How did champagne get its name?
The word "champagne" is originated from the Latin word "campania" and the French word "champagne". "Campania" means "nation" or "area", and "champagne" means "open field". The name "champagne" initially appears in files in the 12th century. It is thought that the first recorded use of the word "champagne" to refer to a specific red wine region remained in 1284, when the Pope offered theChampagne districtto the Count of Champagne.
The earliest recognized reference of champagne is from a Spanish file from 1497. The file refers to a white wine from the Spanish town of Sant Sadurn� d'Anoia called "vino de la communidad", which was made by sugarcoating and yeast to red wine that had actually been fermenting in barrels. This wine was then kept in underground cellars till it was prepared to drink.
The first recorded usage of the word "champagne" to refer to a specific white wine item was in 1662, when Dom P�rignon, a Benedictine monk, was acting as cellarer at the Abbey of Hautvillers. His task was to oversee the production of red wine, and he is credited with establishing the strategy of mixing various white wines to produce a more consistent product. He also started sugarcoating to the red wine to offset its natural bitterness, and he is thought to be the very first to utilize corks to bottle sparkling wine.
The Champagne region is situated in northeastern France, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) east of Paris. The area has a cool climate, which is necessary for the production of good shimmering wine. The grapes for Champagne are grown in chalky soil, which is likewise necessary for the wine's distinct flavor.
The Champagne region is divided into 5 sub-regions: the Montagne de Reims, the Vall�e de la Marne, the C�te des Blancs, the C�te des Bar, and the Aube. The best-known white wines originate from the first 3 of these sub-regions.
The Montagne de Reims is understood for its Pinot Noir grapes, which produce full-bodied wines. The Vall�e de la Marne is known for its Pinot Meunier grapes, which produce fruity red wines. The C�te des Blancs is known for its Chardonnay grapes, which produce light, crisp wines.
Champagne was first produced in the Champagne region in the early 1700s. The white wines were made in the m�thode champenoise, or Champagne approach, which involves a 2nd fermentation in the bottle. The bottles are kept upside down so that the sediments settle in the neck of the bottle. The bottles are then put in a cold chamber, or cr�merie, for at least six weeks so that the sediments can be removed.
The m�thode champenoise is a lengthy and costly procedure, which is why Champagne is normally more expensive than other types of champagne.
Many of the Champagne produced in the region is white, but a percentage of red Champagne is also made. click Champagne is typically intoxicated as an aperitif, or prior to a meal, however it can also be intoxicated with food.
Champagne is a popular choice for special celebrations, such as wedding events, anniversaries, and New Year's Eve. It is likewise frequently provided as a present.