The History of Champagne
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It is the drink that is saved for celebrations and extravagant events, used to impress others and create an air of wealth. So, what exactly is champagne and where did this luxurious drink come from?
The Birthplace of Champagne
Of course, most people know that the Champagne drink comes from the Champagne region in
France. The fizzy wine was created by accident in the 17th century,
intended to be a competitor for the Burgundy wines that were popular at the
time. However, the grape farmers could not get the same level of fermentation
as Burgundy, due to the cooler climate. In the winter, the liquids just stopped
fermenting and then restarted again as the weather warmed up. This caused a
fizzier, gassier wine which led to many bottles exploding. The few bottles that
survived contained what we now recognize as Champagne.
The King of France was thought to be a huge fan of the sparkling wine and so it quickly
became a drink that was reserved for the rich, famous and regal.
Who is Dom Perignon?
A French monk who recognized the importance of the second fermentation period, Dom Perignon is generally recognized as being the founder of Champagne. At first, he tried to eliminate the bubbles caused by the second fermentation period in order to reduce the number of bottle explosions. At the same time, flat versions of the drink were being sold in England. Although the bottles with effervescence were thought to be faulty, the English loved them and would rejoice in the rare bubbles. In the end, Dom Perignon listened to the feedback and discovered how to create the sparkling drink that we know today.
Dom Perignon was also credited for being the first winemaker to use blue grapes in his
recipes. Many of the techniques he invented are still used in modern manufacture.
By the 18th century, the number of champagne houses in the region
has grown, with well known names such as Moet and Chandon, Tattinger and Louis
Roederer making liquids to rival the original.
Champagne Cocktails
Where there is an alcoholic beverage, there are cocktails to be made! The Kir Royale is one of the most famous, made with a small amount of crème de cassis added to a glass of champagne, it helps to create a slightly sweeter drink.
Wine glass
Microbadges
<p>The Kir Royal is a sophisticated, effervescent cocktail that is often associated with celebrations and special occasions. A sparkling variant of the classic Kir cocktail, which traditionally combines white wine with crème de cassis, the Kir Royal takes it up a notch by using Champagne instead of still wine.</p><p>This lends the drink a luxurious fizz and elevates its status. The flavor profile includes the sweet, rich berry essence of crème de cassis, which is beautifully balanced by the crisp, dry notes of the Champagne.</p><p>These simple yet elegant ingredients come together in a harmonious blend, typically presented in a wine glass to enhance the indulgent experience. The Kir Royal is truly a toast to simplicity and refinement in the cocktail world.</p>
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Ingredients
Method
How to make a Kir Royale
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- Add the crème de cassis to the bottom of the wine glass
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- Top up with champagne and serve
The Moet Margarita is a slightly more complicated cocktail with a real kick! Grand Marnier, Tequila, lime juice and sugar syrup are mixed with champagne for an interesting variation on the classic cocktail.
Cocktail glass
Microbadges
<p>The Moët Margarita is a luxurious and sophisticated variation of the classic Margarita cocktail. It combines the zesty and refreshing flavors of tequila and lime juice with the sweetness of orange liqueur and sugar syrup.</p><p>This cocktail is then elevated with the addition of Moët champagne, adding a touch of elegance and effervescence. The pinch of salt on the rim of the glass adds a hint of savory to balance out the sweetness and acidity of the other ingredients.</p><p>This cocktail is perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge in a luxurious twist on a beloved classic.</p>
Ingredients
Method
How to make a Moët Margarita
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- Moisten the rim of a cocktail glass and roll it in salt
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- Add all ingredients except the champagne to a cocktail shaker with ice
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- Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
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- Strain into your salt-rimmed cocktail glass, then top up with champagne
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- Garnish with a lime wheel and serve
If neither of those cocktails tickle your fancy, why not try a French 75? Lemon juice, gin and sugar syrup add a delightful twist to your sparkling wine.
Champagne glass
Microbadges
<p>The French 75 is a classic cocktail believed to have originated in Paris during World War I. Its name is derived from the French 75mm field gun used in the war.</p><p>This elegant drink has a balanced and refreshing flavor profile, with the tartness of lemon juice and sweetness of sugar syrup complementing the juniper notes of gin. The addition of champagne adds a touch of effervescence and sophistication to the drink.</p><p>The French 75 is typically served in a champagne flute and garnished with a lemon twist. It is a popular choice for celebrations and special occasions, and is often considered the perfect cocktail to transition from aperitif to dinner.</p>
Ingredients
Method
How to make a French 75
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- Stir the sugar syrup, lemon juice and gin into an ice-filled mixing glass
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- Strain into a champagne flute and top up with champagne
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- Garnish with a lemon slice and serve
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