Champagne has long been one of the world’s favourite celebratory drinks, championed for its fine taste and luxury feel. While competition from Prosecco has been giving champagne a run for its money in recent years, for some the classics will always be the best. Read on to find out a little more about the history of this delightful bubbly beverage…
How it all began
Northeast France was first established as a wine-producing region by the Romans, who saw great potential in the area as a haven for vineyards. This early cultivation continued for centuries, and wine production became a Royal concern in 987, when wine from the region began to be displayed prominently at coronation banquets. Early on, champagne was unrecognisable to the modern palette; a pale, pink wine created with pinot noir, it had yet to emerge as the sparkling wine we know it as today.
How champagne got its sparkle
The ‘méthode champenoise’ which would later give the wine its special sparkle requires a second fermentation process after bottling, adding sugar and yeast before corking the bottle. Some of the best sparkling wine in the world will then be left for months or even years to improve in taste, after which the original cap is removed, and the final cork put in place, readying the bottles for sale. Champagne grew out of fierce competition between wine-growing regions. The Champenois looked on Burgundian wine production with envy and sought to create their own competitive variant. In addition, whilst French clientele favoured pale, still wines, the wine producers noticed a significant trend towards this delightfully bubbly wine amongst British clients, and this popularity soon grew and spread throughout the elite.
Evolution of Champagne
From the 19th century onwards, modern marketing tactics started to make big Champagne brands huge success stories in the wine world. Today, champagne is widely associated with celebration and a touch of luxury, with sales still through the roof and big names like Laurent Perrier, Moet et Chandon and Dom Perignon dominating the Champagne-loving scene.
Today, wine enthusiasts can enjoy plenty of delicious champagnes courtesy of Hamper Lounge, including Laurent Perrier Rose Champagne with delicious undertones of raspberry and redcurrant, and even a bottle of Dom Perignon Vintage Champagne. For wine lovers who want to try a little bit of everything, there’s the Champagne Classics gift box, including a bottle of Moet et Chandon, Bollinger Special Cuvee Brut, and Laurent Perrier Rose – meaning there’s never been a better time to send a great champagne-themed gift!
