Vintage Champagne and non-vintage Champagne are two distinct types of Champagne that differ in terms of age, composition, and aging requirements. Let's dive deeper into the differences between these two styles.
1. Composition:
Non-vintage Champagne, also known as NV Champagne, is typically a blend of wines from different years. The aim is to create a consistent flavor profile year after year. The base wine used in NV Champagne is usually a blend of multiple grape varieties, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. This blending allows the Champagne house to maintain a consistent taste and style, regardless of the vintage conditions.
On the other hand, vintage Champagne is made exclusively from grapes harvested in a single specified vintage year. It must contain 100% of the stated vintage, meaning all the grapes used in the production come from that particular year. This allows the Champagne to showcase the unique characteristics and nuances of that specific growing season.
2. Aging Requirements:
NV Champagne requires a minimum aging period of 15 months from tirage (the addition of yeast and sugar for the second fermentation) to release. This relatively short aging period ensures that the wine is ready to be consumed soon after purchase. NV Champagne is designed to be enjoyed for its freshness, fruitiness, and lively bubbles.
In contrast, vintage Champagne must be aged for a longer period. The legal requirement for vintage Champagne aging is a minimum of three years, with at least one year spent aging on the lees (the spent yeast cells from the second fermentation). This extended aging allows the wine to develop more complexity, depth, and tertiary flavors. Vintage Champagne tends to have a richer and more mature character compared to NV Champagne.
3. Flavor Profiles:
NV Champagne is known for its fresh and vibrant fruit flavors, with a focus on citrus, green apple, and sometimes red berry notes. It tends to be crisp, light, and easy-drinking, making it a popular choice for celebrations and casual enjoyment. The non-vintage style aims for consistency, so you can expect a similar taste profile across different bottles from the same Champagne house.
Vintage Champagne, on the other hand, offers a wider range of flavors and aromas due to the specific vintage conditions. Depending on the year, vintage Champagne can display a broader spectrum of fruit flavors, ranging from ripe orchard fruits to more tropical or even exotic notes. The extended aging also adds complexity, bringing forth toasty, nutty, and brioche-like characteristics. Vintage Champagne often has a more pronounced structure and depth, making it suitable for special occasions or for those seeking a more sophisticated Champagne experience.
The main differences between vintage and non-vintage Champagne lie in their composition, aging requirements, and flavor profiles. Non-vintage Champagne provides a consistent and approachable style, while vintage Champagne showcases the unique characteristics of a single vintage. Both styles have their merits and serve different purposes, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the occasion at hand.