What dictates the price of a Champagne?

Champagne is typically on the higher end of the alcohol pricing structure. But there are various factors which determine Champagne prices. Ideal Wine Company looks into the prices of Champagne.

Production method

One of the major differences between Champagne and Prosecco is the production method behind each drink. Both products are made via secondary fermentation, but Champagne utilises a more traditional method. This yields complex, high quality products which command high prices on the market, meaning that Champagnes are often more expensive than Prosecco.

Read the article in full with Ideal Wine Company.

What is the Difference Between Champagne and Prosecco?

Italian Prosecco is fast-becoming French Champagne’s main rival in the global luxury sparkling wine market. So which should you buy the next time you celebrate a special occasion? Ideal Wine Company considers the difference between Champagne and Prosecco.

Grapes varietals

Champagnes and Proseccos are created from different grapes. Champagnes are made and blended only from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes. Proseccos can be produced and blended from a wider variety of grapes, including Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Verdiso Bianchetta and Perara.

However, the little-known Glera grape, a highly-aromatic variety which dates back to Italy’s Roman period, tends to dominate Prosecco-making.

Production methods

By law, companies can only label their products ‘Champagne’ or ‘Prosecco’ if they use specific production methods. Champagne production is characterised by two fermentation processes; the first in an oak barrel, the second in a bottle.

Read this article in full at the Ideal Wine Company WordPress site.

Five Faux Pas YOU could be making with Champagne

Champagne is synonymous with luxury, making it the perfect celebratory drink. But you need to follow certain rules when consuming Champagne, to make the most of this decadent product. Ideal Wine Company reveals five faux pas’ to avoid when serving and drinking Champagne at your next celebration.

Storing in freezers

Chill your bottle before drinking Champagne, as this wine tastes best when served at around 6-8 degrees. If you’re pressed for time, you may be tempted to store your botte in the freezer to get it really cold, really quickly. This works for dry whites but if you leave Champagne in the freezer too long, the bottle could explode due to its high bubble-content.  Instead, chill in the fridge and serve with ice.

Opening quickly

It is vital that you learn how to open a bottle of Champagne properly. Many people feel tempted to open bottles quickly, so they can see the cork ‘pop’ out like it often does in movies. Unfortunately if you take this approach, the cork could zoom across the room and injure someone, with the drink shooting out of the bottle. Always open gently!

Read the full blog on the Ideal Wine Company Blog site.