Introduction
Champagne is one of the most sought-after bubbly beverages in the world. As a result, it has many varieties that vary in flavor, sweetness, and complexity. Two of the most popular types of champagne are Brut and Extra Dry Champagne. Although they are both dry sparkling wines, there are several key differences between them. In this article, we will discuss what makes Brut and Extra Dry Champagne unique from one another and how to choose the right type for your next gathering.
What is Brut Champagne?
Brut Champagne is known as the driest type of champagne. It is made with a combination of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay grapes and has no added sugar. It has a crisp, acidic flavor with a light body and a dry finish. Brut champagnes have an alcohol content of 12-13% and typically range from $30-$75 per bottle.
What is Extra Dry Champagne?
Extra Dry Champagne is slightly sweeter than Brut Champagne. It is made with the same grapes and has an alcohol content of 12-13% as well. However, it is slightly sweeter than Brut Champagne due to the addition of a small amount of sugar. Extra Dry Champagnes typically range from $25-$50 per bottle.
Taste Differences
The main difference between Brut and Extra Dry Champagne is the sweetness level. Brut Champagne is known for its dry flavor profile, while Extra Dry Champagne has a slightly sweet taste. Brut Champagne has a crisp and acidic flavor, while Extra Dry Champagne has a slight hint of sweetness with a smooth finish.
Food Pairings
When choosing between Brut and Extra Dry Champagne, it’s important to consider what dishes you will be serving. Brut Champagne pairs well with heavier dishes such as steak, duck, and game. On the other hand, Extra Dry Champagne is best served with lighter dishes such as seafood, salads, and sushi.
Conclusion
When selecting the right champagne for your next gathering, it is important to consider the difference between Brut and Extra Dry Champagne. Brut Champagne is known for its dry, crisp flavor and is best paired with heavier dishes. Extra Dry Champagne, on the other hand, has a slightly sweet taste and is best served with lighter dishes. Ultimately, the type of champagne you choose will depend on the food you will be serving and the occasion.
What is Brut Champagne?
Brut Champagne is a type of sparkling wine that is produced in the Champagne region of France. This type of sparkling wine is typically made using a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay grapes. The grapes are harvested in the fall and then fermented to create the base wine. The base wine is then blended with a liqueur de tirage, which consists of sugar and yeast, to create the sparkling wine. Finally, the sparkling wine is aged in the bottle for at least 15 months in order to develop its complexity and flavor. The sugar content of Brut Champagne is typically between 12-15 grams per liter, giving it a dry and crisp taste.
What is Extra Dry Champagne?
Extra Dry Champagne is also a type of sparkling wine that is produced in the Champagne region of France. This type of sparkling wine is also typically made using a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay grapes. The grapes are harvested in the fall and then fermented to create the base wine. The base wine is then blended with a liqueur de tirage, which consists of sugar and yeast, to create the sparkling wine. Finally, the sparkling wine is aged in the bottle for at least 15 months in order to develop its complexity and flavor. The sugar content of Extra Dry Champagne is typically between 17-32 grams per liter, giving it a sweeter and smoother taste than Brut Champagne.
The Difference Between Brut and Extra Dry Champagne
The main difference between Brut and Extra Dry Champagne is in the amount of sugar that is used to make them. Brut Champagne has a sugar content of 12-15 grams per liter, while Extra Dry Champagne has a sugar content of 17-32 grams per liter. This difference in sugar content results in Brut Champagne having a dry and crisp taste, while Extra Dry Champagne is sweeter and smoother. Additionally, Brut Champagne tends to have more acidity and a higher alcohol content than Extra Dry Champagne.