Champagne & Sparkling Wine

What is the Difference Between Sparkling Wine and Champagne Wine?

You may be wondering if champagne and sparkling wine are the same things. The simple answer is that all champagnes are sparkling wines, but most sparkling wines aren't champagne. While this sounds confusing, it's actually pretty simple. Only sparkling wine grown and produced in the very specific winemaking region of Champagne in northern France can be called champagne. All other bubbles must be called sparkling wine.

How to Open Champagne Wines Properly

To open a bottle of champagne wine without causing a geyser, follow these steps:

• Chill the champagne to at least 45 degrees - warm wine has more pressure inside the bottle.
• Cut the foil to expose the cork and cage.
• Place a thin towel over the cage and cork.
• Hold the champagne wine bottle at a 45-degree angle and untwist the cage carefully. Discard the cage, then replace the towel.
• Twist the cork, not the bottle.
• As you turn the champagne wine bottle, slowly pull the cork away from the bottle until you hear a slight pop.

What Pairs Well with Sparkling Wine?

Many foods pair well with champagne and sparkling wine. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Caviar
• Fried foods such a fried chicken, potatoes and the aforementioned potato chips
• Creamy soups and sauces
• Mushrooms
• Seafood
• Strawberries
• Cheese, especially earthy and smooth cheeses such as baby swiss and Gruyere, Parmigiano-Reggiano and the trifecta of triple Crème, brie and Camembert