Champagne (the region)

Champagne is one of the world's most northerly wine regions, situated north-east of Paris. The cool climate and chalk soils make it difficult to ripen red grapes fully — but create ideal conditions for sparkling wine. The three main varieties are Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. Blanc de Blancs is made solely from Chardonnay; Blanc de Noirs solely from red grapes. Rosé may be blended or made by brief skin contact. The method of secondary fermentation in bottle creates the bubbles and gives wines their toasty, yeasty character. NV (non-vintage) Champagne is blended across multiple years to maintain a house's consistent style.