Semi-sweet champagne, what a taste. Brut - the noblest champagne

Oh, it's champagne! The drink of royalty and aristocrats. Subtle and sparkling, slightly intoxicating to the mind and awakening spiritual feelings. That's what this article is about!
The choice of champagne as a gift, at first glance, may seem like a simple matter, because champagne is sold in any store and is presented in a wide range. But this is only at first glance. If you delve into the topic of production, study the technology and the varietal component, then questions may arise about his choice. Thanks to a competent approach to choosing a gift, the result will not be long in coming. 13 sommelier tips will come in handy!

At the beginning of the article, I would like to say a few words about the fact that real great champagne is produced only on the unique chalk and limestone soils of the Champagne region. There are no such soils anywhere in the world! It is this drink that can bear the proud name of champagne, and everything else is inherently sparkling wine.

The classics of the genre are the key to success, or briefly about

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The main rule when buying champagne is knowledge of the method of its manufacture. A self-respecting manufacturer never violates the age-old traditions and classic technologies for the production of sparkling wine. Only the method of secondary fermentation in the bottle, with elements of manual labor of masters, called remuage and disgorging, can serve as a 100% guarantee of quality.

Real champagne is made only in the Champagne region. So it was many centuries ago, so it is, and so it will always be. The famous champagne is very expensive! Look for the name on the label « a sparkling wine » and remember that the price of a good sparkling wine starts from 600 rubles.

Champagne must have a minimum residual sugar content and be brut, or at least be dry. Blanc de Blanc is cool and means the white-on-white method, while Blanc de Noir refers to the method of making white champagne from red grapes with white flesh. Interesting, isn't it?

Note to the layman: No country in the world considers it permissible to write the word "champagne" on the label of its sparkling wine. The only exception is Russia.

"Bubbles" do not guarantee quality.

What should not be given?

When choosing champagne as a gift, do not stop your eyes on the goods located on the shelves at the so-called "eye level". Usually there is an economy segment product that is not suitable as a gift. Neither the shape of the bottle, nor the cork, nor the notorious bubbles in the drink serve as a guarantee of quality in this situation.

The donee, if desired, can buy it on his own. The category of such "sparkling wines" includes factories RISP, MKShV(Moscow city) DZIV(Derbent), some plants in St. Petersburg, Krasnodar Territory and others. The price of such drinks belongs to the budget category and does not exceed 200 rubles.

These sparkling wines undoubtedly can and should be consumed in a friendly company, during a wedding feast or a fun party. However, for a gift, they are too "weak" in their inner content, since they are made not according to the classical technology (secondary fermentation in a bottle), but the so-called acratophoric method (fermentation in a vat). It is unlikely that a bottle of such a drink will be able to please the hero of the occasion. But joy is the main goal of any gift.

Champagne or sparkling wine? Key Similarities

and differences

Wines are divided into still and sparkling. This law cannot be disputed. Champagne is nothing but sparkling wine. It is important to consider production technologies here. In addition to classic sparkling wines, you can find carbonated wine drinks on store shelves. A striking example of such a drink is the beloved "Bosco" at a price of 250 to 300 rubles (producing country - Lithuania, Russia, Italy).

Another example is the wonderful Lambrusco, which belongs to the category of pearl wines (producing country - Italy), the price varies from 250 to 800 rubles, depending on the manufacturer. Delicious and sweet, low-grade Lambrusco is liked by many young girls and women. But do not chase the low price - a good Lambrusco cannot be cheap!

Remember that neither Bosco nor Lambrusco are examples of sparkling wines and are produced using a completely different technology!

Read the label and back label carefully. Many manufacturers in the race for sales are cunning and write the following: labrusco, lambrusco. This is a so-called marketing ploy, it is not prosecuted by law. The main thing to remember is that this product has nothing to do with real Italian.

You can buy these wines in almost any store. It is likely that such a present is suitable for visiting or for a modest romantic date. It is better to refrain from handing such drinks to the hero of the day or a high-ranking official, so as not to get into a delicate situation.

Russia and its age-old traditions

Let's be patriots of our Fatherland and start our rating of champagne wines from a Russian manufacturer. Since pre-revolutionary times, Russian winemakers have been trying to produce worthy sparkling wines. Historical evidence of this is Prince Golitsyn, who is considered the founder and progenitor of the glorious Russian winemaking.

As a gift for a reasonable price, you can buy sparkling wine from a popular manufacturer "Abrau Durso". You should pay attention to his exposure. It is she who determines the final price of the goods. Choose vintage options in gift boxes. The price for 0.75 liters of goods is from 1,800 rubles. Do you think it's expensive? Actually it's worth it!

Factory New World produces classic, aged sparkling wines produced in compliance with all the rules. The product line is widely represented in the branded shops of the Crimean winemakers. Wine aging - from 9 months to 3 years, which significantly affects the price. Champagne can have a different sugar content, be white, pink and red. As a gift, only its seasoned versions are suitable. For such a gift, you will have to pay from 1,000 to 2,500 rubles.

With a competent approach, any buyer will be able to buy as a gift an excellent and high-quality "champagne" from TD "Fanagoria". For example, at a price of 500 rubles.

How much sugar should you put in?

Proper sparkling wine or, as we used to call it, champagne should be brut or dry. Only the most fermented sugar allows you to enjoy the true taste of the contents. The presence of sugar suggests that they may smooth out imperfections; such “champagne” does not leave a harmonious aftertaste.

Brut or dry is an ideal aperitif, but sweet or semi-sweet go only for dessert.

When choosing a gift, you should still take into account the preferences of the hero of the occasion. If a person does not like acidity, then it is better to present him with sweeter versions of sparkling wines. The best present will be the well-known Italian sparkling wines produced in the small province of Asti, which is geographically located in the world-famous Piedmont region. These sparkling wines are made from the famous Muscat grape variety. Thanks to him, they are so tasty and rich. Look for the letters DOCG on the front and back labels. Their presence suggests that you are holding true, sweet, nutmeg gold from Piedmont.

The best seller in this category is undoubtedly Italian sparkling wine. "Mondoro Asti". Many recognize him by the original bottle, which has a helical, spiral shape. The retail price for 0.75 liters is from 1,250 rubles. But do not confuse Asti with Mondoro Brut, as this is a completely different story.

Undoubtedly, for a sweet lover, a good gift will be « Asti Martini" And « Asti Cinzano». These drinks occupy the second and third places in the market for sales of sparkling sweet and semi-sweet wines, and are not much inferior in quality to their more expensive counterpart Mondoro. Their price on the shelf is approximately 850-900 rubles. These items are often discounted. Sparkling wine is sold in convenience stores and is a product of mass demand.

France - pathetic and expensive

Do you want to follow French fashion and be in trend, as modern youth say? Do you want to deliberately emphasize the significance of your gift and have a tidy sum of money? Then feel free to go to a wine boutique or look at the top shelves of reputable stores. In ordinary stores that are located in the courtyard and belong to the economy class category (for example, the Magnit chain of stores), such sparkling wines are not sold.

We are talking about France and its incomparable with any other champagne wines. The Champagne region is the best in the world and offers the buyer a choice of several categories of champagne. AOC category says that the wine is especially controlled by origin (literal translation: appellation original control). The other two categories are of higher quality, they are called Grand Cru And Premier Cru, respectively read as great and first.

An unmistakable gift option can be "The Widow Clicquot" And Moet and Chandon » . These trading houses are among the top five world brands. The price for 1 bottle of such champagne varies from 5,500 rubles and depends on the trade margin and design option (for example, an iron tube costs more).

Millesime champagne, which is made from the best grapes harvested by hand in one calendar year, will be a great gift for a sophisticated gourmet. Chic quality dictates the high price of such a drink. It can reach more than 10 thousand rubles. and even 20 thousand rubles. for 0.75 liters.

Famous Dom Perignon (Dom Perignon) the 2006 harvest is estimated at 18,000 rubles per 1 bottle.

There are also quite rare exclusive names of sparkling wines. awesome "Crystal" is every collector's dream. The minimum price of such liquid gold starts from 22,000 rubles.

Italy - sparkling traditions

One of the leaders in the supply of sparkling wines on the world market and a competitor to France is sunny Italy. The aforementioned region of Asti gives the world sparkling wines with a high content of natural sugar. To select the category of dry and brut, the well-known Prosecco produced from the grape variety of the same name. It has two quality categories - DOC And DOCG. Both categories indicate that the wine is especially controlled by origin, and the letter G indicates a higher quality assurance.

In addition to Prosecco, Italy is famous for other sparkling wines made from various varieties of red and white grapes. They are not particularly popular among consumers and will most likely be purchased only by special order in an online store or in a specialized wine boutique. Decent quality contains it is made in the Piedmont region from a rather rare variety of white Nebbiolo grapes. The price for 0.75 liters cannot be called budgetary - from 5,300 rubles.

Spain - quality in a glass

Every self-respecting country, one way or another, produces sparkling wines. Spain is known for its red tannin wines from the Rioja region. Not many buyers know that one of the best examples of sparkling wines is Spanish Kava. It comes in white or pink and combines the best traditions of champagne. Cava is produced using the traditional classical method and guarantees excellent quality at a reasonable price (compared to the Champagne region). Shelf price - from 700 rubles and more.

Sparkling wines of the New World

The countries of the New World include Chile, Australia, South Africa, Argentina. If we talk about Chile, then this country offers both white, rosé and red types of sparkling wines to the Russian market. Among others, you can find sweeter options.

For a lovely lady gift, you can choose Fresita, gift box sparkling rose, sweet, costing from 1,300 rubles per 0.75 liter.

For a drier option, opt for Conchay toro, « Sunrise» Sparkling Brut. Its price is quite budgetary and amounts to 600-650 rubles, and you don’t have to worry about the quality. Both options are presented in a gift box, which is very important for a gift.

Give high-quality alcohol, and let the donee be delighted!

Champagne is an obligatory and traditional attribute of any celebration or holiday. A wide range of sparkling wines available on the shelves of our stores allows each of us to choose a legendary holiday drink to suit our taste and budget. However, the bulk of the commercially available "champagne" is a drink made from the cheapest raw materials of dubious origin. The most that these drinks are capable of is not to pose a health hazard. There can be no talk of pleasure when using them. In addition, people who buy champagne only once a year (for the New Year) do not make the highest demands on it: to be cheaper, clapping like a cannon and foaming. It is this category of people that is the object of attention of charlatans who counterfeit wine and sell an infernal mixture of chemical powders in champagne bottles. An example of such gross fakes is pseudo-champagne Yves Roche (Yves Rocher), a carbonated mixture of alcohol, water and chemical powders. This potion does not contain a single drop of grape juice and its use is dangerous to your health.

How to be? How not to spoil your holiday? Where to buy good champagne or good wine? You can buy a good one in a hypermarket or in a wine boutique. Hypermarkets take volumes and try to conclude direct contracts with manufacturers or their official dealers, wine boutiques rely on the price of prestige, so they always work with trusted suppliers, but even at the same time, as a rule, exercising selective control. This does not mean that you cannot buy bad champagne in a hypermarket or boutique. You can. The point is different - along with the bad, there is also good, which cannot be said about other points of sale, to which standing champagne simply does not get.

Do not forget that the word "champagne" can only be used in relation to sparkling wine produced in France, in the province of Champagne. All other wines are called simply sparkling. In Germany and Austria, sparkling wines are called "sect", in Spain - "cava", in Italy - "spumante", in France - "champagne" (made in Champagne) and "cremant" (made in other French provinces).

How to choose champagne? Specialists would start choosing champagne not from the category “semi-sweet, semi-dry, brut”, but from looking on the label for an indication of the method of production - “classic” or “reservoir”. The most expensive and prestigious type of sparkling wines are wines made using classical technology. "Classic" is almost always made from local grapes. An experienced champagne maker does not need additional risks in the form of unknown qualities of imported raw materials.

The production of classic champagne begins with the blending of several different dry white wines, often from different vintages, to maintain consistent flavor and style year after year. A strictly defined amount of special champagne yeast and sugar liquor is added to this mixture, the mixture is bottled (scientifically it is called drawing) into bottles, corked with a temporary cork and placed in a cold cellar. Here, in bottles, the so-called secondary fermentation takes place slowly, over a period of one and a half months, and the carbon dioxide released in its process slowly dissolves in the wine. After the end of fermentation, the bottles are stacked for long-term (from 1.5 to 3 years) aging, during which the taste and aroma of the wine acquire the special tones of aged champagne. Then the accumulated sediment is removed from the bottles, a small amount of sugar liquor (it is called expeditionary) is added (for semi-dry and semi-sweet wines), the bottles are corked with a permanent cork, labels are applied, the bottle neck is wrapped in foil and the wine is sent for sale.

Champagne, obtained in the classical way, is characterized by a complex taste, a delicate unsurpassed bouquet and outstanding sparkling qualities. It is characterized by a very long, for several hours, release of very small bubbles that form a finely porous foam. This is how French champagne is made, which is considered the standard of grace and harmony. It was this technology that was introduced to the world by the monk Pierre Perignon, who remains in history the inventor of champagne. In the taste of the “classic”, in addition to light citrus and berry shades, floral, creamy, cheesy tones, the tone of sunflower, fresh white bread, violets, hazelnuts, notes of ginger or field herbs can be felt.

Classic champagne is considered the best. The complete opposite of it are carbonated, or, as they are also called, saturated wines, that is, ordinary wines, forcibly saturated with carbon dioxide of artificial origin. They can be unmistakably recognized by the size of the bubbles - if the wine, after opening the bottle, throws large quickly rising bubbles onto the surface of the glass - this is it, cheap sparkling wine, a surrogate whose closest relative is lemonade, but not real champagne. By the way, anyone can make saturated wine on their own with the help of an ordinary household siphon. Carbonated wines do not have outstanding taste and aroma, which are entirely determined by the quality of the wine that went to carbonation. Saturated wines are quite cheap, their label will necessarily say “carbonated”, “saturated”, “effervescent” or “sparkling” (not to be confused with “sparkling”!). By the way, many buyers believe that most cheap sparkling wines are produced this way, but in fact, this is not the case.

The vast majority of wines presented in the sales areas are the result of a certain compromise between the two extremes described above, which is called "reservoir technology" or simply "reservoir". The difference between the "tank" and the "classic" is that the secondary fermentation takes place not in bottles, but in huge stainless steel tanks, which are called acratophores. The result is a sparkling wine that looks like a classic, but not in years, but in a few weeks. However, the taste and bouquet of these wines, no matter how hard the winemakers try, remains simpler - light fruity and citrus shades, tones of lemon, grapefruit, white currant, sunflower tones and fresh milk. A bad "reservoir", made carelessly or with violations of technology, may differ in a pronounced yeasty tone, which, of course, does not do honor to champagne.

Distinguishing the "classics" is very simple. On the label of domestic champagne produced according to the classical technology, it will definitely say “Classic” or “Aged”, on imported - “Metodo Classico”, “Methode cap Classique” or something similar, and the price tag will start from 450-500 rubles per bottle. All other sparkling wines, on which there are no such inscriptions, are tank wines. But that doesn't mean they are bad at all. On the contrary, many examples of wines in this category are widely known for their high quality. And only true experts are able to distinguish such a "reservoir" from the elite brands of "classics". Basically, these are wines produced directly in the grape growing regions - in the south of Russia, in the Crimea, as well as in France, Italy, and other wine-growing countries.

Thus, the choice of champagne begins with the method of production - "classic" or "reservoir". And then we decide which is better - semi-sweet, semi-dry, dry or brut.

By the way, what do you choose? Semi-sweet, semi-dry, dry or brut? The opinion of experts is as follows: it is best to open a feast with sparkling wine with a low sugar content, brut or dry, which is an excellent aperitif. Such a wine will not muffle the taste sensations either from the on-duty “Olivier”, or from king prawns garnished with salmon caviar and mascarpone cheese, as semi-sweet or sweet champagne will surely do.

Semi-dry is a good compromise. Semi-dry is suitable for lovers of semi-sweet, and for fans of brut. Well, semi-sweet is perfect for light desserts, it can be opened closer to the night and served with a cake when the Olivier has already been eaten, but the soul still needs a holiday.

So, summarizing the above, we postulate:

• Buy champagne in a hypermarket or wine boutique.
• Choose champagne without haste, surveying the entire range.
• Brut or dry - for drinking under the Chimes. Semi-dry - to the dishes of the festive table. We choose semi-sweet champagne for dessert.
• If you choose expensive champagne, take the "classic".
• If, after taking the bottle, you find on the label the inscription “carbonated”, “saturated”, “effervescent” or “sparkling” (not to be confused with “sparkling”!), put the wine back. Read the description of the wine on the back label (back label). The description written in small-small print according to the rules of trade is always given in Russian, and if you hold carbonated wine in your hands, this will be indicated on the counter-label by one of the four terms above.
• If the bottle says “Champagne” or “Sparkling wine”, but does not say “Classic”, “Aged” or foreign analogues of these terms, then you have a wine produced by a tank method.

The most important criterion determining the correct choice of champagne is the name of the manufacturer. The most famous Russian companies today:
1. OJSC Kornet. Founded in 1942. (Moscow) The firm was awarded the Grand Prix and gold and silver medals.
2. CJSC "Agrofirma Abrau-Durso". Founded in 1870. Currently, it produces a very worthy "reservoir" under the brands "Russian Champagne Abrau-Durso" and "ABRAU", as well as a magnificent "classic" under the brands Millezim, Imperial, Dravigny.
3. JSC "Moscow Plant of Champagne Wines" (MKSHV). Founded in 1980. Awarded with gold and silver medals.
4. RISP LLC. (Moscow) The enterprise was founded in 1994 on the production facilities of OAO MKSHV. In less than five years of its existence, it has been awarded 4 gold and 12 silver medals.
5. CJSC "Sparkling wines". It was founded in 1945 in Leningrad on the basis of the 5th marmalade factory and the fruit water plant.

Of the Russian producers, it is also worth highlighting: JSC Tsimlyansk Wines. The best brands: "Onegin", "Victory Bouquet", "Tsimlyansk sparkling wine prepared in the old Cossack way." "Millstream - Black Sea wines" (champagne "South Russian"). Fanagoria (brands Fanagoria, NR, Madame Pompadour). "Kuban-Vino" (brands "Chateau Tamagne Reserve", "Chateau Tamagne"). Quite good champagne is also produced by the Myskhako agricultural company. In Crimea, the Novy Svet factory, founded by Prince Lev Golitsyn and bringing Russia the first Grand Prix back in 1900, currently produces breathtaking quality champagne wines under the brands Coronation, Paradisio, Brut Cuvée and Novy light".

Speaking of the quality of domestic sparkling wines, regularly challenged by high professionals from among young people who have completed short-term sommelier courses abroad: along with France, Russia is the owner of Grand Prix cups for champagne wines. The quality of the best samples of Russian champagne has been repeatedly confirmed at the highest international level. . And by the way, not all French champagne can be considered a reference.

There are more than 120 champagne companies in France, and only 16 of them are highly ranked in the world. Among the most famous French companies specializing in the production of champagne are, first of all, Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, Louis Roederer, Mumm, Laurent-Perrier, Ruinart, whose share is Russian champagne market exceeds 95%. If you prefer French champagne, then you may be interested in: Special - Cuvee special or Prestigious - Cuvee de pretige. These champagne wines are made from the best grape varieties, carefully adhere to the technological process and put a mark on the year of release. There is also a separate one, according to which types of champagne are distinguished depending on the grape variety, sugar content, crop year and characteristics of the drink production.

The most famous brands of champagne:
1. Widow Clicquot (Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin)
2. Moet and Chandon (Moët & Chandon)
3. Dom Pérignon
4. Louis Roederer
5. Piper-Heidsieck
6. Mumm (G.H. Mumm)
7. Circle (Krug)
8. Paul Roger
9. Bollinger
10. Salon

But if the above Top 10 is more likely not a “table of ranks”, but “everyone knows (or should know) them”, then the prestige rating (of flavor and aromatic qualities) may be somewhat different. The most prestigious champagne wines: Dom Pérignon, Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Champagne Armand de Brignac (Armand de Brignac, colloquially "Ace of Spades" (Ace of Spades)), Bolinger (Bollinger Champagne), Champagne Crystal (Crystal), Perrier Jouet and Krug champagne.

Of course, all brands of these famous champagne houses are real works of wine-making art, but the prices for high-quality French champagne are usually sky-high - such is the price of prestige. So, "Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame", depending on the year, can cost from 10-12 to 18-25 thousand rubles. In addition, there is hardly a professional in the world (with the exception, perhaps, of Veuve Clicquot tasters) who would distinguish these wines from the best examples of Abrau-Durso. At the same time, the above-mentioned masterpieces of Abrau-Durso will be an order of magnitude cheaper than elite French champagne. But, as they say, the choice is yours.

In addition to Russian and French sparkling wines, products of Italian winemakers are also presented on store shelves. Sparkling wines "Martini Asti" and "" enjoy special (and well-deserved) popularity among buyers. So "Martini Asti", distinguished by a harmonious sweet taste and inimitable nutmeg aroma, and "Mondoro Asti" - sparkling white wine in the original emerald bottle, have long and deservedly received flattering customer reviews and are an excellent alternative to expensive French champagne.

If you prefer domestic champagne, then in accordance with GOST 13918-88, depending on the method of manufacture and sugar concentration, they distinguish:

• "Soviet champagne collection" (aging for at least three years in a bottle, with a designation on the label, the year of champagne wine): brut, dry, semi-dry;
• "Soviet champagne": brut, dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet, sweet;
• "Soviet champagne of special names": dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet.

Soviet champagne can be made by three methods: classic bottle, reservoir or continuous reservoir.

Russian champagne is produced in accordance with GOST R 51165-98. The difference between Soviet and Russian champagne is that Russian champagne is produced only by the continuous tank method. Russian champagne is divided into brut, dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet, sweet. Russian champagne, depending on the exposure, is divided into

• Russian champagne without aging
• Aged Russian champagne - the aging time after the completion of the champagne process is at least 6 months.
• Russian collection champagne - the aging period is not less than 3 years in a bottle, it marks the year of champagne wine.

How to drink champagne

1. Champagne is supposed to be opened not with a loud pop, but with a quiet hiss. A quality drink should behave quietly and delicately.
2. Champagne should be poured two to three minutes after opening the bottle. It is believed that this will help you better appreciate the taste of the drink. Pour the champagne slowly, slightly tilting the bottle, trying to make the liquid flow along the wall of the glass - this will help reduce the amount of foam. It is customary to fill the glass three-quarters.
3. Sour champagne (dry or brut) is poured into tall elongated glasses with the romantic name "flute" (flute). Sweet champagne is poured into wide glasses that resemble a stemmed bowl. It is believed that the “right” glass will deliver champagne straight to the right taste buds and you will be able to fully experience its taste. Holding a glass of champagne should also be done in a special way. Some, drinking sparkling wine, hold a glass, clasping its upper part with their palms - as if they were drinking cognac. But, unlike cognac, which becomes more aromatic when slightly warmed by the warmth of the hand, champagne loses its taste and sparkling. Therefore, a glass of champagne must be held by the leg.
4. The bottle should lie so that the wine wets the cork, otherwise the drink will stop "playing". However, this applies only to champagne with a cork stopper.
5. Champagne is drunk both before meals (as an aperitif) and during meals - for main courses and dessert. Cheese, olives, seafood, white meat and game, fruit desserts, strawberries and, of course, classic pineapples are considered a good snack. But “snacking” champagne with chocolate is categorically not recommended.
6. To better appreciate the taste of champagne, before swallowing the drink, you need to savor it in your mouth for a few seconds.

Champagne is a symbol of aristocratic fun, a grandiose celebration. They are admonished by ocean liners when launching and celebrate the main stages of human life: birth, wedding, the onset of the New Year. The main thing is to remember the insidiousness of the traditional holiday drink. After all, champagne is often drunk at the beginning of the celebration, and then they drink other drinks. Carbon dioxide, which is contained in the "pop", increases the absorption of alcohol. Therefore, if possible, you should not mix strong alcohol with champagne, as well as other drinks. If you still have to break this iron rule, then you need to do this "without lowering the degree."

Of course, champagne wines are one of the most expensive categories of alcoholic beverages. And in the event that you want to try them, you have to choose a worthy option. For those who are not too well versed in the range of champagnes, this can be challenging.
The list below is a kind of reminder for champagne lovers.

Most people use the term “champagne” to include sparkling wines from other regions. In fact, it is fair to call “champagne” only drinks from the Champagne region of France.
Often, when people talk about “champagne” wines that are not related to the Champagne region, they mean sparkling wines made according to the “champagne method” (Méthode Champenoise).

Names of champagnes

Champagne producers tend to produce more than one brand: they are differentiated by cost and style. For example, the world-famous vintage premium brand Dom Perignon (Dom Perignon) is produced by Moët et Chandon (Moet e Chandon), the same house that produces the quite ordinary White Star and the American sparkling wine Domaine Chandon, which is made using the champagne method, but is not champagne.
Within the brand, various types are created, differing from each other in belonging to a particular crop (vintage or single), sugar content (for example, brut) and the types of grapes used in production (for example, blanc de blancs (blanc de blancs) or pink) .
So,

• AR Lenoble (A.R. Lenoble)
  AR Lenoble produces relatively inexpensive champagnes with fairly high ratings. The line contains both single and vintage drinks, there are pink versions and banc de blanc.
  What to try: Try the Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru, which is made from Chardonnay. This champagne costs around $35 and usually has good reviews from critics.
• Circle
  Krug is the name of the most respected champagne producer in France. This brand of champagne belongs to the top brands and is distinguished by its high cost. For example, one of the Krug champagnes is included in the Forbes list of the most expensive champagnes: the cost of a bottle of this producer Clos du Mesnil Blanc de Blancs in 1975 is $750.
  What to try: If you decide to celebrate in full, a relatively inexpensive option is the Krug NV (non-vintage) Grand Cuveé for just under $200. This expensive wine has the characteristic features of champagne: biscuit aroma, delicate and fresh bubbles.
• Moët et Chandon

  This champagne name is best known for its Dom Pérignon brand. Dom Pérignon are vintage champagne wines that are produced only in those years when the vintages are recognized as good or great. In the mainstream segment, Moet et Chandon produces White Star and NV (non-vintage) champagnes.
  What to try: if you really want to try Dom Pérignon but are on a tight budget, keep in mind that different vintages have different prices: good vintages are cheaper than great ones. For example, Dom Pérignon 1998 costs from $150, while the 1996 vintage costs $350.
  

• salon
  Salon is a small manufacturer with a focus on quality. Salon produces exclusively vintage wines from white grape varieties (blanc de blancs).
  What to try: The most famous vintage is 1997. The cost of one bottle starts from $ 250 of the manufacturer. But the harvest of 1996 is no longer so valuable. A bottle of this wine will cost you only $30 per bottle.
• Veuve Clicquot (Veuve Clicquot)
  
  The name "Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin" is another of the most famous brands of French champagne producers. Veuve Clicquot is known for her relatively affordable and high-quality Yellow Labels, as well as her premium line of La Grande Dame wines, which are only made in good and great years.
  What to try:“Yellow Label NV Brut” is a very worthy drink that combines the highest level of taste and not too high cost (for champagne). The cost of this drink is about $50.
• Louis Roederer (Louis Roederer)
  This producer is known for the names of their expensive vintage wines "Cristal". However, producer Louis Roederer also makes affordable wines such as NV Brut and NV Rosé (about $50)
  What to try:"Louis Roederer Brut Rosé" 2004 - a great option for a first acquaintance with excellent high-end rosé champagne. Here - flowers, caramel and notes of fried wheat bread. Cost of pleasure: about $65.
• Perrier Jouët (Perrier Jouet)
  Perrior Jouët is a producer known for its Belle Epoque Cuvée (bottled in a floral design) and Fleur de Champagne vintages. The lines also include pink, NV (non-vintage) and blanc de blanc.
  What to try: A very worthy option that will allow you to get acquainted with the wines of this manufacturer is “Perrier Jouët NV Grand Brut”. This drink has good expert ratings, and its cost is about $45. A bottle of this drink is in no way inferior to its contents in its appearance, and the wine itself will not disappoint you.
• Bollinger (Bollinger)
  
  Bollinger is a heritage of France. While the main producers of champagne fell under the influence of large corporations, Bollinger retains its independence and is still managed by the descendants of the family that created this brand.
  Bollinger offers both affordable NV wines and premium vintages (such as Vieille Vignes Françaises blanc de noirs).
  What to try: Bollinger Champagne Special Cuvée with the aroma of baked apples and orange blossoms. Cost from $80 per bottle.

According to the results of the study of tasters, the champagne “Heritage of the master. Lev Golitsyn ”- according to the results of the examination, it scored 85 points. Bourgeois is in second place with 80 points, Abrau-Durso is the third with 77 points.

“The examination showed that the tested samples of champagne are not counterfeit, as they meet the requirements of the standard specified in the label in terms of quality. The markings also correspond to the name. Four out of six samples have good organoleptic properties, and all wines can be considered safe.”

To distinguish one drink from another, look for the corresponding inscriptions on the labels.

Sparkling wine - means that you are holding wine naturally saturated with gas.

- "Wine drink", "Carbonated drink", "Champagne sparkling" and their derivatives - means that this wine is produced using a cheaper technology, when bubbles are obtained by injecting carbon dioxide into the bottle.

The GOST marking, of course, is a good guide, which means that the drink is prepared in accordance with the interstate standard using the traditional reservoir method.

According to the results of a study by Roskachestvo, in a quarter of cases, wine artificially saturated with gases is sold under the guise of real sparkling wine.

It's not against the law at this time and doesn't have to be labeled, but non-natural gases can make you feel bad.

That is why last year Roskachestvo carried out an examination, according to the results of which 10 samples of semi-sweet sparkling wines made using the Charmat method received the Quality Mark.

If you have not yet decided which champagne to put on the table, you can choose a drink from this dozen:

The price of champagne on the store shelf most often starts at 3,000 rubles, and you can find real champagne for less money on a promotion or during sales. You can safely buy sparkling wines in the region of 500 rubles, and I would not recommend going below 200 rubles per bottle - the chance of running into low-quality products is too high. It is worth noting that now the vast majority of sparkling wines are produced correctly: not artisanal and without falsifications, so it is unlikely to buy a fake in a decent store.

“In each batch of sparkling wine, 2-3% of the bottles, for whatever reason, usually reach the consumer of poor quality.

Perhaps a separate bottle was frozen, this is especially true now, in December, - then there will be a violation of acidity and precipitation of cream of tartar.

Perhaps the quality of the capping turned out to be poor, a bad cork. There is no clear answer as to what exactly happened; you need to look at the path and history of each bottle. But things at the level of "pleasant - unpleasant" can be felt by any person.

If you open champagne, and it smells like rotten apples, then there are no comments. Sparkling wine should have a neat, clean, fresh fruity tone, without extraneous shades, ”advises leading Russian wine critic Denis Rudenko.

Champagne is an indispensable attribute of the festive table. Therefore, the question of which sparkling wine to choose is always important. Buy Russian champagne or buy produced in Europe - it depends on the individual preferences of the person himself.

Champagne rating

Good champagne has always been highly valued. The rating of sparkling wines includes drinks with a variety of tastes and aromas:

1. Sparkling alcohol brand Philipponnat Clos des Goisses Brut 2004 costs about 11 thousand rubles. It is made from a single grape variety and has lemon, pear, nut, and mint flavors.
2. Bruno Paillard Extra Brut N.P.U. (Nec Plus Ultra) 2003 (12 thousand rubles) - wine with a taste of honey, which has a fresh, bright, memorable aroma.
3. Clos Lanson Blanc de Blancs Brut 2006 (13 thousand rubles) - wine from grapes harvested in the suburbs of Reims. Complex mineral shades and fruits are guessed in the taste.
4. Louis Roederer Cristal 2009 (15 thousand rubles) is made from 2 grape varieties according to the principles of biodynamics, which is a mixture of organic products and esoteric techniques. The drink is characterized by the softness and tenderness of the bubbles.
5. Taittinger Collection Champagne 2008 (16 thousand rubles) is a wine made only from Chardonnay. The light-tasting alcohol is bottled by Brazilian photographer Salgado.
6. Dom Pérignon Rosé (22 thousand rubles) has a complex, multifaceted taste. Champagne seems to have been aged for many years, although it was only made in 2005.
7. Piper-Heidsieck Rare Rosé 2007 (29 thousand rubles) has a spicy taste, strawberry aroma and a beautiful pomegranate hue.
8. Salon Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs Brut 2002 (30 thousand rubles) has a subtle, but at the same time rich taste and floral scent.
9. Krug Clos du Mesnil 2002 (60 thousand rubles) is also made from Chardonnay, so the taste of the drink is complex, you can feel spices and citrus fruits in the aroma.
10. Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Françaises 2002 (70 thousand rubles) is made from Pinot Noir, which was collected from the oldest vines. On the palate you can find notes of different fruits, flowers and even smoke.

It is impossible to determine the most delicious champagne, because each of them has its own amazing properties.

The best champagne in Russia

Sweet sparkling wine has always enjoyed recognition among the Russian consumer.

The most popular is Abrau-Dyurso, which is produced by domestic factories. Sparkling drinks from the Italian manufacturer Bosca are highly valued. One of the best sparkling wines is the Pinot Noir brand, which is produced by the Crimean company Novy Svet.

A rich fruity palette of taste in the Italian sparkling wine Asti. The domestic buyer appreciated it, since the alcohol of this brand has high sales levels.

Classic Soviet champagne is considered to be of higher quality compared to light sparkling wines, because. it is produced in accordance with the standards of exemplary winemaking.

For the holidays, Russians prefer to take Brut champagne, which contains a minimum amount of sugar (up to 1.5%). It is a good addition to the table with salads, meat dishes and cuts. Whereas semi-sweet wine is often bought in addition to desserts and fruits.

How to choose champagne

The choice of champagne often depends on how much money the buyer is willing to pay for it. Among the budget options, you can find high-quality wine that will delight your taste. To do this, you should carefully consider the buying process.

It should be done only in large specialized or chain stores. If the price of a drink that is famous for its quality and cost suddenly turns out to be low, this may become a reason for suspicion of its quality.

On the territory of Russia, champagne is produced only according to the norms of the state standard, so the letters GOST and the numbers 5116 will indicate that the wine has passed the necessary checks.

The label on the bottle should be printed on good paper and glued evenly. The content should provide information about the manufacturer, the expiration date of alcohol and the place of its bottling. If the etiquette has the inscription “seasoned”, then this indicates that the champagne has been infused for at least 3 years before being put on the shelf.

The inscription "carbonated wine" indicates that the carbon dioxide in alcohol did not appear naturally, but was added artificially. Such a drink will lose bubbles after 15 minutes, while in real champagne they can last up to 24 hours.

Sparkling alcohol is produced in bottles with tinted glass. This is explained by the fact that the sun's rays reduce the taste of the alcoholic drink, and it becomes bitter. A light bottle is an indicator of a poor-quality product. If sediment has accumulated at the bottom of the container, then you should not buy such alcohol.

Before choosing a champagne, you should consider the top of the bottle. Plastic stoppers close products of medium and low quality. It is better to look for a bottle with a cork stopper.

Compliance with the temperature, humidity, position of the bottle is a guarantee that its contents will retain their taste properties. Even a high-quality product can become unusable if store employees have ignored the rules for storing it.

How to use

Before serving a bottle of champagne to the table, it should be cooled to + 9 ... + 10ºС. If the temperature is lower, then you will not be able to taste the taste and aroma of sparkling wine.

Champagne is often placed on the table in special buckets filled with ice cubes. You can't shake the bottle. When opening, it should be held at an angle of 45º. It is not the cork that should be twisted, but the container itself. If you follow the technique, then the cork will come out gently. Loud pops do not indicate the skill of the person who opened the champagne.

Glasses are filled slowly, letting a trickle down the wall. If you pour champagne directly to the bottom, then a large amount of foam will appear, which will not fall off quickly. The wine is poured in 2 runs, because after the first foam should settle. When properly filled, the liquid should occupy 3/4 of the glass.

Hold the glass should be by the leg, because. the contact of the top of the glass with the palm will heat its contents, which will affect the taste of the drink.

They drink sparkling wines in sips, after examining the game of bubbles and enjoying the aroma. You can use them both before meals and during meals.

Snacks served with this type of alcohol can be very different. Caviar sandwiches, cheeses, light salads, meat dishes of various types, fruits - this is an incomplete list of what can be offered with real champagne.

The consequences of drinking sparkling alcohol depend on what kind of champagne and how much was drunk. Often, headaches haunt a person after glasses of sweet semi-dry. The sugar content in it is higher, so you can drink this wine several times more than dry wine.