Difference between champagne and sparkling wine: simply explained

The difference between champagne and sparkling wine can be explained on the basis of a few points. There are three important differentiators between the two alcoholic beverages.

Three differences between sparkling wine and champagne

Sparkling wine and champagne differ in production, fermentation and grape variety.

• Production: Champagne may only come from Champagne, the northernmost wine-growing region in France. The production takes place according to strict rules such as that the bottle must be closed with a natural cork. All other sparkling wines that meet the requirements, but are not produced in champagne, may not be called champagne, as this name is protected in connection with the place.
• Fermentation: The sparkling wine and champagne are fermented in two steps. In the case of champagne, however, the second fermentation process must be in the bottle, which is followed by at least 15 months of aging. Sparkling wine usually matures in large tanks for nine months and does not necessarily have to undergo secondary fermentation in the bottle.
• Grape variety In the production of champagne, only the grape varieties Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. These have to be harvested by hand. When producing sparkling wine, winegrowers have a much greater choice of grape varieties.

Not only the difference between sparkling wine and champagne is interesting. You should also know the quality levels of wine.