Sparkling Wine & Champagne

Champagne is without doubt the king of sparkling wines and has been for some centuries.

The houses are kept in order by the CIVC - a marketing and rule making body (much like the appellation controllee). The major difference between this body and the appellation controllee authority is that it's run by champagne producers and the champagne boys tend to make rules that protect their interest, help with marketing and ensure that they stay one step ahead of the bureaucratic game.

The UK market is still the biggest in the world for champagne and because of this there is an elite band in the UK wine trade who can become lucky enough to join the champagne academy.

The 'Academie du Champagne' was created 50 years ago to further sales of the 16 Grand Marque Houses and that is why most people in the street can at least name a few. Of course there are numerous other houses but these tend to be small with no large marketing budgets and also very limited resources of wines to make up their blends which the big boys do from many vineyards to create a consistent 'house' style.

Our own Marque - Louis Boyier - is made for us to our specification (since 1893) by one of the smaller houses and unlike most buyer's own brand, it has some Pinot Noir in the blend. Put it next to some of our competitors and you will find considerable extra depth and complexity which is why we like it and hope you do too.

Click here to order Louis Boyier from our Wine Shop.