Champagne : The effervescence

The most significant difference between tasting still wines and Champagne is, of course, the presence of effervescence, or carbon dioxide. The effervescence of Champagne, far from being a mere visual feature, plays a pivotal role in shaping its structure, directly influencing the texture, balance, aroma, and overall perception of the wine.

Its impact on our tasting and sensory experience is considerable.

DEFINITION

Effervescence comes from the presence of dissolved CO2 in the wine. When the bottle is opened, the pressure drops sharply, causing the formation of visible bubbles on the liquid's surface. The size, number, speed of ascent, and persistence contribute to the sensory experience, texture, and aromatic perception of the Champagne.

HOW EFFERVESCENCE IS CREATED

The effervescence of Champagne is the result of a specific fermentation process called "bottle fermentation" or "méthode traditionnelle" (also known as méthode champenoise). During the bottling of the base wine (still wine), a small amount of sugar and yeast, called "liqueur de tirage," is added to the wine. The bottle is then hermetically sealed with a crown cap and laid horizontally in the cellars, where the second fermentation takes place. It is during this second fermentation that bubbles are formed. Indeed, the yeasts added to the "liqueur de tirage" consume the sugar, thus producing alcohol and CO2. As the bottle is sealed, the CO2 cannot escape and dissolves in the wine, creating increasing internal pressure. When the bottle is opened, the internal pressure decreases sharply, releasing the dissolved CO2 in the form of bubbles. These rise to the surface of the Champagne, creating the characteristic effervescence.

THE ROLE OF EFFERVESCENCE IN TASTING

Effervescence plays a crucial role in Champagne tasting and significantly impacts the overall sensory experience.

Here are the main roles of effervescence in Champagne tasting:

• Texture: The sensation associated with the effervescent gas is tactile, and effervescence gives Champagne a unique texture. Thanks to both a mechanical effect when the bubbles cling to the tongue's surface and a chemical effect when they burst and release their gas, carrying the aromas, effervescence alters our "mouthfeel," or texture.
• Balance: The structure balance of the Cuvée directly depends on effervescence. Bubbles can moderate the perception of other structural components like alcohol or residual sugars, creating a palate balance. For instance, a Champagne with a slightly higher dosage might not seem too sweet and be perceived as savory, thanks to the invigorating effect of the bubbles. In the case of acidity, effervescence attenuates its impression when it's high and amplifies it when it's low.
• Aroma: It's the effervescence that releases the wine's aromas. It acts as a vehicle for Champagne's aromas. The bubbles carry volatile aromatic compounds to the nose, unleashing a palette of aromas that combine with taste notes. This enhances the complexity and intensity of aromas perceived during tasting.
• Quality: Effervescence is often linked to Champagne's quality. Very fine bubbles are generally a sign of well-crafted and high-quality Champagne.

FOR EACH CHAMPAGNE, ITS FLUTE

Choosing the type of flute for Champagne tasting is another essential factor, varying from one Cuvée to another:

•      A straight and elegant flute for dynamic, tonic, airy, classic, and often young Champagnes.

•      A tulip-shaped flute for full-bodied wines, fairly structured and winey, like Millésimes, for instance.

•      A round flute for mature wines or Millesimes.

•      A wine glass for very winey and intense Champagnes, which must breathe because they are wines before being Champagne.

If this effervescent adventure has inspired you to delve into the world of Champagne, we invite you to discover our selection. Each bottle is the result of a passionate pursuit of perfection, where effervescence beautifully plays its role, blending tradition and innovation.

So don't wait any longer and let yourself be tempted by the most beautiful experience: taste, savor, and let each bubble tell you a story.

Click here to discover and purchase our Champagnes.

Cin cin et à votre santé !