French Sparklers to Drink Every Day

Photo by Clarinta Subrata

If most of us wine lovers had our way, we would drink Champagne every day. It’s the world’s most complex sparkling wine and adds a touch of glamour to happy hour. But what if Champagne prices make it difficult to indulge that often? For those with Champagne dreams on a modest budget, enter Crémant. Crémant is sparkling wine from France made in a similar technique with a much more affordable price tag. 

Why is Crémant less expensive than Champagne? Aside from prestige, it comes down to laws and climate. Legally Champagne is made in one specific region in northeast France, whereas Crémant is made in eight designated areas. The Champagne region is at the very northern limit of grape growing for fine wine, which ensures crisp acidity. That also means grapes are exposed to extreme weather and can struggle to ripen. In general, it is easier to grow grapes in the Crémant appellations. Additionally, Crémant’s legal aging requirement is a few months less than Champagne’s. Less time in the cellar means Crémant wineries can charge less.

Of the eight Crémant appellations, four are the most prominent: Limoux, Alsace, Burgundy, and Loire. The grapes and flavor profiles differ, but several laws are the same across the board. All must have secondary fermentation (which creates the bubbles) in the bottle. Hand-harvesting is mandatory. Each region can make white or rosé bubbly. And all Crémant has a minimum aging requirement of nine months in bottle on the lees (the yeast cells that provide the delicious toasty notes and creamy texture).

Crémant de Limoux

Crémant de Limoux is where sparkling wine all began in 1531. Dom  Pérignon may have allegedly said, “Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!” to his first batch of champagne, but he first learned how to make it from monks of Saint Hilaire Abbey in Limoux. Primarily Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc, it can also contain Pinot Noir and the indigenous Mauzac. The result? A dry sparkler with distinctive apple notes from the Mauzac and crisp acidity from the Chenin Blanc.  

Try: Domaine de Mouscaillo Crémant de Limoux Brut Nature, $25

Crémant d’Alsace

The history of Cremat d’Alsace is much shorter (only since 1900). However, Crémant d’Alsace is the largest Crémant production region, accounting for half of France’s Crémant production. The majority of production is Pinot Blanc, although Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Auxerrois, Pinot Gris, and Riesling are allowed. Due to the numerous approved grapes, the style varies greatly but is always dry and fresh-tasting. Pro tip: Crémant d'Alsace rosé is made from 100% Pinot Noir. Compared to a bottle of rosé Champagne, it is a steal. 

Try: Lucien Albrecht Crémant d’Alsace Rose, $19.99

Crémant de Bourgogne

Crémant de Bourgogne is a fantastic alternative to Champagne. Crémants from northern Burgundy share a similarly chilly climate and utilize the same predominant grapes: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Unlike Champagne, Gamay may also be used. Expect riper fruits and slightly less complex than Champagne. Of note: this can be one of the most expensive Crémant regions, especially if you purchase bottles designated “eminent” or “grand eminent,” denoting extended aging. 

Try: Domaine de la Grande Cote Crémant de Bourgogne Brut, $22

Crémant de Loire

The Loire has a long winemaking history and has been making Crémant since the 19th century. Chenin Blanc is the star of the blend, providing acidity and honey and floral notes. Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir are also frequently used, alongside a number of other Loire grapes. Crémant de Loires are cheerful wines, displaying fruit and freshness along with bright acidity.

Try: Gratien and Meyer Crémant de Loire Brut, $19.99