Crémant

Crémant is a type of sparkling wine produced in specific regions of France and Luxembourg using the traditional method of secondary fermentation in the bottle. The term "Crémant" was originally used to designate sparkling wines with a lower carbon dioxide pressure, resulting in a creamy texture. However, since 1994, it has been used to refer to sparkling wines made outside the Champagne region but still adhering to strict production methods.

Production

Crémant is produced using the méthode traditionnelle, the same method used for Champagne. This involves a second fermentation in the bottle, which creates the bubbles. The process includes several steps:

• Primary Fermentation: The base wine is fermented.
• Blending: Different base wines may be blended to achieve the desired flavor profile.
• Bottling: The wine is bottled with a mixture of sugar and yeast to initiate the second fermentation.
• Aging: The wine is aged on its lees (dead yeast cells) for a minimum period, which varies by region.
• Riddling: The bottles are gradually tilted and rotated to collect the lees in the neck of the bottle.
• Disgorging: The lees are removed, and the bottle is sealed with a cork.

Regions

Crémant is produced in several regions, each with its own appellation:

• Crémant d'Alsace: Produced in the Alsace region, known for its aromatic and fruity profile.
• Crémant de Bourgogne: From the Burgundy region, often made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes.
• Crémant de Loire: Produced in the Loire Valley, known for its crisp and fresh character.
• Crémant de Limoux: From the Languedoc region, one of the oldest sparkling wine-producing areas.
• Crémant de Bordeaux: Produced in the Bordeaux region, often using a blend of local grape varieties.
• Crémant de Die: From the Rhône Valley, made primarily from the Clairette grape.
• Crémant du Jura: Produced in the Jura region, known for its unique and complex flavors.
• Crémant de Savoie: From the Savoie region, often made from local grape varieties like Jacquère and Altesse.
• Crémant de Luxembourg: Produced in Luxembourg, known for its elegant and refined style.

Characteristics

Crémant wines are known for their fine bubbles, balanced acidity, and diverse flavor profiles, which can range from fruity and floral to rich and toasty. The aging process on the lees contributes to the complexity and depth of the wine.

Serving

Crémant is typically served chilled, between 6-8°C (43-46°F). It can be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif or paired with a variety of foods, including seafood, poultry, and light desserts.

Related Pages

• Sparkling wine
• Champagne
• Méthode traditionnelle
• Alsace
• Burgundy
• Loire Valley
• Languedoc
• Bordeaux
• Rhône Valley
• Jura
• Savoie
• Luxembourg