Champagne is unique! Unique by its appellation, its terroir, its history, by its reputation and by how it has adapted through the centuries.
However underneath this apparent unity hides an unexpected diversity of wines. From bright, vigorous, tight and mineral Champagnes to round, rich and full-bodied ones – a world of cuvées takes shape from East to West, morning to evening, used in everything from aperitif to gastronomy.

Colour, attack, length, power, vinosity and bouquet are all elements that make up the identity of each cuvée. Each of these is a unique experiment linked back to the choice of the producer.

It is the result of many decisions: for who and why is this cuvée being made? What grape variety / grape varieties should be used? Should this plot of vineyard be used to produce a special cuvée? Should wood be used in the vinification? What sort of barrel should be used? Should it be a vintage? How much reserve wine should be added? How long should it have developing on the lees? Which cap should be used? How should the liqueur be made (de dosage and de tirage)? How much dosage should be added? The list is far from exhaustive…

If you immerse yourself in these many options, you will discover a passionate world, alive with possibilities.

Given that Champagne is a market of brands with strong identities, it is a wine where the creation of the cuvée lies exclusively on the hands of the producer, where the possibilities of each depend on the vineyards and the oenological techniques which are used, and it is equally about adapting to the evolution of the tastes of the markets. It is your expert knowledge that will enable the origin of this diversity of wine and the assets associated with the reputation of this appellation to be understood by your audience.

What is your teaching approach to the diversity of the wines of Champagne?

How to you teach it to your students?

You will find this theme of diversity throughout the questions and levels of the sixth edition of the European Champagne Ambassador’s Awards.