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Champagne Wine
Champagne is without question the finest sparkling wine made in
the world. Champagne is the name of the wine region located
about 90 miles northeast of Paris.
Champagne can contain up to three different grapes: Chardonnay,
and the red grapes Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Vintage
Champagnes are only produced in the very best years; they are
always more expensive than non-vintage Champagnes, but they are
not always better tasting. Most Champagnes are the supreme
expression of the Champagne blender's art, assembled from
numerous vintages, multiple grape types and various selected
vineyards within the Champagne district, then carefully hand
made and fermented in the bottle. By making these blends, the
Champagne winemakers are able to create a consistent ''house''
style and, indeed, each Champagne producer has its own distinct
style.
Finally, there are several important terms you will encounter
on a Champagne label that tell you much about the contents.
From dry to sweet, Champagnes are labeled Brut Absolut, Brut,
Extra-Dry, Sec, Demi-Sec and Doux. Blanc de Blanc Champagne
bottlings are made entirely from Chardonnay grapes and tend to
be lighter and more delicate in style. Blanc de Noirs
Champagnes are made from red grapes and tend to be fuller
bodied and richer tasting; Rose Champagnes are dark pink in
color and frequently intensely flavored.
In Champagne, the name and reputation of the producer tells you
more about the wine than any other single factor. Champagnes
combine the complexities of fine grapes grown in some of the
best vineyards in France with the intricate subtleties of yeast
and sometimes even oak elements plus the experience of
tongue-tickling delight from pinpoint bubbles and effervescence
to create one of the most sensual taste experiences in the
world!
About The Author: Wine ratings, wine and winery related
information for the enjoyment of fine wines.
http://www.greatwinesmadesimple.com
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