Facts About Champagne and Other Sparkling Wines

A concise, illustrated tour through the birth and evolution of sparkling wine, this volume gathers observations made during journeys across France’s Champagne region and the key vineyards of Europe. The author weaves together geological facts about the chalky slopes, the role of monastic gardeners, and the early experiments that led to today’s celebrated effervescence. With more than a hundred original engravings, readers can picture cellars, ancient abbeys, and the tools that shaped the craft.

Beyond the science, the book offers vivid snapshots of how Champagne entered the courts of popes, kings, and crusading knights, illustrating its place in medieval diplomacy and celebration. Brief anecdotes about figures such as Dom Pérignon, Pope Urban II, and the soldiers who rode with Joan of Arc bring the era to life without revealing later developments in modern production. The result is an engaging, well‑illustrated guide that balances historical detail with a readable, conversational tone.