THE STUDY OF WINE HAS CHAMPAGNE LOST ITS FIZZ? MELISSA ROBERTS 99059193 6 APRIL 2001 Champagne is unique in the world. The appeal of Champagne goes back hundreds of years to the seventeenth century when Dom Perignon perfected the method for trapping bubbles in wine. In that time there have been many occasions when Champagne indeed seems to have "ÃÂlost its fizz'. By definition as the ultimate luxury product, Champagne is often the first to be hit in times of political and economic instability. Although this was seen most recently in the early 90's, it is by no means a new concept, and it always bounced back. However, the 1990's saw problems of a different kind, as there were fundamental changes in the Champagne market. Spiralling grape prices, the emergence of surrogate brands with their cheap, poor quality offerings, and the threat posed by sparkling wines from around the world all threatened to seriously affect the popularity, prestige and desirability of Champagne.
Headquarters in Épernay.
Moet champagne and glass.
Vineyards of French Champagne maker Moet & ChandonThe early 90's made the future for Champagne producers look bleak, however, all that is now mostly behind them and sales have recovered. Although sparkling wines have remained a significant challenge, Champagne is well and truly fizzing once again.
The appeal of Champagne has been much documented through the years. Much of its appeal lies in its history. The Champagne region has been making sparkling wine using a unique formula for nearly 300 years, and promoting it as the beverage of celebration for at least 200. Napoleon used to say to he could not live without Champagne: "ÃÂ "In victory I deserve it, and in defeat I need it"ÃÂ Marie Antoinette declared that it made women beautiful. Champagne is a wine of festivity, of romance and it brings a sense of celebration to any occasion. It is a...