Welcome to a bubbly adventure through the enchanting world of Crémant wine! Nestled between the illustrious realms of Champagne and other sparkling sensations, Crémant thoroughly deserves its moment in the spotlight. In this effervescent journey, we'll dive into the captivating history of Crémant wine, how it’s developed an unrivalled popularity, its unique production locations, the delectable flavour profiles you can expect to adore when taking your first sip of one of our delightful Crémant wines. So, sit back, relax, and let's embark on this fizzy escapade together!
The tale of Crémant wine begins deep in the hallowed vineyards of France, where Crémant wine has been able to impress the masses and dazzling palates since the 19th century. Legend has it that these delightful bubbles were created out of a rebellion against the lord almighty Champagne. It is widely documented that French winemakers in the regions outside of Champagne wanted to produce their own sparkling wines using the traditional méthode champenoise, which resulted in the birth of what we now know of as Crémant. Today however, Crémant has soared to extreme new heights of popularity on the world stage, even in the shadows of champagne it has been able to consistently enchant wine lovers around the globe with its exquisite flavours and affordability. While we must admit, Champagne may be the superstar of sparkling wines, we do however believe that Crémant really holds its own, offering a more accessible and wallet-friendly option for celebrations, dinner parties, or simply to elevate everyday moments. In fact, Crémant's charm and success has since extended far beyond France's borders, with a growing presence in other countries such as Luxembourg (surprising, we know) and Spain.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Crémant lies in its geographical diversity. While Champagne hails from, well, Champagne of course, Crémant is however crafted in various regions across France and is not heavily restricted like its cousin Champagne. Each region that Crémant is now grown in benefits from unique terroirs and methods which allows for diversity and character to the wine, resulting in a captivating range of flavours and complexity. From the enchanting Loire Valley, renowned for its graceful Chenin Blanc and vivacious Cabernet Franc, to the captivating hills of Burgundy, home to delicate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Crémant has truly found and solidified its place in the hearts (and glasses) of wine lovers. But apart from geography, what truly sets Crémant apart from its sparkling cousin, Champagne? While both wines share many similarities, such as the traditional méthode champenoise and those delightful bubbles, there are a few key distinctions. First and foremost, Champagne primarily uses three grape varieties—Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier—while Crémant allows for a more diverse selection, embracing region-specific grapes. Secondly, Champagne often carries a higher price tag, while Crémant offers a sparkling alternative without breaking the bank.
Now, the exciting part, let's savour the flavour profiles of some of our most exciting Crémant wines, the perfect choices for any occasion. So, whether your taste buds revel in those vibrant citrus notes, lively red fruits, or elegant floral aromas, Crémant can offer a fountain of flavours enough to please even the most demanding of palates. For those of you that are drawn to crisp and refreshing bubbles, choose a Crémant from the Loire Valley. These wines boast zesty acidity, delicate floral nuances, and a tantalizing minerality that dances on the tongue. If you fancy a fruit-forward experience, head to Burgundy, where Crémant showcases the region's signature elegance with hints of apple, pear, and wild berries. Or let us do the hard work for you and suggest some of our most exciting Crémant wines below:
Crémant de Bourgogne Brut Blanc de Blancs
This Crémant de Bourgogne is brilliantly gold in colour and reveals a fine stream of delicate bubbles. The nose is subtle with notes of lemon zest. On the palate, there is a fine balance between fresh floral notes, and finesse of white fruit aromas. This Crémant has a beautiful length on the palate, whilst keeping the whole experience fresh and elegant.
Crémant D'Alsace Paul Mittnacht
This eponymous bottle of Cremant d’Alsace was named as a tribute to the former winemaking savant. With an elegant palate of peach, ripe apricot, white flowers and honeyed brioche, supported by a firm structure and creamy mouse, this sparkling wine does not do Paul Mittnacht a disservice, even if it doesn’t know any Iron Maiden songs!
Crémant De Loire Château Mauny Brut 2018
A captivating sparkling wine, offering a superb alternative to Champagne. Its pale yellow color with golden hints sets the stage for a refreshing and vibrant experience. Bright flavors of apples and grapefruit intertwine, complemented by subtle notes of honey, creating a harmonious and balanced taste. With a burst of energy and fruitiness, it finishes with a tight acidity, leaving a delightful and memorable impression. This sparkling wine showcases the best of the Loire region, making it a truly delightful choice for those seeking a refreshing and sophisticated wine experience.
As we bid adieu to our sparkling odyssey through the world of Crémant wine, let us raise our glasses to this delightful creation. With its rich history, soaring popularity, diverse production locations, and enchanting flavour profiles, Crémant has carved a well-deserved spot in the hearts of wine enthusiasts everywhere. Crémant Wines are jam packed with surprises and offer a large range of impressive styles and flavour profiles. Crémant is a true reflection of the global sparkling wine-making heritage and offers a unique taste experience that you don't want to miss. The Oddbins Crémant Wine range is certain to serve up something to complement your choices perfectly. Whether it's a grand celebration or a quiet evening at home, remember that Crémant is the perfect companion to add a touch of sparkle to life's cherished moments. Not sure which would best suit your palate or meal? Want to know the best Crémant Wine to give as a gift? Contact our helpful team for advice via Live Chat, e-mail or by calling 0800 328 23 23 for all the help you need. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for a bottle of bubbly, dare to be different, and let Crémant whisk you away on a journey of effervescent delight Cheers to Crémant—may its bubbles forever dance in our glasses and hearts!
