23 Nov 2024
If you’re looking for the ultimate sparkling wine hack, look no further than Crémant.
This delightful bubbly is crafted using the same traditional method as Champagne, yet it hails from regions outside the famed Champagne area. The result? A sparkling wine that offers exceptional value without compromising on quality.
One of the most appealing aspects of Crémant is its price. While Champagne can often be a splurge, Crémant is typically priced between £9 and £18, making it an affordable luxury. For those who prefer organic and biodynamic options, there are excellent choices available at just £16.
Crémant boasts a rich history, with winemaking techniques perfected by the legendary Benedictine monk Dom Pérignon. This sparkling wine, whether white or rosé, carries the prestigious AOP (protected designation of origin) status, ensuring its quality and authenticity.
Why not surprise your guests with something a bit different? Pair a Crémant de Jura with Comté and Emmental cheeses for a delightful combination. Or, for a modern
twist, gift or serve the uniquely designed Carod Crémant de Die, “to die for” edition.
Crémant offers a diverse range of flavours and styles, thanks to the variety of regions and grapes used in its production. From the crisp and mineral notes of Crémant d’Alsace to the rich and fruity profiles of Crémant de Bordeaux, there’s a Crémant to suit every palate.
Crémant is produced across eight distinct AOPs (protected designation of origin) regions: Alsace, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Die, Jura, Limoux, Loire, and Savoie.
These regions collectively contribute to the impressive annual sales of 83.6 million bottles.
This figure represents 18 per cent of French sparkling wine sales worldwide and a significant 50 per cent of sales outside the Champagne region.
The total French production area dedicated to Crémant spans 11,722 hectares. This extensive cultivation results in an annual production quantity of 874,820 hectolitres for all regions combined. These numbers highlight the substantial role Crémant plays in the sparkling wine market, both domestically and internationally.
My top four recommendations for the festive season are:
Arthur Metz Crémant d’Alsace Organic & Bio (was £15, now £12 at Ocado)
Made with a blend of Auxerrois, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, and Riesling. This organic and biodynamic wine, with its golden hue, presents a delightful fruity and floral aromatic bouquet. The tasting experience is enriched by the presence of peach, apple, and citrus aromas, complemented by subtle roasted notes that provide a lingering finish. Perfect for festive occasions, this wine is best enjoyed as an apéritif.
Lacheteau Crémant de Loire (£16, or 2 for £21 at Ocado)
This wine showcases a vibrant style with notes of lemon, tangerine, and exotic fruits.
Made from a blend of 70 per cent Chenin Blanc, 20 per cent Cabernet Franc, and 10 per cent Chardonnay, it offers a straight and lively attack, well-structured with persistent effervescence. On the palate, you’ll find a touch of lemon and berry fruits, while the nose is greeted with aromas of lemon, tangerine, and exotic fruits. Perfectly suited for festive occasions, this wine pairs wonderfully with crab.
Calvet Crémant de Bordeaux Rosé (£12, or 2 for £20 at Ocado)
Calvet Crémant de Bordeaux Rosé is crafted using Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes from the heart of the Entre-deux-Mers. This soft and fruity sparkling rosé boasts an expressive bouquet of fresh raspberry and lime aromas. With a blend of 90 per cent Merlot and 10 per cent Cabernet Franc, it pairs wonderfully with cranberries and redcurrants, making it an excellent choice for festive occasions.
Calvet Crémant de Bordeaux Blanc (£11, or 2 for £20 at Ocado)
This wine features a beautiful golden-yellow body with fine and persistent bubbles, characteristic of the Bordeaux region. This sparkling wine delights with a fresh and balanced palate, showcasing notes of yellow fruit and subtle touches of toasted brioche. Made from a blend of 70 per cent Sémillon and 30 per cent Cabernet Franc, it pairs excellently with bread sauce, making it a superb choice for festive gatherings.
Crémant is more than just a budget-friendly alternative to Champagne; it’s a sparkling wine with its own unique charm and character. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for the perfect gift, Crémant is sure to impress with its quality, history, and unbeatable value.
