Sparkling :Traditional MethodPosted on 20th February 2024

The world of sparkling wines is a realm of effervescence, celebration, and elegance. Among the various production methods and styles, the traditional method stands out as a true artisanal approach, giving rise to some of the finest sparkling wines globally, which we’ll be focusing on in this blog post.

What is the Traditional Method ?

At the heart of exceptional sparkling wines lies the traditional method, also known as “méthode traditionnelle” or “méthode champenoise”. This labour-intensive process involves a secondary fermentation that occurs within the bottle, giving the wine its distinct, finer bubbles. The journey begins with still wine, often a blend of multiple grape varieties as per the region’s rules, which is then bottled with a mixture of yeast and sugar, triggering the secondary fermentation. This transformative process unfolds over months or even years, imparting complexity and nuance to the final product.

Champagne:The Epitome of Elegance

It’s hard to talk about sparkling wines without mentioning the ubiquitous Champagne, supreme ruler of the category. Hailing from the eponymous region in north-eastern France, Champagne has become synonymous with luxury and celebration. The region's unique terroir, characterized by cool climate and chalky soils, imparts distinct characteristics to the only 3 grapes allowed which are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Typically a blend of all 3, Blanc de Blancs would mean it’s 100% Chardonnay, and a Blanc de Noirs would be 100% Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier.

The meticulous production standards set by the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) ensure that only wines adhering to the traditional method and a whole raft of stringent rules and regulations can bear the prestigious Champagne label. The iconic chalk cellars of Reims and Épernay house thousands of bottles ageing gracefully, a testament to the craftsmanship and time-intensive dedication required to craft these exceptional wines.

Try :Bruno Paillard, Baron Fuenté

Crémant:A Hidden Gem

While Champagne basks in the limelight, French Crémant quietly and steadily captures wine drinkers’ attention with its affordability and diverse regional expressions. Crémant, meaning "creamy" in French, refers to sparkling wines produced outside the Champagne region but crafted using the traditional method.

From Alsace to Bourgogne and beyond, each of the 7 Crémant producing region offers a unique twist to the traditional method. Using grape varieties indigenous and well suited to the specific area such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Burgundy region, or Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle in Bordeaux, these sparkling gems showcase regional diversity and a more accessible price point than their Champagne counterparts.

Try :Cremant de Bourgogne Blanc & Rose, Cremant de Bordeaux

In the effervescent world of sparkling wines, the traditional method stands as benchmarks of quality, craftsmanship, and regional expression. Whether you're toasting a special occasion with a flute of Champagne or discovering Crémant, each sip unveils a story of tradition, dedication, and the artistry of winemaking. So, the next time you raise your glass of bubbly, remember that you're not just sipping a beverage; you're experiencing winemaking excellence. Cheers to the sparkling journey!