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The AOC (Controlled Designation of Origin) Champagne is the only designation that is not necessarily to be written on the bottle. Only a Champagne labelled in AOC Champagne can be called that, the name therefore stands on its own. And for good reason, this sparkling wine from Epernay's vicinity has a legendary history.

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Champagne: Everything You Need to Know About the Wines of This Appellation

History of the AOC Champagne

Looking to toast a special occasion? What better way than with a glass of champagne? A symbol of celebration and luxury in France and around the world, champagne has been adding sparkle to our special moments for centuries. This sparkling wine, born from a unique terroir and craftsmanship, is prized for its finesse and complexity. Follow our guide to discover everything there is to know about AOC Champagne wines, from their history to terroir and grape varieties. We also provide tips on pairing champagne with food, whether blanc de blancs, blanc de noirs, blend, or rosé.

What Is the History of Champagne Vineyards?

Although grape cultivation in Champagne dates back to Roman times, the region has only been producing sparkling wines since the 17th century. It was Dom Pérignon, a monk from the Hautvillers Abbey, who pioneered the practice of blending and quickly pressing grapes. Champagne-making continued to evolve over three centuries until the "méthode champenoise" (with a second fermentation in the bottle) was perfected. By the 19th century, champagne had gained widespread fame both in France and abroad, becoming the ultimate festive drink.

Climate and Terroir of AOC Champagne

Climate

Located east of the Paris Basin, Champagne has a degraded oceanic climate with continental influences. Winters are cool, and summers mild with frequent, but not overly abundant, rainfall.

Soils

The Champagne vineyards are divided into four regions:

  • Montagne de Reims: Composed mainly of chalk, sand, clay, and limestone, this terroir is ideal for growing pinot noir.

  • Vallée de la Marne: Clay-limestone soils that are favorable for pinot meunier.

  • Côte des Blancs: Chalky and humid, this terroir is known for producing fine and mineral-rich champagnes, especially from chardonnay.

  • Côte des Bar: With a milder climate than the rest of the appellation, this terroir has marl, clay, and limestone soils.

Main Grape Varieties in AOC Champagne

AOC Champagne allows only three grape varieties: chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier. These can be used as single-varietal wines or blended together.

  • Chardonnay: A white grape variety known for its citrus, white fruit, and floral aromas. It brings freshness, finesse, and minerality to champagne.

  • Pinot Noir: Commonly grown in Champagne, it provides structure and aromas of red fruits, dried fruits, and spices.

  • Pinot Meunier: A lesser-known red variety, it adds roundness, softness, and delicate notes of ripe apple and mirabelle.

Styles of Different Champagnes

  • Traditional Brut Champagne (blended grapes): AOC Champagne is mainly made up of brut blends (of grapes and vintages). Its style varies greatly depending on the estate or champagne house that produces it.

  • Rosé Champagne: Unlike traditional rosé wines, rosé champagne is made with the same grape varieties as brut champagne, usually blended with red wine (from Champagne).

  • Blanc de Blancs Champagne: Made exclusively from chardonnay, it is known for its finesse, minerality, and freshness.

  • Blanc de Noirs Champagne: Typically made from pinot noir (vinified as white), it is more powerful and robust, developing aromas of stone fruits, dried fruits, and spices.

Best Food Pairings with Champagne

Here are some dish ideas to pair with a bottle of blanc de blancs Champagne made from chardonnay:

  • Oysters and seafood platter
  • Caviar
  • Scallop carpaccio

For a pairing with a blanc de noirs Champagne made from 100% pinot noir, consider:

  • Smoked salmon
  • Creamy poultry
  • Lobster or langoustine in Armorican sauce

Finally, if you're enjoying a rosé Champagne, here are a few recipe suggestions:

  • Red fruit charlotte
  • Mezze platters
  • Melon with cured ham