The differences between Champagne and Crémant

Champagne and Crémant are two types of sparkling wines that are famous and highly appreciated worldwide. However, while they share several similarities, certain characteristics differentiate them. Let's take a closer look.

 

The common point : the production method

First of all, let's start with the main common point that unites champagne and crémant : their production method. Indeed, while one is called méthode champenoise  and the other is called méthode traditionnelle, they are indeed similar.

In fact, initially, only the term méthode champenoise was used, regardless of the type of wine.It was only since 1990 that the Champagne winemakers, keen to preserve this term for their unique bubbles, had its use banned in other regions of France. Since then, outside of Champagne, only the phrase  traditional method is allowed to be affixed to bottles.

For the rest, the two methods are completely identical! First, the grapes are pressed and the collected juice is put through an initial fermentation, usually in stainless steel tanks. Then, a liqueur de tirage (a liquid composed of wine, sugar, and yeast) is added to the wine to initiate a second fermentation, this time in the bottle.Finally, the bubbles are allowed  to slowly build in the cellar, and when the bottles are ready, a liqueur de dosage composed of wine and sugar is added, which will define the style of the sparkling wine (Extra Brut, Brut, etc.). Note that in the case of a zero dosage or a Brut Nature, no liqueur de dosage is added.

The only  difference between crémants and champagnes : the minimum aging time on racks, corresponding to the maturation period in the cellar. This resting time in the cellar must indeed be at least 15 months for a classic champagne compared to "only" 12 months for a crémant.

It should be noted, however, that for a vintage champagne, a minimum of 36 months of aging is required.

 

The differences between Crémant and Champagne

 

The production regions

Champagne is a full-fledged Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée, and a Champagne can therefore only come from its region. Conversely, crémants can be produced in almost all wine regions of France. Thus, there are crémants from Alsace, Loire, Bordeaux, Jura, Savoie, Southwest, or even from Limoux in Languedoc-Roussillon.

The grape varieties Except for rare exceptions, only 3 grape varieties are used to make champagne: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier. Conversely, depending on the crémant production region, many other varieties will be allowed. For example, a crémant from the Loire can be made with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir but also Chenin, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grolleau, or even Pineau d’Aunis (non-exhaustive list). A crémant from Jura can be produced with the grape varieties Poulsard, Trousseau, Savagnin, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, etc.

As you can see, the list of varieties is generally much more permissive on the crémant side !

 

The taste aspect

Although some crémants may come close to Champagne in terms of taste, the terroirs, the grape varieties used, and the aging time are all factors creating taste differences.

Thus, Champagne tends to express a higher acidity compared to most crémants, especially those from sunnier regions. Moreover, the grape varieties used will inevitably create differences during tasting.Finally, the aging time in the cellar for a champagne is generally longer than that of a crémant, the autolysis aromas (yeasts, brioche, toasted bread, butter, etc.) will generally be more pronounced in a champagne, promoting greater aromatic complexity.

Nevertheless, some crémants, such as the Brut Nature  from Domaine Barmès-Buecher, compete in elegance and finesse, to the point of sometimes being mistaken for champagne in a blind tasting!

In general, it is important to keep in mind that you may very well prefer the style of crémants from a region over Champagne ! This is primarily a matter of taste and therefore very personal !

 

The price

Finally, how can we not mention the most visible difference when purchasing your bottle: the price.

Indeed, although there are high-end crémants, Champagne falls into much higher price ranges than crémants.Many factors can explain this difference, such as the slightly longer resting time in Champagne, land prices, supply and demand, or even marketing.

If you would like a more detailed analysis on this topic, feel free to read our article on Champagne production !

 

Conclusion

As you may have understood from this reading, Champagne and Crémant are two types of sparkling wines with certain common points (production method) although many differences allow them to be characterized (origin, grape varieties, terroir, price, etc.).

Also, while it is important to understand what distinguishes them, one must first and foremost perceive their complementarity for the enthusiast! Indeed, both genres offer unique tasting experiences and cater to different occasions and budgets!

Now all you have to do is make your choice from the beautiful selection of sparkling wines from La Cave Éclairée !