The process of making sparkling wine is believed to have stemmed from the Champagne village of Hautvillier when, in the 17th century, a monk named Dom Perignon began to experiment. After dedicating his life to getting rid of the bubbles, his studies ironically helped future generations craft the first Champagne. Since then, the name has become the most fiercely protected of all and as a result Champagne can only be made from vines grown on the chalky hillsides surrounding Reims, and Epernay and to the west in the Marne Valley. Only three grape varieties are permitted alongside adhering to strict production methods including a second fermentation in the bottle and minimum ageing. Chardonnay is usually grown in the Côte des Blancs, Pinot Noir in the Montagne de Reims and Pinot Meunier in the Vallee de la Marne. Read more…