Champagne Flashcards
What part of France is Champagne located in?
The north-east
What is the CIVC? What does it do?
The Comité Interprofessionel du Vin du Champagne, also known as the Comité Champagne. It is responsible for ensuring that wines labelled ‘Champagne’ are made in the traditional method from grapes grown in the Champagne region.
What are the styles of Champagne?
Non-vintage Vintage Rosé Blanc de Blancs Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru Premier Cru Prestige Cuvée Late Release/Recently Disgorged
In what style is the majority of Champagne produced in?
White, non-vintage, fully sparkling, and brut from the three principle Champagne varieties
What are the three main Champagne varieties? Are they black or white grapes?
Pinot Noir (black)
Meunier (black)
Chardonnay (white)
What is the typical character of the majority of Champagne?
Brut
High acid
Medium alcohol
Medium intensity green apple, lemon, and biscuity autolytic notes
What is the typical quality and pricing of Champagne?
Good to outstanding quality
Mid- to premium priced
What is the usual pricing for Vintage and Prestige Cuvée Champagne?
Premium and super premium
Describe non-vintage Champagne.
A fully sparkling wine made from multiple vintages that adheres to a house style.
Why is non-vintage Champagne a viable product? What does it allow Champagne producers to achieve?
The blending of multiple vintages of wine helps to smooth out vintage variation, allowing Champagne houses to deliver a product with consistent aroma and flavor components. The consistency offers market security and product identity.
