First Press vs Second Press Champagne: Understanding the Differences
When it comes to Champagne, the terminology can be confusing, with words like brut, cuvée, and pressée thrown around. One of the most significant factors that determine the quality and taste of Champagne is the pressing process. Champagne is made by fermenting the juice of the grape, and this juice comes from the pressing of the grapes. Champagne makers use a process called pressing to extract juice from grapes, and this process can produce different qualities of juice depending on how many times it's pressed. The first pressing produces the highest quality juice, while the second pressing produces juice of lesser quality.
Understanding the differences between first press and second press Champagne can help you choose the right bottle for your tastes and budget. In this article, we'll explore the differences between the two and why first press Champagne is often considered superior.
What is First Press Champagne?
First press Champagne, also known as cuvée, is the juice that comes from the initial pressing of the grapes. Champagne houses typically use the juice from the first pressing for their highest quality bottles. First press Champagne is highly sought after because it's the purest and most concentrated juice. The grapes are carefully selected and hand-picked, and the juice is extracted using a traditional wine press. The juice from the first pressing is then aged in oak barrels or stainless steel tanks to develop its flavour and complexity.
Champagne Michel Laval is one of the most reputable Champagne houses that specialize in producing first press Champagne. They use a combination of traditional methods and modern technology to produce some of the finest Champagnes in the world. The Laval family has been producing Champagne for generations, and they have a deep understanding of the pressing process.
What is Second Press Champagne?
Second press Champagne, also known as taille, is the juice that comes from the second pressing of the grapes. This juice is of lesser quality than first press juice because it's diluted with water and contains fewer nutrients and flavours. Second press Champagne is typically used to make non-vintage Champagne, which is less expensive than vintage Champagne.
Second press Champagne is what most people drink and is the main component of non-vintage Champagne. Non-vintage Champagne makes up most of the Champagne produced and is the type of Champagne that most people would recognize and buy in bottle shops, such as Moet and Veuve Clicquot. While second press Champagne is not as highly valued as first press Champagne, it's still an essential component of Champagne production. It provides a lighter and less complex taste that is often enjoyed in social settings or as an accompaniment to food.
Differences in Taste and Quality
The differences between first press and second press Champagne are significant. First press Champagne is often considered superior because it's more concentrated and flavourful than second press Champagne. It has a richer, more complex taste and aroma, and it's often more expensive than second press Champagne.
Second press Champagne, on the other hand, is typically lighter and less complex than first press Champagne. It has a more diluted flavour and aroma, and it's usually less expensive than first press Champagne.
Why First Press Champagne is Considered Superior
First press Champagne is considered superior because of its purity and complexity. It's made from the highest quality grapes, and the juice is carefully extracted to ensure that it's as concentrated and flavourful as possible. First press Champagne is often aged longer than second press Champagne, which allows it to develop more complex flavours and aromas.
Champagne Michel Laval is known for producing some of the finest first press Champagnes in the world. Their Champagnes are highly sought after because of their complexity, richness, and purity.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the differences between first press and second press Champagne is essential if you're a Champagne lover. While both types of Champagne have their place in the market, first press Champagne is generally considered superior because of its purity and complexity. Champagne Michel Laval is a top Champagne house that produces some of the finest first press Champagnes in the world. If you're looking for a high-quality Champagne, it's worth exploring our cellar
