Champagne

Buy champagne - elegance in a glass for special moments

The sun is low over the vines of Champagne, delicate wafts of mist still linger over the chalky soil from which some of the world's most famous grapes grow. In the distance, the glitter of Paris - perhaps your next travel destination? 

In your hand: a glass of champagne that bubbles softly like the sound of a French chanson. The first sip is like a golden sunrise - fresh, lively, with a touch of elegance that gets right under your skin.

Champagne is not just a drink. Champagne is France in its noblest form. An expression of style, sensuality and the courage to enjoy life to the full. Whether for a special event, on your trip to France or as a gift for a special person - with champagne, we celebrate not just occasions, but pure existence.

In this article, you will find out why champagne is much more than just sparkling wine, which houses you should know - and how to choose the perfect champagne for every moment. 

What is so special about champagne?

Champagne is not just any sparkling wine - it is something like the king of sparkling wines. Its uniqueness begins with its origin: only sparkling wine that comes from the Champagne region in north-eastern France and has been produced according to strict rules can even be called “Champagne”. 

The combination of chalky soils, cool climate and traditional bottle fermentation creates a complexity and finesse that is unrivaled anywhere in the world.

Champagne often matures on the lees for years - which gives it incredible depth, fine perlage and a distinctive brioche aroma. It is this craftsmanship, patience and demand for perfection that sets it apart from other sparkling wines.

Would you like to know more? Then let's take a closer look.

Which are the best-known champagne brands?

If you enjoy a glass of champagne, you can now find out more about the prestige and history of this special drop. You should keep these houses in mind:

• Moët & Chandon - One of the most famous brands in the world. Known for the Moët Impérial - fruity, elegant, accessible.
• Ruinart - The oldest champagne house, founded in 1729. Particularly fine and subtle - an insider tip for connoisseurs.
• Taittinger - Stands for finesse, elegance and a high proportion of Chardonnay. Perfect for lovers of fresh, floral notes.
• Pommery - Known for its freshness and precise style, ideal as an aperitif or with seafood.

These names stand not only for quality, but also for style and character. And they show that champagne is not a uniform drink, but a world of its own full of variety.

Which is the best champagne?

There is no general answer to the question of the best champagne - personal taste, occasion and budget all play a major role here. 

Nevertheless, there are some exquisite highlights that regularly shine in blind tastings:

• Dom Pérignon - vintage champagne from Moët & Chandon. Complex, deep, an experience for the palate.
• Cristal by Louis Roederer - Elegant, precise, luxurious. Once created for the Russian Tsar's court.
• Krug Grande Cuvée - A cuvée of over 120 wines from different vintages. It could hardly be more complex.

But even a Ruinart Blanc de Blancs or a Pommery Brut Apanage can absolutely keep up in terms of taste - and score with elegance, freshness and personality.

How much does a bottle of good champagne cost?

Champagne has its price - and for good reason. The production process is complex, the storage period long and the demands high. But there is a suitable experience for every budget:

• Entry-level champagne: from around €35-50. Here you will find solid non-vintage champagnes from renowned houses such as Taittinger Brut Réserve or Pommery Brut Royal.
• Premium champagne: 60-120 €. Ideal for special occasions, e.g. Ruinart Rosé or Moët Grand Vintage.
• Prestige cuvées: from €150. For collectors and connoisseurs, such as Dom Pérignon, Krug or Louis Roederer Cristal.

We are convinced that a well-made champagne is worth every euro - because it not only tastes good, but also impresses with its elegance.

What is the difference between sparkling wine and champagne?

The differences are greater than many people think - even though both are sparkling:

• Origin: Champagne comes exclusively from Champagne, sparkling wine mostly from Germany or Austria.
• Production: Champagne is traditionally matured in the bottle (méthode champenoise), while many sparkling wines are produced in tanks.
• Maturation: Champagne is often aged for years on the lees - which gives it depth and creaminess.
• Price: Champagne is more expensive due to its elaborate production - but it is also more complex.

Anyone looking for a creamy texture, fine perlage and complex aromas will be happy with champagne. Sparkling wine, on the other hand, is often fresher and less complicated - but also impressive in top quality. 

Discover our fine selection in the sparkling wine, crémant, prosecco or white wine categories for more sparkling alternatives.

Which champagne do the rich drink?

From luxury yachts to gala dinners - some champagnes are synonymous with glamor:

• Roederer Cristal - Clear bottle, golden foil, iconic status. Popular with royals and rap stars.
• Dom Pérignon - For many, the epitome of luxury and elegance.
• Armand de Brignac (Ace of Spades) - Jay-Z's favorite champagne, known for its metallic bottles.

But brands such as Ruinart, Taittinger and Moët can also be found at exclusive events - because they combine style and tradition.

Best champagne for weddings?

A wedding can be something special - after all, it's the most beautiful day of your life. We recommend elegant, accessible champagnes with a fine perlage and pleasant freshness:

• Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial - The classic that always fits.
• Taittinger Brut Réserve - Elegant, charming, perfect for festive occasions.
• Pommery Brut Royal - Fresh, lively, excellent as an aperitif.
• Ruinart Blanc de Blancs - For that special, stylish moment.

For the champagne reception, the toast or with dessert - champagne creates a unique ambience for every moment of your wedding.

Conclusion: Champagne - a sip of French joie de vivre

Champagne is far more than just a sparkling drink. Champagne is the sparkle of a special moment, the tingle of anticipation, the quiet “Oui” to life. One sip - and you are in Champagne, among the vines and centuries-old savoir-vivre. 

Whether you want to pamper yourself or give a noble gift to someone close to your heart: Champagne is worth a thousand words.

Discover the exclusive selection at Heinemann now - and find the perfect drop for your personal occasion, your next departure or the next big “Santé” to life.