Notes

How did champagne get its name?
The word "champagne" is obtained from the Latin word "campania" and the French word "champagne". It is thought that the first taped usage of the word "champagne" to refer to a particular red wine region was in 1284, when the Pope gave theChampagne districtto the Count of Champagne.

The earliest recognized mention of sparkling wine is from a Spanish document from 1497. The document describes a red wine from the Spanish town of Sant Sadurn� d'Anoia called "vino de la communidad", which was made by adding sugar and yeast to red wine that had actually been fermenting in barrels. This white wine was then kept in underground cellars up until it was prepared to drink.


The very first recorded usage of the word "champagne" to describe a particular red wine product remained in 1662, when Dom P�rignon, a Benedictine monk, was serving as cellarer at the Abbey of Hautvillers. His job was to supervise the production of white wine, and he is credited with establishing the strategy of mixing various red wines to create a more uniform product. He also started including sugar to the wine to offset its natural bitterness, and he is believed to be the first to utilize corks to bottle gleaming white wine.

The Champagne region lies in northeastern France, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) east of Paris. The region has a cool climate, which is essential for the production of good gleaming red wine. The grapes for Champagne are grown in milky soil, which is also needed for the red wine's unique taste.

The Champagne region is divided into 5 sub-regions: the Montagne de Reims, the Vall�e de la Marne, the C�te des Blancs, the C�te des Bar, and the Aube. The best-known white wines originate from the very first 3 of these sub-regions.

The Montagne de Reims is known for its Pinot Noir grapes, which produce full-bodied red wines. The Vall�e de la Marne is understood for its Pinot Meunier grapes, which produce fruity wines. The C�te des Blancs is understood for its Chardonnay grapes, which produce light, crisp wines.

Sparkling from this source was first produced in the Champagne area in the early 1700s. The red wines were made in the m�thode champenoise, or Champagne approach, which involves a 2nd fermentation in the bottle.

The m�thode champenoise is a lengthy and pricey process, which is why Champagne is usually more expensive than other types of sparkling wine.


The majority of the Champagne produced in the area is white, however a percentage of red Champagne is also made. Champagne is usually drunk as an aperitif, or prior to a meal, however it can also be intoxicated with food.

Champagne is a popular choice for special occasions, such as weddings, anniversaries, and New Year's Eve. It is likewise frequently offered as a present.


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