Champagne is France's most famous sparkling wine region, known for traditional-method wines made primarily from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier.
Beginner-friendly guides designed to help you understand wine with confidence.
Champagne is a cool-climate region in north-east France producing some of the world’s most famous bottle-fermented sparkling wines. But Champagne is not a single style—it’s a system built on three grapes, key styles and a patchwork of vineyard areas that each taste different.
The best wine with cheese depends on the style of cheese, but Champagne, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are among the most versatile choices. Match the wine's body and acidity to the cheese's richness for the most balanced pairing.
Off-dry Riesling is the best all-round wine for spicy food because its refreshing acidity and gentle sweetness help balance chilli heat while complementing aromatic flavours. Gewürztraminer and sparkling wine are excellent alternatives.
There isn’t a single “best” wine with salmon, but Pinot Noir is often considered the most versatile overall choice thanks to its bright acidity, silky tannins and delicate red fruit. For sashimi, choose dry Riesling or Champagne. For grilled salmon, Chardonnay and Gamay are excellent alternatives.
Chardonnay is a white grape known for apple, citrus and peach flavours. Depending on winemaking choices, it can also show buttery notes and vanilla. It is famous in Burgundy, Champagne, California and Australia, and is loved for its range from crisp and refreshing to rich and creamy.
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