How to: Choose a good Champagne

Redação

Choosing the perfect champagne to accompany you at celebrations may not be an easy task, but it is by far one of the most enjoyable and pleasant. There are several characteristics that should be considered when making your choice, and today you will discover the main ones.

Before we start with the tips, it is important to clarify one important detail: you may not know this, but not every sparkling wine is considered Champagne. This term specifically refers to sparkling wine produced in the Champagne region of France.

Without further ado, let’s get to the tips.

Sugar level

At the end of each Champagne’s second fermentation, a mixture with a sugar dosage is added to reduce the acidity of the drink. The level can vary between Brut Nature, Extra Brut, Brut, Extra Dry, Dry, and Doux.

Most Champagnes are produced at the Brut level. This dosage is essential, since the acidity before the second is very high, almost comparable to drinking pure lemon juice.

Production method

The style of Champagne varies according to the type of grape used in its production, which can be Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, as well as how they are blended. This gives rise to the Standard, Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, and Rosé types.

Age

Age is also a very important factor for Champagnes. Therefore, this is a detail worth paying attention to. Non-Vintage Champagnes have a minimum of 15 months and a more fruity flavor. Vintage ones, on the other hand, age for at least 3 years and have a slightly fuller body due to the longer fermentation time.

Wineries

The origin of the grapes that make up your wine is just as important as its preparation. Therefore, understanding and studying the winery that produces the grapes can be a good strategy when choosing a Champagne.

Producers

Last but not least, you can identify the origin of your Champagne through its producers. Maisons are the large and most traditional producers. Cooperatives are the intermediaries, and Vignerons are the small artisanal producers.

Did you like it, or do you have any other tips for choosing a good Champagne? Comment on our Instagram!