The Champagne Region of France
This region is made famous by the wine, which carries the same name. It is a sparkling white, which is created due to the fact that the climate in this region is cooler and has a shorter growing season. This area is divided into three main parts the Cote des Blancs, the Vallee de la Marne and the Montagne de Reims. While there are other zones in this region these are the three main producers. The region is located near the Belgian border approximately 100 miles to the northeast of Paris.
There are over 75,000 acres of producing vineyards. The soil is chalky allowing for both natural moisture and drainage. It is one of the perfect soils for vines. The chalk allows the sunshine to be reflected upwards so the grapes receive ample sun. The soil does need some additions such as fertilizer. While the region does have world class producers there are some of these who surprisingly only work the land part time.
The climate holds temperatures that are just above the minimums necessary to be able to grow grapes. The best of the vineyards are situated so that they are clear of the frost but do not end up being burned by excessive heat.
For example, The Montagne de Reims vineyard is located on a forested plateau in the south of Reims. The soil is a crustaceous chalk, which is located beneath top soil. It produces Pinot Noir as wells as Grand and Premier Cru. This vineyard is one of the ones situated the farthest north giving it the ability to not only produce this variety but also some of the best champagne in the world.
The Vallee de la Marne is located along both of the River Marne banks. This region consists of south facing vineyards and produces Pinot Meunier. The Cote des Blancs is known for producing an excellent Chardonnay, which comes from the chalk, based subsoil.
The Cote de Sezanne, which is a relatively new Champagne producer, is a vineyard almost exclusively planted with Chardonnay and because of its southern location; the grapes are better able to ripen to their best.
The Aube is located in the southern most region of Champagne. Because of this, it is less well known its production is added to the blends from major champagne houses.
To create good champagne you must blend together the best from each of the type of grapes grown. There are three varieties, which are blended in order to create this delightful drink. The Pinot Meunier is the primary variety grown in Champagne it is the basis of all the high end product 40% of the regions acreage goes to this. Thirty five percent of the acreage goes to Pinot Noir. This adds the longevity needed for good champagne and the rest of the acreage for the most part is Chardonnay adding a light flavor to the produced champagne. It is considered to be one of the most historically important regions of France and produces wines each year, which are unmatched.
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