[PDF] CHAMPAGNE AND SPARKLING WINE - Vignobles

Is a sparkling wine a 'champagne'?

Any other sparkling wine isn’t Champagne at all, especially if it’s from somewhere else. In fact, it’s illegal to label a sparkling wine as “Champagne” in many countries unless it originated in Champagne, France and was crafted using permitted techniques in the region.

What is a Spanish sparkling wine?

Cava: A Spanish sparkling wine made from Macabeu grapes, this variety is said to have very similar flavor to Champagnes. French sparkling wine: Sparkling wines can come from France (outside of the Champagne region) and are made in a variety of sweet, dry and rosé varieties.

Is it illegal to label a sparkling wine 'champagne'?

In fact, it’s illegal to label a sparkling wine as “Champagne” in many countries unless it originated in Champagne, France and was crafted using permitted techniques in the region. Champagne may display a straw-colored hue, but more often than not, it comes from black grapes– Pinot Noir to be specific.

What is the difference between vintage and non-vintage Champagne?

Champagne and sparkling wines are also categorized as "vintage" or "non-vintage" (NV on the label) meaning they either come from a single year or are a blend of several different years. The "vintage" Champagnes are typically pricier, as the non-vintage Champagne and sparkling wines make up the majority of the market.