What Makes a Champagne, Champagne?
Champagne holds a special place in the world of drinks—not just because of its bubbles, but because of the tradition, craftsmanship, and region behind every bottle. Made exclusively in the Champagne region of France, this sparkling wine undergoes a meticulous process that lends it its signature finesse and complexity. Whether it’s popping a bottle to celebrate or savouring a glass on a quiet evening, champagne brings a sense of occasion and elegance that few other drinks can match.
The Region Itself
Champagne is a region in northeastern France, best known as the birthplace of the sparkling wine that shares its name. The drink's fizzy fame began in the 17th century, with monks like Dom Pérignon playing a key role in refining its production. The Champagne AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) was officially established in 1936 to protect the region's unique methods and terroir. Only sparkling wines made under strict rules within this area—using specific grapes like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier—can legally be called Champagne. It's a mix of tradition, geography, and a bit of French pride in every bottle.
How it’s Made
Champagne starts as regular grape juice, but what makes it special is the process it goes through. First, the grapes are pressed and fermented into wine. Then, a little bit of sugar and yeast is added before the wine is bottled with a tight seal. This causes a second fermentation inside the bottle, which creates those famous bubbles. After ageing for a while, the bottles are carefully tilted and turned to collect the yeast sediment near the neck. The sediment is then removed, a bit of sweetening liquid is added if needed, and the bottle is corked and ready to enjoy. So, those sparkling bubbles come from a clever process that traps carbon dioxide right inside the bottle.
The Essential Types of Champagne
Champagne comes in several main types, distinguished by grape blend and sweetness level. The most common type is Brut, a dry style with minimal sugar, followed by Extra Brut (even drier) and Doux, which is the sweetest. Based on grape variety, Blanc de Blancs is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, offering a light, crisp profile, while Blanc de Noirs is made from Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier, resulting in a richer, fuller flavour. Rosé Champagne, either blended or macerated with red grape skins, has a pink hue and fruity notes. These differences affect taste, texture, and food pairings, making each type suited to different occasions and palates.
Some Ones for You to Try
Lamiable, Souffle D'Étoile Grand Cru, NV
Lamiable Souffle D'Étoile Grand Cru NV is a beautifully crafted Champagne from one of the top vineyard areas in France, known as a “Grand Cru.” Even if you’re new to Champagne, think of this as a refined but friendly introduction — it’s elegant, with fine bubbles and a balanced mix of fresh citrus, subtle toastiness, and a hint of minerality. "Souffle D'Étoile" means “breath of a star,” which fits the vibe perfectly: it’s light, bright, and feels a little bit special without being overly fancy. Great for celebrations or just elevating a regular night.
Laherte Frères, Rosé de Meunier, NV
Laherte Frères Rosé de Meunier is a unique and vibrant Champagne made from Pinot Meunier, which is less common but adds lots of character. It’s a rosé, so it has a beautiful pink colour and offers fresh, fruity flavours like berries and a touch of spice. Unlike big-name Champagnes, this one comes from a small, family-run producer that focuses on craftsmanship and expressing the natural qualities of the grapes. It’s refreshing, a bit different, and great for someone who wants to try something a little off the beaten path.
Pascal Agrapart, Les 7 Crus, NV
Pascal Agrapart’s Les 7 Crus is a great introduction to grower Champagne—meaning it’s made by the same people who grow the grapes. This bottle blends grapes from seven villages (hence the name “7 Crus”) and offers a fresh, crisp taste with notes of citrus, green apple, and a bit of toastiness. It’s not super fancy or flashy, but it’s thoughtful and well-made—kind of like the Champagne version of a smart casual outfit. If you’re curious about Champagne beyond the big brands, this is a great place to start.
Vouette et Sorbée, Blanc d’Argile, 2020
Vouette et Sorbée Blanc d’Argile 2020 is a unique and expressive Champagne made entirely from Chardonnay grapes. It’s crafted by a small, passionate producer in the southern part of the Champagne region, focusing on natural methods and minimal intervention. This bottle has a fresh, crisp character with notes of citrus, stone fruit, and a touch of minerality—think of it as bright, clean, and a little earthy. A fantastic pick if you’re interested in exploring distinctive Champagnes that express the region’s unique terroirs.
Chartogne-Taillet, Sainte Anne, NV
Chartogne-Taillet's Sainte Anne is a non-vintage Champagne that’s great for anyone curious to dip their toes into the world of bubbly. It comes from a small, family-run producer in France, and it's known for being really well-balanced—fresh and crisp, with subtle fruit flavours like apple and pear, plus a little brioche taste from ageing. It's not overly fancy or fussy, just a solid, approachable bottle that gives you a real taste of traditional Champagne without needing to be an expert. Great with food or on its own.
The world of Champagne doesn’t end there. Have a look at our website to find your perfect bottle.