extra brut describe the sugar content of the champagne.

In addition to champagne, there are many other exquisite sparkling wines produced around the world. Prosecco from Italy, Cava from Spain and sparkling wine from Germany each offer unique flavor profiles and production methods. Prosecco is often produced using the Charmat method, where the second fermentation takes place in large pressurized tanks, giving it its fresh, fruity character. Cava, similar to champagne, is produced using the traditional method and offers a wide range of flavors. Sparkling wine, especially from German wine regions, is characterized by its high quality and variety.

In our online store, you will not only find exclusive spirits, but also fine champagnes and sparkling wines for every occasion. Whether as a treat for yourself or as a gift, whether it be brut, vintage champagne or rosé: you are spoiled for choice. Add a little glamor to your life and treat yourself to a bottle of this fine drink!