Discovering Still Wines from Champagne: History, Unique Characteristics, and Must-Try Appellations

Our Selection Champagne Wines

Champagne is renowned globally for its sparkling wines, but it also produces still wines of exceptional quality that deserve to be (re)discovered and appreciated. In this article, we will explore the history of Champagne wines, the uniqueness of still wines made in Champagne, and three must-try appellations!

Still Wines from Champagne

Champagne is one of the most famous wine regions in the world. This historic region in northeastern France has long been distinguished by its exceptional terroir, characterized by a cool climate, limestone soils, and a unique sparkling wine production method that has earned it worldwide acclaim. However, before the advent of sparkling champagne in the 17th century, the region primarily produced still wines. These wines have endured through the centuries and continue to stand out today, thanks to the quality of their terroir and the expertise of Champagne winemakers.

But before we delve further, you might be wondering: "What is a still wine?" Simply put, a still wine is a wine without effervescence! While this characteristic is the norm in most wine regions in France, in Champagne, bubbles have been celebrated for nearly four centuries. Despite their relative rarity today, still wines from Champagne are far from lacking interest—in fact, they offer plenty of appeal! Champagne produces mainly three types of still wines: AOC Coteaux Champenois (available in white, rosé, and red), AOC Rosé-des-Riceys, and IGP Ratafia Champenois (a fortified sweet wine). Each has its own distinct characteristics in terms of grape varieties, aromas, and winemaking methods.

AOC Coteaux Champenois

AOC Coteaux Champenois wines are made from the same grape varieties as Champagne: Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier (for red and rosé wines) and Chardonnay (for white wines). They are traditionally vinified without effervescence and often rival the best Burgundy wines. The unique Champagne terroir imparts a distinctive mineral quality to AOC Coteaux Champenois wines, present in both white and red/rosé wines. These still wines offer a range of aromas depending on their color and domain:

• AOC Coteaux Champenois Red: Develops aromas of red and black fruits (cherry, raspberry), spices, and forest undergrowth. The palate is often straight and very fine.
• AOC Coteaux Champenois Rosé: Charms with notes of red fruits, citrus, and flowers, supported by a beautiful tension on the palate.
• AOC Coteaux Champenois White: Both lively and light, these white wines reveal a delicate aromatic palette of white fruits, flowers, and buttery brioche.

AOC Rosé-des-Riceys

Rosé-des-Riceys is a still rosé wine produced exclusively in the village of Riceys, located in the Côte des Bar. This rare and prestigious wine is made from the finest Pinot Noir parcels, the region's emblematic grape variety. Its color can range from pale pink to a deeper shade depending on the cuvée. With its unique aromas of red and black fruits (cherry, raspberry, blackcurrant), almond, bergamot, and grenadine, Rosé-des-Riceys is a rosé like no other. Its dense and structured palate makes it an excellent gastronomic rosé. It pairs wonderfully with dishes like fig-stuffed rabbit or roasted pork tenderloin.

IGP Ratafia Champenois

Ratafia Champenois is a fortified wine made from Champagne grape must and Champagne brandy. Originally considered an aperitif reserved for winemakers, Ratafia Champenois has enjoyed IGP (Protected Geographical Indication) status since 2015. The production of Ratafia follows an ancestral method where fermentation is halted by adding Champagne brandy to the grape must. This process preserves some of the grape's natural sugars, and the Ratafia is then aged in casks for at least 10 months (though some Ratafias are bottled after 3 years, or even 8 years of aging). Its amber color and aromas of candied fruits, spices, honey, and caramel make it a sweet and indulgent wine of great complexity. Perfect as an aperitif or paired with blue cheeses or desserts, especially those with fruits or chocolate. Its alcohol content typically ranges between 18% and 22%.

As we have seen, still wines from Champagne reflect an ancestral expertise and unique terroir that deserve to be discovered and appreciated for their true value. So, don't wait any longer and set out to explore Champagne's still wines today! At Avenue des Vins, we offer a wide selection of red, rosé, and white wines, champagnes, and Crémants directly from the estates and châteaux of your choice. Each wine is carefully selected and delivered to your home, providing you with an unforgettable tasting experience at an unbeatable quality-price ratio !