Translating a Sparkling Wine Label?

As with the production of a sparkling wine, the descriptions also carry traditional terminology that can be confusing.

Just below the words Domaine Ste. Michelle is the style, which indicates whether the wine is dry or sweet. Sound simple? Not really. History has made it so styles are not as they seem.

Extra dry vs. Brut
Extra Dry is actually the sweetest in the Domaine Ste. Michelle family. As legend goes, the French engaged in a bit of trickery in the mid-nineteenth centry. The British were known for their love of sweet wine. Seeing potential, French winemakers began making their Extra Dry wines sweeter to catch the British palate and trick it into thinking they’d like their wines drier.

Blanc de Blanc vs. Blanc de Noir
These names refer to the type of grapes used. Blanc de Blanc is generally made from Chardonnay grapes. Blanc de Noir is made from Pinot Noir, giving it the rosy color.

Méthode Champenoise - What is it?