The world of champagne is vast and complex. With so many different types, styles, and flavors to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. One style that has been gaining popularity in recent years is brut nature champagne.
Brut nature champagne is a type of champagne that contains little or no added sugar. This means that the wine’s natural acidity and fruitiness are allowed to shine through without being masked by sweetness. The result is a dry, crisp, and refreshing wine that pairs well with a variety of foods.
One of the key characteristics of brut nature champagne is its low dosage. Dosage refers to the amount of sugar added back into the wine after disgorgement (the removal of sediment from the bottle). Most champagnes have a dosage level between 6-12 grams per liter, while brut nature champagnes have less than 3 grams per liter. This minimal addition allows for the true expression of terroir and grape varietals.
Another important aspect of brut nature champagne is its production process. In order to achieve such low levels of residual sugar, winemakers must use only the highest quality grapes and carefully control fermentation temperatures. Additionally, aging on lees (dead yeast cells) for an extended period helps develop complexity and texture in the final product.
Despite its name suggesting otherwise, brut nature champagne isn’t necessarily harsh or austere in flavor. In fact, many producers aim for a balance between acidity and fruitiness that makes for an incredibly enjoyable drinking experience. Some common tasting notes include citrus fruits like lemon or grapefruit along with subtle floral aromas.
Brut nature champagnes also pair extremely well with food due to their high acidity levels which cut through rich dishes such as foie gras or lobster bisque while complimenting lighter fare like oysters or sushi beautifully.
If you’re looking to explore this style further there are plenty available at all price points; some of our favorites include the Billecart-Salmon Brut Nature, Philipponnat Royale Reserve Brut Nature, and Vilmart & Cie Grand Cellier.
While brut nature champagne may not be for everyone, it’s certainly worth trying if you’re a fan of dry wines or looking to expand your palate. With its unique flavor profile and dedication to quality production methods, this style is sure to continue gaining popularity in the years to come.