Complete Guide to the Charmat Method: How Sparkling Wine is Made
The Charmat method, also known as the Martinotti method, is a sparkling wine production technique that has revolutionized the wine world. In this article, we will explore this fascinating process in detail, discovering how those fizzy bubbles that we love so much are obtained.
What is the Charmat method?
The Charmat method is a sparkling wine making process that involves refermenting the base wine in large pressurized containers called autoclaves. This method differs from the more traditional classic method (or champenoise) for its ability to preserve the fresh and fruity aromas of the wine, creating lively and vivacious sparkling wines.
History of the Charmat Method
The method takes its name from Eugène Charmat, a French oenologist who perfected and patented this technique in 1907. However, the original idea is attributed to the Italian Federico Martinotti, who first devised this system in 1895. For this reason, in Italy, the method is often called Martinotti-Charmat.
The step by step process
- Production of the base wine : We start with a still wine, usually young and fresh.
- Preparation of the cuvée : The base wine is mixed with selected yeasts and sugars (liqueur de tirage).
- Autoclave fermentation : The mixture is introduced into large pressurized tanks (autoclaves) where the second fermentation takes place. This process generally lasts from 1 to 6 months, depending on the type of sparkling wine desired.
- Pressure and temperature control : During fermentation, pressure and temperature are constantly monitored to ensure the quality of the final product.
- Filtration : Once the desired level of pressure and alcohol has been reached, the sparkling wine is filtered to remove any yeast residue.
- Dosage : If necessary, "dosage syrup" is added to adjust the sweetness level of the sparkling wine.
- Bottling : The sparkling wine is finally bottled under pressure, preserving its characteristic bubbles.
Advantages of the Charmat Method
- Preservation of aromas : Ideal for aromatic vines such as Prosecco or Pecorino.
- Lower production costs : Compared to the classic method, it requires less time and labor.
- Product consistency : Allows the production of large quantities of sparkling wine with consistent characteristics.
Our Pecorino Brut Sparkling Wine "Vellus"
At Cantina Margiotta, we chose the Charmat method for our Spumante Pecorino Brut "Vellus" because it best enhances the characteristics of the Pecorino grape variety. This method allows us to create a fresh and lively sparkling wine, with an intense aromatic bouquet and a fine and persistent perlage.
The result is a sparkling wine that best expresses the qualities of Pecorino, offering a unique tasting experience that reflects the excellence of our production and the winning choice of the Charmat method to enhance the peculiarities of this native vine.
Conclusion
The Charmat method represents a significant innovation in the world of sparkling wine, offering a valid alternative to the classic method. Its ability to preserve the freshness and aroma of the vines makes it particularly suitable for the production of young and fruity sparkling wines.
If you want to experience the excellence of the Charmat method, we invite you to taste our Spumante Pecorino Brut "Vellus". Its fine and persistent bubbles, together with its aromatic bouquet, will make you fully appreciate the advantages of this sparkling wine making technique.