Crémant: French sparkling wine from over 30 varieties and regions
Crémant is French sparkling wine produced via bottle fermentation, just like Champagne, but originating from regions outside of Champagne. Vinoscout offers over 30 Crémants from the Loire Valley, Limoux, Burgundy, Bordeaux, Alsace, and Languedoc-Roussillon, ranging from dry to luscious, with the designations Crémant, AOC, AOP, and IGP.
Style & Taste
Most Crémants in our range are produced as dry to brut, with a fine perlage from bottle fermentation and a refreshing acidity that varies depending on the origin. Crémant from Alsace often displays aromas of green apple and pear, shaped by Pinot Blanc and Riesling. Crémant from the Loire Valley, usually made from Chenin Blanc or Cabernet Franc, brings stone fruit and citrus notes with a clear, mineral structure.
Crémant de Limoux, often with a Chardonnay component, is frequently somewhat creamier and denser on the palate. Burgundian Crémant can be shaped by Chardonnay and is stylistically reminiscent of an uncomplicated Blanc de Blancs. Luscious variants can also be found in the range, for example as a digestif or with fruity desserts. The alcohol content for all styles is between 11 and 13% vol.
Which Crémant suits whom
Entry level (under €15): This level makes up about a third of the range and is suitable for anyone looking for an uncomplicated Crémant as an aperitif or for a social evening. Here you will find Crémants from the Loire Valley, Limoux, Bordeaux, and Alsace, classically as Crémant AOC or IGP, from producers such as Sieur d'Arques, Bouvet Ladubay, Castel Châteaux & Grands Crus, and Wolfberger.
Mid-range (€15–20): Also about a third of the range, intended for those looking for a bit more depth and structure. This price level is shaped by regions such as the Loire Valley, Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Languedoc-Roussillon, with designations such as Crémant AOP or AOC, from producers such as Veuve Ambal, Louis Despas, Ackerman, and Langlois.
Premium (from €20): About a quarter of the range, for those looking for a festive Crémant with a particularly long bottle fermentation. Here, the Loire Valley, Alsace, Limoux, and Languedoc-Roussillon define the picture, with producers such as Bouvet Ladubay, Langlois, Gérard Bertrand, and Wolfberger.
Origin & Subcategories
Crémant comes from various French regions, each with its own designation and grape variety profile. Represented in the range are Loire, Burgundy, Alsace, Limoux, Bordeaux, and Languedoc.
Those interested in the grape varieties behind the Crémant will find a suitable selection under Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc. Those who want to discover French sparkling wine in general can continue browsing under France. About 3% of the Crémants in the range come from organic farming.
Pairs well with
Crémant is a classic aperitif wine that also goes well with seafood, oysters, and light fish. It unobtrusively accompanies courses of salad, antipasti, or poultry, as well as vegetarian dishes. Luscious variants are suitable as a conclusion to a social evening.
