CHAMPAGNER

The 50 most important champagne brands & houses

The 50 most important champagne brands are described in detail on the following pages. These brands are among the most important and most frequently available champagnes on the market. However, if you are missing a brand or if you yourself are the producer of a champagne house that we have not described or possibly not reproduced correctly, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Origin and production

Champagne, der edle Schaumwein, stammt aus der renommierten Weinregion Champagne in Frankreich. Die Herstellung unterliegt strengen, festgelegten Regeln, die sicherstellen, dass jeder Tropfen Champagner höchsten Qualitätsstandards entspricht. Im Französischen wird dieser Schaumwein als „vin de Champagne“ bezeichnet, während er im Deutschen zur Kategorie der Schaumweine zählt.

The importance of champagne

Champagne is the ultimate luxury drink for festive occasions worldwide. It is recognised as one of the finest drinks and is a must at any first-class event. Its uniqueness and elegance make it the preferred choice for special celebrations and important moments.

The production process: Méthode Traditionnelle

The special effervescence of champagne comes from a second fermentation, known as the "méthode traditionnelle" or "méthode champenoise". In this process, carbon dioxide is produced naturally, creating the characteristic bubbles.

Legal requirements for the designation "Champagne"

Only sparkling wine that is produced according to the strict rules of the "méthode traditionnelle" or "méthode champenoise" and whose grapes come from the Champagne region may be called Champagne. The entire production process must also take place in Champagne. These requirements are laid down in the French Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC), which guarantees the protection and authenticity of Champagne.

The regions of Champagne

Die Champagne ist in mehrere Unterregionen unterteilt, die jeweils einzigartige Bedingungen für den Anbau der Trauben bieten. Die bekanntesten Unterregionen sind Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Blancs und Côte des Bar. Jede dieser Regionen trägt durch ihre spezifischen Boden- und Klimabedingungen zur Vielfalt und Qualität bei.

Champagne grape varieties

The three main grape varieties used in the production of champagne are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Chardonnay brings elegance and freshness to champagne, Pinot Noir lends structure and complexity, while Pinot Meunier provides fruitiness and softness. The art of champagne production lies in the skilful combination of these grape varieties to create harmonious and balanced cuvées.

Champagne houses and their importance

Champagne is home to numerous renowned champagne houses that are known worldwide for their excellent products. These houses, such as Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Dom Pérignon, have a long tradition and contribute significantly to the fame and reputation of champagne. Each house has its own secrets and techniques that are passed down from generation to generation and contribute to the unique identity of their champagnes.

Champagne and its storage

Champagne should be stored in a cool place away from light to preserve its quality. A constant temperature between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius is ideal. The bottles should be stored horizontally so that the cork remains moist and no air can penetrate. If stored correctly, champagne can mature for many years and gain in complexity.

Champagne is more than just a drink; it is a symbol of elegance, luxury and celebration. Its production and origin make it a unique product that ensures unforgettable moments on special occasions. The attention to detail and strict quality standards that go into every bottle reflect the rich tradition and craftsmanship of Champagne.