Parties such as weddings, birthdays and, by the way, the end of the year festivities, are usually marked by the popping bottles of bubbles. But, did you know that in the world of fizzy wines, Champagne and sparkling wine are not the same? Here we explain the difference.

Among wine lovers, there is a group of people who really like bubbles and therefore, never waste the opportunity to go in search of a very cold bottle. But what is it really called? Many times the word Champagne is used as an abbreviation to call sparkling wines in general (which is not unusual, considering that it is the most recognized sparkling wine in the world), however it is not the most precise term. To avoid confusions, here we explain what each one consists of.

Champagne

When we talk about Champagne, it refers to those white or rosé sparkling wines made specifically in the area of France called Champagne. This region, which is located in the north of the country, has a cold, rainy climate and also has calcareous soils: all this allows the grapes to show great acidity in their wines. Made from a mixture of different vintages of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier, Champagne stands out for its finesse and complexity in relation to other sparkling wines. This is because its vinification is carried out under the Traditional or Champenoise Method, that is, a process that includes a second fermentation that occurs inside the bottle, which gives the wine its unmistakable aromas of butter, toasted bread, brioche and creamy texture on the palate. Perfect to toast these dates.

Sparkling wine

When we say sparkling wine, it is to refer to fizzy wines in general. These can be made in any region of the world, with any grape variety, whether under the Traditional Method or the Charmat Method. What is the Charmat method? To obtain the bubbles, the base wine undergoes a second fermentation in stainless steel tanks, generally of quite a few liters (which is why it is a more economical process), to which after filtering, expedition liquor is added (a liquid with sugar that will dictate the name and sweetness of the final wine, for example, whether it is Brut or Demi-Sec). This is how wines are created that stand out for the characteristics of fresh grapes, aromatic intensity and less complexity on the palate. They are very easy to drink, refreshing wines, ideal to accompany appetizers or white meats.

While sparkling wines made under the Traditional or Champenoise Method, offer greater complexity and finer and more persistent bubbles. They are more elegant wines, which also have greater aging potential than sparkling wines made using the Charmat Method. Casillero Devil’s Collection Brut, it is a perfect candidate to accompany New Year’s or Christmas starters, such as an Avocado with Crab, Gratin Lobster, fresh goat cheeses and even desserts.