How is Crémant de Bourgogne made?
Grape varieties: Crémant de Bourgogne can be made from various grape varieties authorized in the region, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gamay, and Aligoté. These grape varieties contribute to the wine's aromatic complexity.
Harvest: The grapes used to produce Crémant de Bourgogne are harvested by hand. This ensures that only the best fruit is selected.
Pressing: The grapes are gently pressed to extract the must. This is then used to produce the base wine.
Fermentation: The initial alcoholic fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. This process allows the primary aromas of the grapes to develop.
Blending: After fermentation, the base wines from different grape varieties and plots are blended to create the characteristic profile of Crémant de Bourgogne. This step is crucial as it guarantees the balance and complexity of the final wine.
Traditional method: Once blended, the base wines are then bottled. The addition of a liqueur de tirage (sugar and yeast) then triggers the second fermentation in the bottle. It is this fermentation that produces the natural bubbles characteristic of Crémant de Bourgogne.
Aging on lees: After fermentation in the bottle, the wine is aged on lees. This specific period generally lasts from 9 to 24 months, or even longer for prestige cuvées. It is thanks to this process that the wine obtains its creamy texture and aromas of brioche and yeast.
Disgorging: Once aging on lees is complete, the bottles undergo a disgorging process. This is done to remove the lees and clarify the wine. Next, a small amount of liqueur d'expédition, often a mixture of wine and sugar, is added. This allows the sweetness level of Crémant de Bourgogne to be adjusted.
Final bottling: After disgorging, the bottles are sealed with a cork or metal cap. They are now ready to be sold. You can then enjoy them.
In summary
The production of Crémant de Bourgogne is a meticulous process that combines tradition and innovation to produce a high-quality sparkling wine with a wide range of aromas and an elegant effervescence. Discover them for yourself!