How Méthode Traditionelle Sparkling Wine is Made

Back in 2022, we took a big step and kicked off our sparkling wine program, starting with grapes from our very own block of Pinot Meunier. It was an exciting moment—and now, those wines are resting en tirage, slowly developing the depth and character that make traditional-method sparklings so incredible. It’s a waiting game, but one we know will be worth it. Come 2026, we can’t wait to pop the cork and share the results with you!

Ever wondered how that beautiful bottle of sparkling wine comes to life? The méthode traditionelle (also known as méthode champenoise) is a labor of love, patience, and precision. Every step, from the vineyard to the final pop of the cork, plays a role in creating the bubbly magic we all love.

Step 1: From Vineyard to Harvest – The Beginning of the Journey

Great sparkling wine starts with great grapes! Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier are the stars of the show, carefully grown and nurtured throughout the year. When it’s time for harvest—usually earlier than other wines—grape growers pick the fruit at just the right balance of acidity and sweetness. That crisp acidity is key to creating the vibrant, refreshing style of sparkling wine.

Step 2: Pressing – Getting the Best Juice

Once harvested, the grapes are gently pressed to extract the purest juice while avoiding any bitter tannins from the skins. This step is crucial because it ensures a delicate, high-quality base for the wine.

Step 3: Primary Fermentation – The First Transformation

Now the real chemistry begins. Yeast is added to the juice, and fermentation kicks off, turning sugar into alcohol. The result? A still (non-sparkling) base wine. At this stage, each grape variety is often fermented separately to preserve its unique characteristics, which will later be blended for balance and complexity.

Step 4: The Art of Blending – Finding the Perfect Mix

This is where the cellar master, often with years (or even generations) of experience, works their magic. Wines from different vineyards and vintages are carefully blended to create a signature house style. Think of it like composing a symphony—each element must harmonize perfectly.

Step 5: Bottling & Second Fermentation – Bubbles Begin to Form

Once the blend is perfected, a mix of sugar and yeast (called liqueur de tirage) is added before bottling. This triggers a second fermentation inside the bottle—where the magic of carbonation happens! The bottles are sealed with a temporary cap and placed in cool cellars to slowly develop.

Step 6: Aging on Lees – Time Adds Complexity

Here’s where patience comes in. The wine rests on its lees (dead yeast cells) for at least 15 months, sometimes much longer. This aging process, known as autolysis, creates those delicious creamy, toasty flavors—think notes of brioche, almond, and butter. The longer it ages, the more complexity develops.

Step 7: Riddling & Disgorging – The Final Polish

As the wine ages, sediment collects in the bottle. To remove it, winemakers perform a process called riddling—gradually tilting and rotating the bottles upside down to move the sediment to the neck. Then, during disgorging, the neck is frozen, and the built-up sediment is popped out, leaving behind perfectly clear, sparkling wine.

Step 8: Dosage – Fine-Tuning the Flavor

Before the bottle is corked for good, a small amount of wine and sugar (dosage) is added to fine-tune the sweetness and balance. Whether you love your bubbly bone-dry (Brut Nature) or a little sweeter (Demi-Sec), this step determines the final taste profile.

Step 9: Maturation & Release – The Grand Finale

Even after disgorging, the wine often rests for a bit longer before release, allowing the flavors to harmonize. Once it’s ready, it’s corked, wired, labeled, and finally sent out into the world to be enjoyed!

Step 10: The Best Part – Enjoying the Bubbles!

And here’s where you come in—popping the cork, pouring a glass, and savoring the fine craftsmanship that went into every sip. Whether you’re celebrating a big milestone or just enjoying an ordinary day, méthode traditionelle sparkling wine is always a great idea.

So, the next time you raise a glass of champagne or sparkling wine, take a moment to appreciate the artistry, tradition, and dedication that went into making it.

Cheers to méthode traditionelle! 🥂