Champagne

We let you in on some interesting facts about this noble bubbly from France:

• Only sparkling wine from the strictly delimited region of Champagne, east of Paris, may call itself Champagne.
• The only varieties allowed for use in Champagne are the red grapes Pinot noir and Pinot meunier along with the white Chardonnay grape.

• A Champagne made from 100% white grapes is called a Blanc de blancs. A version made from 100% red grapes is called a Blanc de noirs.

• Champagne owes its perlage to a secondary fermentation in the bottle – as opposed to Prosecco, for example, where this process takes place in a tank.
• Champagne is usually a blend of several vintages. In exceptional years, many estates also press a vintage Champagne.

By the way, Champagne pairs surprisingly well with a wide variety of dishes. From apéritifs to desserts, it can be served with all sorts of things.