Champagne made in the Champagne region of France
Champagne is one of the most special sparkling wines. Only wine produced in the Champagne region of northern France can be called ``Champagne.'' This is strictly regulated by French wine law. Furthermore, the manufacturing method is strictly controlled. Only sparkling wine made in the Champagne region according to strict laws can be called ``Champagne.'' It's a special wine that takes a lot of time and care to make, so it's a special wine.How to make champagne
You're probably wondering how it's manufactured in accordance with strict laws. The main rules in the champagne production process are as follows:- Grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Meunier
- Comply with the minimum alcohol content set annually.
- Brewed using a natural process called the ``Champagne method.''
- Aged in bottle for a minimum of 15 months before release.
champagne grape varieties
Grape varieties are determined based on the characteristics of the Champagne terroir. The majority are Pinot Noir (black grape), Meunier (black grape), and Chardonnay (white grape).pinot noir
Pinot Noir gives body and strength. The cultivated area accounts for 38% of the total. Ideal for calcareous soils and cool climates. It is characterized by its red berry aroma and unique structure. Click here for a list of Pinot Noir productsMeunier
``Meunier'' gives suppleness and roundness. The cultivated area is 32% of the total. It is a highly resistant grape variety that can grow in climatic conditions that are difficult for viticulture. Produces supple and fruity wine. Click here for a list of Meunier productsChardonnay
Chardonnay is characterized by its delicate aroma. The cultivated area is 30% of the total. Chardonnay wines are characterized by delicate aromas such as floral, citrus, and sometimes mineral aromas. Because it matures slowly, it is also suitable for long-term aging. Click here for a list of Chardonnay productsWhat is the “Champagne method”?
A unique brewing method for Champagne is ``secondary fermentation in the bottle.'' Initial fermentation takes place in tanks or barrels, followed by bottling. Let it ferment a second time in the bottle. This secondary fermentation method in the bottle is a traditional process also known as the Champagne method. The wine undergoes secondary fermentation slowly over a period of about two months. During this slow fermentation, the aromas of the wine become more complex and harmonious, creating a champagne with unique bubbles. Champagne is made slowly and with much effort, which is what makes it such a special wine. What characteristics do other sparkling wines have? Let's take a look.sparkling wine is sparkling wine
In English and Japanese, it is called "sparkling wine," but the name changes depending on the country. You often hear about the Italian ``spumante.'' Spumante means sparkling wine in Italian.| Country | sparkling wine name |
| France | Van Moussou |
| Italy | spumante |
| Spain | Espumoso |
- Italian "Prosecco"
- Spain's Cava
Recommended sparkling wine ① Prosecco
Prosecco is the world's best-selling sparkling wine. A sparkling wine representing Italy. You can feel the fruit flavor firmly, and the refreshing freshness and fruitiness are attractive.How is prosecco made?
One of the major differences between Champagne and Prosecco is the fermentation method. Champagne is traditionally fermented in the bottle using a second fermentation method. Prosecco is made using the Italian method of closed tank system, where the second fermentation is carried out in separate bottles rather than in individual bottles. , in a large stainless steel tank. Champagne is characterized by a faint bread-like aroma due to the long-term contact between wine and yeast in the bottle. Prosecco is fermented in large stainless steel tanks, allowing you to enjoy the pure aroma of grapes. It is also characterized by its low alcohol content, which makes it light and easy to drink. It is also perfect as an aperitif in early summer or summer.About Prosecco grape varieties
More than 85% of the wine is made from the grape called Glera. The remaining 15% is allowed to use other grapes. Glera was formerly known as Prosecco, but changed to Glera in 2009. It is a neutral variety that is perfect for sparkling wines with acidity, and has a white peach-like aroma. Fruity, fresh, and refreshing Prosecco Perfect for an aperitif. On hot summer days, we recommend adding ice to keep it crisp and chilled.Recommended sparkling wine ② Cava
Next, let's talk about Cava, Spain's representative sparkling wine. Despite being made using the same in-bottle secondary fermentation method as champagne, this wine can be enjoyed at an affordable price.How is kava made?
Why is it possible to enjoy it at such an affordable price even though it uses the time-consuming secondary fermentation method in the bottle? The secret lies in the mechanization of the process. When making cava wine, the production, storage, and bottling are often done using machines. Particularly in the case of champagne, the tirage process, which involves rotating and tipping the bottle, which is often done by hand, has been mechanized, resulting in significant cost reductions.About Cava grape varieties
It is based on three local grapes: Macabeo, Xarello and Parellada. Each Macabeo is refreshing, light and dry. It blends well with a variety of styles, from honey and nutty bouquets to more floral styles. It is also resistant to oxidation. Click here for a list of Macabeo products Xarello The fruit has a thick skin, so it contains a lot of natural polyphenols. A great balance of sugar and acid. Additionally, the high polyphenol content adds textural complexity to the wine. Click here for a list of Xarello products Parellada Parellada is used to soften the high acidity of Macabeo and Xarello. It imparts a green apple aroma that pairs well with the earthy taste of Xarello and the floral aroma of Macabeo. I want to drink delicious sparkling cava on a budget while keeping my budget low! This is a recommended wine for those occasions. Click here for a list of Valerada products.How to enjoy champagne and sparkling wine
A sparkling wine with sparkling bubbles that spreads in your mouth.
With its refreshing and gorgeous impression, it's the kind of wine you'd want to toast on a special occasion.
Among them, ``champagne'' is a wine that makes you feel special just by hearing it. It is an indispensable wine for celebrations even in its home country of France.
Toast with cava for a small celebration or to reward yourself...
On a hot summer day, enjoy prosecco with ice and cheese before meals...
Have a luxurious toast with champagne for weddings, anniversaries, and parties!
and according to the mood and occasion of the day.
Please enjoy sparkling wine that makes you feel a little happy!
