All about Champagne
- What is Champagne?
- The Champagne Region
- How is Champagne made?
- How to open Champagne
- Serving Champagne
- Storing opened champagne
- Storing unopened champagne
- Champagne shelf life
- Most Popular Champagne Cocktails
- Celebrate Mother’s Day with Champagne
Information & Advice
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Frequently asked questions about champagne
Do you have questions about champagne? On this page you will find answers to frequently asked questions about storing, serving and choosing champagne.
Frequently asked questions
What is champagne?
Champagne is a sparkling wine from the Champagne region in France. Only wines produced in this region according to the traditional method may officially be called champagne.
Read more about what champagne isWhat types of champagne are there?
Champagne comes in different styles, such as brut, demi-sec, blanc de blancs and blanc de noirs. Each style has its own flavour profile and character.
Read more about champagne types
Which grapes are used to make champagne?
Champagne is usually made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. These grapes together provide freshness, structure and fruit character.
Read more about grapes and champagne
How is champagne made?
Champagne is produced using the traditional method. During this process, a second fermentation takes place in the bottle, which creates the fine bubbles.
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What is brut champagne?
Brut champagne is the most well-known and popular style. It has a dry taste and contains very little residual sugar.
Read more about brut champagne
What is demi-sec champagne?
Demi-sec champagne is slightly sweeter than brut champagne. This style pairs well with desserts or festive occasions where a softer flavour is preferred.
Read more about demi-sec champagne
What is blanc de blancs champagne?
Blanc de blancs champagne is made exclusively from white grapes, usually Chardonnay. This style is often known for its fresh and refined character.
Read more about blanc de blancs champagne
What is the best way to store champagne?
Champagne is best stored in a dark place, at a stable temperature and with minimal movement. Different advice applies to opened and unopened bottles.
Read more about storing unopened champagne
Read more about storing opened champagne
How long does champagne last?
The shelf life of champagne depends on the type of champagne and how it is stored. An opened bottle usually stays good for several days, while unopened champagne can last much longer.
Read more about champagne shelf life
What are the most popular champagne cocktails?
Well-known champagne cocktails include the Mimosa, French 75, Bellini and Kir Royal. These cocktails are popular as festive aperitifs or during brunch.
View popular champagne cocktails
Where is the Champagne region located?
The Champagne region is located in the northeast of France and is the only region where true champagne may be produced.
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Can you visit champagne houses?
Yes, many champagne houses in the Champagne region can be visited. You can often take guided tours, explore the cellars and taste different champagnes.
Read more about the Champagne region and champagne houses
How do you open a bottle of champagne?
The safest way to open a bottle of champagne is to hold the cork firmly and slowly twist the bottle. This prevents the cork from shooting out uncontrollably.
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How should champagne be served?
Champagne is best served well chilled and preferably in a suitable glass, such as a flute or tulip-shaped glass. Pouring slowly also helps preserve the bubbles.