19 Best Champagne Brands: How To Pick The Right Champagne For Your Celebrations

There is nothing quite like popping a good bottle of Champagne, from the popular Italian Prosecco to the Creme de la Creme French -Champagne.

19 Best Champagne Brands: How To Pick The Right Champagne For Your Celebrations
19 Best Champagne Brands: How To Pick The Right Champagne For Your Celebrations

19 best champagne brands: find the best champagne for your occasion

Contents

By   YEET MAGAZINE | Updated 0439 GMT (1239 HKT) October 14,2022

There is nothing quite like popping a good bottle of Champagne, from the popular Italian Prosecco to the Creme de la Creme French -Champagne.

Festive and chic, champagne has become the universal luxury drink of choice for celebrations, special occasions or just because. Champagne is indeed a perfect sip on a daily basis thanks to its ease of consumption and its food-friendly nature.

I only drink Champagne twice, when I'm in love and when I'm not.- Coco Chanel

Over 301 million bottles of champagne were exported in 2021-2022, and interest in anything sparkling continues to grow.

Playing a leading role in celebrating many of life's triumphant moments, champagne comes in a variety of price ranges and styles.

With an incredible array of champagne options and price tags to choose from, choosing the right benchmark sparkler can often be overwhelming. While every champagne is a sparkling wine, not all sparkling wine is champagne (we'll talk about that in a moment).

To help you find the perfect bottle of champagne for your special occasion, we are uncorking the world's best Champagne brands in 2021-2022 that are sure to appeal to all palates.

From the best Champagne for less than $ 100 to the most exceptional prestige vintages, here is the list of champagnes to know.

The Ultimate List of Champagnes: Top 19 Champagne Brands in the World

NumberBrandBest for
1Moët & ChandonParties
2Widow ClicquotRomantic moments
3Dom PérignonMemorable gift
4Nicolas FeuillatteFamily meetings
5GH MomFive-star catering
6Laurent-PerrierUnmissable aperitifs
7TaittingerNew Years Eve
8Pol RogerHigh society
9BollingerBlack tie events
10PommeryRespectful of nature
11Piper heidsieckRed carpet
12Louis Roederer (Crystal)Sumptuous evenings
13Perrier toyProposals
14KrugConnoisseurs
15Armand De BrignacVery chic parties
16Duck-DuchêneCasual toasts
17RuinartRefined aperitifs
18Billecart-SalmonSeafood treats
19LansonClassic aperitifs

If you want to learn more about champagne in general and what makes it so special, we explain what exactly champagne is below. We also have a helpful guide to show you how to properly serve champagne and answers to some of our readers' most frequently asked questions.

1. Moët & Chandon

Champagne which is practically everyone's staple food. Founded in 1743, Moët & Chandon is one of the most famous and appreciated champagne houses in the world, and for good reason. With 1200 hectares of vines, the largest vineyard in Champagne, Moët & Chandon combines heritage and know-how for a 100% glamorous event.

The brand is so sought after that we maintain a Moët & Chandon price list if you would like to see all of the options available in store today.

Best champagne for: party favors, bridal showers, engagement celebrations and brunches

Moët & Chandon Moët Imperial

Seductive, classic and always sophisticated, Moët Impérial is perhaps the best-selling champagne in the world. The Maison's most iconic champagne, Moët Impérial toasted Hollywood's brightest superstars and starred onscreen in some of the most memorable films, from Pretty Woman to The Great Gatsby.buy now

Moët & Chandon Rosé Imperial

The bright pink Rosé Impérial is a romantic expression of the Moët & Chandon style. The perfect bottle for boho-chic dos and happy afternoons.buy now

2. Veuve Clicquot

One of the most recognizable names in the champagne world with its iconic and unmistakable yellow label, Maison Veuve Clicquot has been producing luxury champagnes since 1772.

Veuve Clicquot is appreciated for its rich, toasty flavors… and its highly Instagrammable qualities.

Always in fashion, Veuve Clicquot commands attention and expresses your style of the moment.

Best Champagne for: Meaningful festivities and a romantic picnic in the park

Veuve Clicquot Label Jaune Brutbuy now

Veuve Clicquot Rosebuy now

3. Dom Perignon

Dom Pérignon is the prestige cuvée from the Champagne house Moët & Chandon.

Dom Pérignon owes its name to a Benedictine monk considered by many to be the spiritual father of Champagne.

Come quickly, I taste the stars!- Dom Pérignon

A French classic, Dom Pérignon is the most famous vintage brand - vintages are produced from the best grapes grown in a single year - Champagne in the world. Dom Pérignon is the Champagne of choice for royalty and celebrities. Memorably, Dom Pérignon was the champagne of choice for Lady Diana's royal wedding to Prince Charles.

Best champagne for: A memorable gift (for weddings, Valentine's Day, special birthdays or milestone achievements)

Dom Perignon 2008buy now

4. Nicolas Feuillatte

With its contemporary packaging and good value for money blends, Nicolas Feuillatte is one of the best-selling Champagne brands in France.

Unlike most of the beloved century-old champagnes in the world, Nicolas Feuillatte is a relatively young champagne brand - the blue label was founded in 1976. Nicolas Feuillatte champagne bottles are both affordable and affordable.

Best champagne for: Family reunions

Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Reservebuy now

5. GH Mom

Your champagne that goes with everything. Founded in Reims in 1827, the Champagne house GH Mumm and its emblematic red ribbon are considered by many to be the Champagne par excellence of gastronomy, which can be found at the tables of the greatest chefs.

But beyond his long-standing relationship with haute cuisine, Mumm is also famous for his regular Formula 1 podium appearances and his penchant for sponsoring luxury sporting events.

Best champagne for: Five-star dinner

GH Mumm Brut Grand Cordonbuy now

6. Laurent Perrier

If you think that celebrating is a sincere matter, Laurent-Perrier is your Champagne. Founded in 1812, Laurent-Perrier is one of the most famous Champagne houses and synonymous with a French art de vivre . With its elegant and elegant design and its Chardonnay-dominant house style, Maison Laurent-Perrier is known for its finesse, lightness and elegance. A "healthy" sparkler. Brand of low calorie champagne, Laurent-Perrier is the darling of fashion stars.

Best champagne for: corporate receptions and top aperitifs

Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brutbuy now

7. Taittinger

One of the few Champagne houses owned and managed by the family whose name appears on the label, Taittinger is a Champagne with excellent value for money. The characteristic of Taittinger Champagnes is the high percentage of Chardonnay, offering elegance and finesse on the nose and in the mouth.

Best champagne for: New Year's Eve oysters

Taittinger La Française Brutbuy now

8. Pol Roger

If you want to celebrate like a royal, it's Pol Roger. Pol Roger holds a royal mandate as supplier of champagne to Her Majesty Queen Elisabeth II and was the official champagne for the wedding of William and Kate as well as that of Harry and Meghan. Pol Roger is also renowned for being the darling of Sir Winston Churchill - whose famous champagne words ("In victory, deserve it. In defeat, need it!") Are quoted on the label of the prestigious Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill.

Best champagne for: The option approved by Royal for your aperitifs

Pol Roger Brutbuy now

9. Bollinger

The gentleman's choice for champagne. Even though British Secret Service Agent James Bond has chosen other champagnes in the past, Bollinger is currently the go-to 007 champagne.

Made with a blend of mainly Pinot Noir, Bollinger Champagne is well known for its full-bodied style and complexity.

Best Champagne For: Black Tie Events and Celebratory Afternoon Tea

Bollinger Special Cuvéebuy now

10. Pommery

Founded in 1858, Pommery is a highly respected champagne producer known for its continuous innovation. Pommery introduced the “Brut” category on the Champagne scene and is also known as the creator of the first eco-responsible Champagne in the world.

Finesse and joyful lightness are the pillars of the Pommery style.

Best champagne for: eco-responsible receptions or champagne breakfast

Pommery Brut Royalbuy now

11. Piper Heidsieck

Sometimes known as the “red label,” Piper-Heidsick is one of the most iconic champagnes, famous at red carpet events like the Cannes Film Festival. A timeless classic, Piper-Heidsieck, is a favorite among luxury lifestyle brands. Perhaps it has something to do with whether the champagne house started out as an attempt to impress Queen Marie Antoinette or that it was the champagne brand of choice for Marilyn Monroe.

Best champagne for: red carpet, artistic and cultural events

Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brutbuy now

12. Louis Roederer (Crystal)

Founded in 1833, the Louis Roederer Champagne house is one of the most renowned Champagne producers.

Louis Roederer has a long and rich history, from czars to hip hop stars.

Cristal is Louis Roederer's most famous champagne. Originally designed in 1876 to cater to the tastes of Tsar Alexander II of Russia, Louis Roederer's Cristal received rave reviews for its full-bodied, opulent and alluring champagne. Champagne Cristal is only produced in the best vintages.

Best champagne for: coveted events and lavish parties

Louis Roederer Cristal Brut 2008buy now

13. Perrier-Jouet

One of the favorite champagnes of the best in Europe since 1811 (from Baudelaire to Princess Grace of Monaco), Perrier-Jouët champagnes are floral and complex. Perrier-Jouët is closely linked to the artistic scene. The iconic hand-painted floral design of Perrier-Jouët's flagship bottles hints at your artistic flair.

Perrier Jouët's romantic heritage and refined elegance make him the perfect companion for a love story.

Best champagne for: Proposals, parties or artistic events

Perrier Jouet Grand Brutbuy now

14. Krug

One of the Great Brands of Champagne, Krug is sometimes described as the Rolls-Royce or the great lady of Champagne. Elegance personified.

Krug has a bold, rich taste profile that screams power. Krug's exceptional champagnes are favorites of the most discerning sommeliers and palates.

Best champagne for: Champagne connoisseurs

Krug Grande Cuvée Brutbuy now

15. Armand de Brignac (alias As de Pique)

A party Champagne par excellence. Jay-Z's trendy champagne brand, Armand de Brignac (better known as As of Spades) is a staple in upscale * bars, clubs and restaurants * around the world.

Synonymous with supreme luxury, Armand de Brignac is produced by the Maison de Champagne Cattier.

Best champagne for: Very chic and nocturnal evenings

Ace of Spades Raw Goldbuy now

16. Canard-Duchêne

Champagne at the best value for money for epicureans. Born from a wine lover's fairy tale, Canard-Duchêne is a respected champagne brand that is both affordable and delicious.

The noble Pinot Noir grape variety creates the quintessence of the Canard-Duchêne style: refined champagnes full of character, freshness and finesse.

Best champagne for: party toasts, casual aperitifs and gatherings of friends

Canard-Duchêne Authentic Brutbuy now

17. Ruinart

A classic for sophisticated palates. Founded in 1729, Ruinart is the oldest Champagne house in the world; it now belongs to LVMH.

Ruinart was also the first house to produce rosé Champagne in 1764 - think of the great bubbly Burgundy.

Best champagne for: Sophisticated aperitifs and boutiques, underground events

Ruinart Brut Blanc de Blancsbuy now

Ruinart Brut Rosébuy now

18. Billecart-Salmon

Founded in 1818, Billecart-Salmon is one of the few Champagne houses still owned by the original family.

With two centuries of family wisdom, Billecart-Salmon produces an exquisite champagne for the finest palates.

Best champagne for: seafood feasts

Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosébuy now

19. Lanson

Lanson is one of the oldest Champagne houses. True to its rich heritage, Lanson has been producing some of the best champagnes in the world since 1760, using traditional techniques. Renowned non-malolactic, Lanson champagnes are fresh, crunchy, fruity and elegant.

Best champagne for: Classic aperitifs

Lanson Black Label Brutbuy now

How to serve champagne

Champagne is best served chilled and not iced, ideally between 8 and 10 ° C. Once you're ready to enjoy your champagne, fill an ice bucket for 15-20 minutes with ice and a third of water.

The best glasses for serving champagne are the lute or tulip shaped glasses (the latter being the favorite of many champagne houses and sommeliers), which help to accentuate the aromas and direct the bubbles upwards.

What exactly is champagne?

Authentic Champagne is a sparkling wine that is produced (cultivated, fermented and bottled) exclusively in the eponymous region of Champagne, in the north of France. Champagne is centered around three main cities, namely Reims, Épernay and Aÿ.

All champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is champagne

To deserve the right to be called Champagne, a bottle of champagne must also meet the standards of the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée or AOC.

Strictly speaking, if it is a sparkling wine from another region (although they can be made with the Champagne method), it is a sparkling wine, not champagne - the name Champagne is protected. by European legislation.

Note that some American and British sparkling wines use the word champagne (with a lowercase "c") to denote a sparkling wine similar to champagne, but not from the Champagne region.
In general , however, for many people, champagne is simply synonymous with sparkling wine.

Varieties and styles of Champagne

Real champagne must be produced with approved grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay are by far the most common grape varieties used in champagnes. Other approved grape varieties include Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Petit Meslier and Arbane.

Champagnes may be labeled Blanc de Noirs or Blanc de Blancs, indicating the variety and color of the grapes used.

The main types of champagne are Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs and Rosé.

Blanc de Blancs uses 100% Chardonnay; their light and dry taste makes it appreciated as an aperitif.

Blancs de Noirs are white champagnes made from the black grape varieties Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Blanc de Noirs champagnes tend to be deeper and fuller.

Rosé or rosé champagnes are made by adding a small amount of Pinot Noir (traditional method) or by pressing the grape skins (maceration method).

Most champagnes are non-vintage (NV), which means they are made from a blend of grapes from different years, as opposed to a one-year harvest for vintage or vintage champagne (with the year indicated on the label).

Vintage champagnes generally reflect the qualities of a single year. Each Champagne house decides whether it will produce a Millésimé Champagne in a given year. Non-vintage champagnes, on the other hand, are designed to reflect the style of the house.

The residual sugar level in Champagne is called dosage. The champagnes range from Zero Dosage or Brut Nature (no added sugar), through Extra-Brut, Brut, Extra-Sec, Sec, Demi-Sec and Doux (over 50 grams of sugar). per liter). The most popular champagnes are the extra-brut, the brut and the demi-sec.

What is Prestige Cuvée Champagne?

The prestigious cuvées of a Champagne house (or Têtes de Cuvée in French) are the best of the best champagnes typically made from the best grapes from the best Champagne vineyards.

Prestige Cuvée champagnes are often considered the pinnacle of the Champagne House. Prestige vintages often have their own name.

The most popular prestige vintages are:

  • Dom Pérignon, Moët & Chandon
  • Crystal, Louis Roederer
  • Comtes de Champagne, Taittinger (Probably the best champagne in the world, according to James Bond in Casino Royale)
  • Grand cru, mom
  • The Great Lady, Veuve Clicquot
  • Dom Ruinart, Ruinart
  • Sir Winston Churchill, Pol Roger
  • Palmes d'Or, Nicolas Feuillatte

Best champagne in the world: Frequently asked questionsWhat is champagne not?

Sparkling wines that are not produced in Champagne in France are not technically Champagne. Sparkling wines can be made with the same grape varieties as champagne or an entirely different blend.What is the difference between champagne and sparkling wine?

If in doubt, your safest bet is to call it that: sparkling wine. Sparkling wine refers to all wines that, well, sparkle. If it has bubbles, it's sparkling wine. Protected designation of origin, Champagne designates only sparkling wines produced in Champagne in France and produced according to the guidelines of the Champagne method. Sparkling wines from other regions of France are labeled crémant, while sparkling wines from other parts of the world are simply labeled sparkling wine.
Prosecco from Italy, Cava from Spain, and Sekt from Austria and Germany are among the most popular sparkling wines.What is the difference between Champagne and Crémant?

Crémant refers to French sparkling wine made in France but * not * in the Champagne region.Which Champagne has the least sugar?

Adding sugar to Champagne is called dosage. The sugar level in Champagne can range from zero to more than 50 grams of sugar per liter for Doux champagnes. For the less sweet Champagnes, opt for Brut (less than 12 grams of sugar per liter), Extra Brut (between 0 and 6 grams of sugar per liter), or even better Brut Nature / Brut Zero (no added sugar).Is real champagne only from France?

The short answer is yes. To be called Champagne, a sparkling wine must be produced in the Champagne region of France.What does Cuvée Champagne mean?

In its literal translation, the French term "cuvée" is derived from the word "cuve" which means "reservoir". The term “cuvée” for Champagne essentially designates a blend of wines or grapes from specially selected barrels or vats which will be bottled.Is Prosecco champagne?

No, Prosecco is not champagne in itself. Champagne is a sparkling wine made in the Champagne region of France, while prosecco comes from Italy. Prosceoo can be sparkling ("spumante"), sparkling ("frizzante") or still ("tranquillo") wine and is mainly made from Prosecco grapes (aka "Glera").What is winegrower's Champagne?

The winegrower's Champagne is a sparkling wine produced by the winegrowers and their families.What is the most expensive brand of champagne?

Created by Champagne GDD Chapuy, Taste of Diamonds is the most expensive bottle of champagne in the world, sold for 1.8 million euros in 2013.
Taste of Diamonds presented a unique platinum case encrusted with diamonds, enhanced with a white diamond of 19 carats. The champagne was an extremely rare and coveted 1976 Vintage from the private collection of the Chapuy family.