249. Crémant and Champagne: Method, Region, and the Structure of Distinction

Crémant and Champagne: Method, Region, and the Structure of Distinction

Crémant is the official designation for a category of traditional method sparkling wines produced outside the Champagne AOC but within specific regulated French appellations and in Luxembourg and Belgium. Each Crémant must undergo a second fermentation in bottle, be hand harvested, and follow rules governing grape varieties, pressing yields, lees aging, atmospheric pressure, and labeling. These wines are not labeled simply as “Crémant” but always by place, such as Crémant d’Alsace, Crémant de Bourgogne, Crémant de Loire, or Crémant de Wallonie. The term reflects a consistent production method adapted to regional conditions.