Understanding the Different Types of Champagne and their Taste

Champagne and their Taste

There's something about popping that cork and hearing the fizzing sound that makes champagne feel like a luxury beverage. But not all champagne is created equal. There are different types of champagne, each with its unique taste and characteristics. If you're a champagne beginner or just curious to know more about the different types and their taste, then you're in the right place. This blog post will guide you through the different champagne types and their taste nuances.

1. Non-Vintage Champagne

Non-vintage Champagne, also known as NV, is the most common and readily available of all champagnes. It's a blend of various grapes harvested from different years, ensuring a consistent taste every time you pop the cork. NV champagne has a fruity taste with hints of citrus, apples, and pears. It's a versatile champagne that pairs well with food or can be enjoyed on its own.

2. Vintage Champagne

Vintage champagne is made from grapes harvested from the same year and aged for a minimum of three years to develop character and complexity. Because of its exceptional quality and limited availability, it's more expensive than NV champagne. Vintage champagne has a toasty and complex taste with notes of honey and brioche. It pairs well with seafood, poultry, or cheese.

3. Rosé Champagne

Rosé Champagne gets its pinkish hue from the addition of a small percentage of still red wine to the champagne blend. It has a fruity taste that can range from strawberries to cherries and raspberries. The complexity of rosé champagne can vary depending on the method used to produce it. It pairs well with charcuterie or desserts like berry tarts.

4. Blanc de Blancs Champagne

Blanc de Blancs Champagne's name means "white of whites" and is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes. It has a crisp and citrusy taste that can range from green apples to lemon zest. Blanc de Blancs champagne is light and refreshing and pairs well with light appetizers, seafood, or goat cheese.

5. Blanc de Noirs Champagne

Blanc de Noirs Champagne is made from black grapes like Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier. The grape skins are quickly removed, so the wine doesn't get the red colour in it. It has a rich and complex taste with notes of red fruits and spices. Blanc de Noirs champagne pairs well with poultry, pork, and salty or savoury dishes.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, champagne is not only a fancy drink to celebrate special occasions but also a versatile drink that can be enjoyed with food or alone. The different champagne types offer distinct taste profiles that can appeal to all palates. Whether you prefer a crisp and citrusy taste or a rich and complex one, there's a champagne type for every mood and occasion. So next time you pop open a champagne bottle, pay attention to its type and savour its unique taste!