Champagne Thienot Cuv Alain Thienot 2008

Champagne Brut is dry, sparkling wine from the Champagne region of northern France. Champagne of any color can be brut, both the standard white and Rosé. It is made from the classic Champagne Blend (typically Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier) but in theory can also include the four lesser-known Champagne varieties: Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Petit Meslier and Arbane.

Chardonnay – Pinot Noir are commonly blended together to produce sparkling wines around the world. The best cuvees are typically made in the traditional methode champenoise (though charmat and carbonation are possible) and may be produced as vintage or non-vintage wines. The blend has its roots in France, but is successfully produced in Italy and a number of New World countries.

 The proportions of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir will vary according to the preferences of producers and vintage conditions, but using equal amounts of the two is not uncommon. Wines made in this style can be crisp and fresh-tasting in some examples, steely and mineral-driven in others or have characteristics of bread, toast and butter. Some of the best wines will have elements of each of these categories and be rich, integrated and ageworthy.