Why Champagne Is a Symbol of France and Which Ones You Must Try

What are the first synonyms that pop up in your head when you think about France?

It may not be in this order, but you most certainly thought of wine, romance, art, French cuisine, architecture, revolution.

And it’s true; they are all closely related to French history and culture. But when it comes to wine, France has been at the peak of the wine industry for centuries, providing us with some top-rated reds, whites, rosés but also sparkling wines.

Still, when it comes to the mysterious bubbles, France also uses the term Champagne which is known as a French symbol that no other country uses.

Therefore, here we will see why Champagne is a symbol of France and some Champagne wines you should definitely try. Let’s begin. 

Champagne; The French Symbol

Even though effervescence or carbonation has been noted by Roman and Ancient Greek writers, the cause of the mysterious bubbles wasn’t understood, and through time, people thought of it as the phases of the moon and good and evil spirits.

Still, in a large amount thanks to France, these bubbles became something a lot more in the wine industry. Sparkling wine as a term is also commonly referred to as champagne, but the EU countries legally reserve the champagne term for products produced exclusively in the Champagne region of France. 

It is viewed as the wine of celebration and happiness par excellence all over the globe. It is the perfect choice for all moments of success and celebration, both in love and in family life, professional achievements, and even in the world of sport. Furthermore, Champagne has inspired various painters, writers, musicians, photographers, and other artists, gaining an international reputation and popularity by portraying a particular image of France and the French art of living. The impressive Champagne is also a symbol of reconciliation.

Therefore, since one of the best French beautiful wines is most certainly the bubbly Champagne, let’s see three top-rated ones that will take your breath away. 

Champagne Agrapart Terroirs Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru

Made from Chardonnay grapes, the impressive Champagne Agrapart Terroirs Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is crafted with pure love by the Agrapart family, who have been producing fantastic Champagne for many years since Arthur Agrapart purchased the estate back in 1894. Luckily for you, the Fabrice and Pascal brothers are still producing Champagne, continuing the legacy that has existed for more than a century now.

Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs is made strictly from grand cru Chardonnay that comes from small plots of up to 40 years old vines in Oger, Oiry, Avize, and Cramant. It’s usually made of wines from two various vintages, and the older wine is aged in oak barrels which gives even more complexity and depth. After that, it’s aged for four years before being ready for release.

With tiny bubbles and exquisite aromas of toast, lemon zest, and baked apples, this beautiful Champagne is perfect for serving as an aperitif, or you can pair it with pork, seafood recipes, and soft and mild cheese.

Champagne Jacquesson Cuvee 744

Yet another impressive wine, the Champagne Jacquesson Cuvee 744, is made from a perfect blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier grapes, coming directly from the Champagne region.

The famous Champagne Jacquesson winery has become better and better in recent years and is now often ranked among the top producers of Champagne. The estate is in Dizy with vineyards in two main areas, the Côte des Blancs and the Grande Vallée de la Marne. Thanks to the Chiquet brothers and their philosophy of minimal dosage together with extended lees ageing to create a solid and impressive Champagnes, you can taste a Champagne that is a massive rival to some of the best in the region.

From grapefruit, lemon zest and subtle toasted wood to medium body and crisp acidity, this Champagne will provide you with great pleasure because of its fine bubbles. Champagne Jacquesson Cuvee 744 pairs perfectly with fish and seafood dishes, but you can also use it as an aperitif before you make your meal for your beloved family or friends.

Champagne Nicolas Maillart Rosé Grand Cru

Finally, but importantly, the Champagne Nicolas Maillart Rosé Grand Cru belongs to the Maillart family that has been producing wine since 1753. Believe it or not, it is incredible that Nicolas Maillart is actually the 9th generation to be part of the family business and produce high-quality Champagne.  

This beautiful wine is made from a wonderful blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay. Its fruit comes exceptionally as the finest 1er Crú and Grand Crú grapes that are hand-picked, and this Champagne has a beautiful salmon pink colour with an incredible bead that lasts.

The process is impressive since the bulk of vines is mid-slope planted and is favourable for harvesting in cool climates. These grapes go through 52 hours of maceration to create its excellent colour. The bottles are settled for a minimum of one year and disgorged before the release is made. You can enjoy the taste of this Champagne with berries but also some other red fruit, mild cheese, cooked salmon and steamed or fresh vegetables.