If you love sparkling wine but haven’t yet discovered Crémant, you’re in for a treat. Crémant is France’s best-kept fizz secret: a delicious sparkling wine made using the same traditional methods as Champagne, but typically at a fraction of the price. Produced in several French wine regions such as Alsace, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley, Crémant offers superb quality, flavour, and character. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Crémant—including what it is, how it’s made, the different regional styles, and how to choose the perfect bottle.
Discover our Range of Crémants
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£38.99Englands only home-produced Crémant! The late Steven Spurrier and his wife Arabella established Bride Valley, located in West Dorset, which continues to be run by the Spurrier family. Steven, while running Les Caves de la Madeleine and L’Académie du Vin in Paris in the 1980s, had chalky soil samples from […]
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Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc de Blancs | Vignerons de Mancey | Chardonnay, Aligoté | Burgundy | France
£21.99The Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc de Blancs is a lively sparkling wine, very fresh on the nose and very fine and delicate on the palate. Its very delicate, long-lasting mousse makes it particularly elegant.
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£20.99One of the Loire’s most lauded producers, Florent Baumard has courted controversy by pursuing his own ideas and challenging the status quo. In a deeply traditional region, Florent’s early adoption of screwcaps and different vine trellising systems marked him out as the enfant terrible of Savennières. His mantra now encompasses […]
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£41.99Our wine sets are perfect for picnics & festivals, dinner parties and gifting. Choose from either 2, 3 or 4 bottle options. Crémant de Bourgogne Brut Cuvée Tradition | Veuve Ambal | Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gamay, Aligoté | Burgundy | France Sparkling White Wine | 12% Becky Hewes Becky Says [...]
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We’ve put together a fantastic 3 Bottle Wine Set featuring some of the best examples of Crémant. It’s the perfect way to find the style and terroir you like the best.
How is Crémant Made?
Crémant is made using the méthode traditionnelle, the same process used in Champagne. This involves a two-stage fermentation, with the second fermentation happening in the bottle to naturally create the wine’s bubbles. After the base wine is made, a mixture of yeast and sugar (liqueur de tirage) is added before the wine is sealed and left to ferment again. During this time, carbon dioxide is trapped in the bottle, producing the fine bubbles that make Crémant so enjoyable.
A key part of the process is aging the wine on its lees—the spent yeast cells—for a minimum of nine months. This adds complexity, giving Crémant its characteristic creamy texture and subtle toasty notes. To maintain quality, all grapes used for Crémant must be harvested by hand, and production yields are strictly controlled. These regulations help ensure that Crémant consistently delivers a high standard of sparkling wine, making it a fantastic alternative to Champagne.
Why is Crémant Different to Champagne and Other Sparklers?
Crémant may be made using the same méthode traditionnelle as Champagne, but because it’s produced outside the Champagne region, it cannot carry the Champagne name. However, Crémant is still subject to strict AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) regulations, ensuring high-quality production while often offering better value.
The name Crémant comes from the French word for “creamy”—a reference to its historical style, which had slightly lower pressure and softer bubbles than Champagne. While modern Crémant is fully sparkling, it still retains a distinct identity due to its regional grape varieties and terroir. This means Crémant delivers the finesse and craftsmanship of Champagne but with its own local twist—and usually at a more wallet-friendly price.
Watch Becky’s chat with Virginie Loreau from Crémant de Bourgogne producer, Vignerons de Mancey
History of Crémant
Timeline of Key Dates in Crémant History
- 1531 – Monks at the Abbey of Saint-Hilaire in Limoux produce the first recorded sparkling wine in France, predating Champagne.
- Mid-20th century – Crémant is used in Champagne to denote lower-pressure “creamy” sparkling wines (the term means “creamy” in French)
- 1975 – First official Crémant AOCs are established: Crémant de Loire and Crémant de Bourgogne
- 1976 – Crémant d’Alsace is recognised as an AOC, marking Crémant’s rise in Alsace.
- 1989 – EU regulation (EC 2045/89) reserves the term Crémant exclusively for quality traditional-method sparkling wines from specified regions outside Champagne
- 1990 – Crémant de Bordeaux and Crémant de Limoux are introduced as new appellations following the EU rule change
- 1991 – Luxembourg launches Crémant de Luxembourg, becoming the only country outside France allowed to use the term Crémant
- 1993 – Crémant de Die (Rhone Valley) is awarded AOC status for its sparkling wines
- 1995 – Crémant du Jura gains AOC recognition, adding Jura’s sparkling wines to the Crémant family
- 2008 – Belgium introduces Crémant de Wallonie as a protected designation (AOP) for traditional-method sparkling wine in Wallonia
- 2014 – Crémant de Savoie becomes France’s newest Crémant AOC, bringing the total to eight Crémant regions in France
Crémant vs Champagne vs Prosecco vs Cava
| Crémant | Champagne | Prosecco | Cava | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Production Method | Traditional method (bottle-fermented, aged on lees for min. 9 months) | Traditional method (bottle-fermented, aged on lees for min. 12 months for non-vintage, 36 months for vintage) | Tank method (Charmat) – second fermentation in stainless steel tanks | Traditional method (bottle-fermented, min. 9 months on lees) |
| Bubbles | Fine and persistent | Very fine and persistent | Frothy, larger bubbles | Fine and persistent |
| Grape Varieties | Varies by region (e.g., Chardonnay, Pinot Noir in Bourgogne; Chenin Blanc in Loire; Riesling, Pinot Blanc in Alsace) | Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier | Glera | Macabeo, Xarel-lo, Parellada (some use Chardonnay, Pinot Noir) |
| Region | Eight French AOCs (Alsace, Bourgogne, Loire, Limoux, Bordeaux, Die, Jura, Savoie) | Champagne region, France | Veneto, Italy (Prosecco DOC and DOCG) | Catalonia, Spain (mainly Penedès region) |
| Legal Status | AOC-regulated, must include region name (e.g., Crémant de Loire) | AOC-regulated, strict rules on production | DOC or DOCG-regulated | DO (Denominación de Origen) regulated |
| Aging Requirement | Min. 9 months on lees | Min. 12 months (non-vintage), 36 months (vintage) | Usually no lees aging | Min. 9 months (Reserva: 15 months, Gran Reserva: 30 months) |
| Taste & Style | Varies by region; can be fresh and fruity or more complex with bready, toasty notes | High acidity, citrus, apple, brioche, nutty | Light, floral, fruity (pear, apple, peach) | Dry, citrusy, crisp, with light yeastiness |
| Bubble Texture | Elegant, Champagne-like | Most refined and delicate | Light, frothy | Fine bubbles, similar to Crémant |
| Price & Market | Affordable alternative to Champagne, excellent quality-to-price ratio | Premium, most expensive sparkling wine | Most affordable, everyday drinking, cocktails | Excellent value, good quality at lower prices than Champagne |
Crémant Wine Regions
Crémant de Bourgogne (Burgundy, Central-Eastern France)
- Established in 1975, drawing on Burgundy’s noble grapes.
- Grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir (dominant), with some Gamay, Aligoté, Pinot Gris.
- Style: Can resemble Champagne, with citrus, apple, and creamy textures from Chardonnay.
- Cooler northern areas (Auxerre/Chablis) produce more zesty, mineral-driven styles; warmer southern areas (Côte Chalonnaise) yield fuller-bodied, richer sparklers.
- Quality tiers include Eminent (aged 24+ months on lees) and Grand Eminent (36+ months, made only from Pinot Noir & Chardonnay, Brut level).
Crémant de Loire (Loire Valley, France)
- Produced mainly in Saumur, Anjou, and Touraine, with a long history of fine sparkling wines.
- Grapes: Chenin Blanc (main), Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc (for rosé), plus some Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Grolleau.
- Style: High acidity, mineral-driven with yellow apple, quince, floral notes, and a crisp texture.
- Rosé versions showcase red berry notes from Cabernet Franc.
- Sauvignon Blanc is not allowed in Crémant de Loire, unlike in Crémant de Bordeaux.
Crémant du Jura (Jura, Eastern France)
- Small but distinctive Crémant-producing region with alpine influences.
- Grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, plus local Poulsard, Trousseau, and Savagnin.
- Style: Lively acidity with nutty, spicy, and floral mountain flavours.
- Unique and often harder to find outside France.
Crémant de Die (Rhône Valley, SE France)
- Rare Crémant from the Rhône, made primarily from Clairette Blanche.
- Style: Delicate and aromatic, with pear, citrus, and herbal notes.
- Less commonly found but worth trying for something different
Crémant de Luxembourg (Luxembourg, Moselle Valley)
- The only non-French Crémant, made under strict traditional-method regulations.
- Grapes: Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Elbling, Chardonnay.
- Style: Crisp and elegant with bright acidity and mineral-driven flavours.
- High-quality sparkling wines, often overlooked outside Luxembourg.
Crémant d’Alsace (Alsace, NE France)
- Largest Crémant-producing region, making over 50% of all French Crémant.
- Grapes: Pinot Blanc (main), Auxerrois, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir.
- Style: Fresh, floral, and fruity with crisp acidity and notes of apple, pear, peach, and citrus.
- Rosé Crémant d’Alsace must be 100% Pinot Noir, giving bright berry flavours.
- Popular as an aperitif and extremely versatile with food
Crémant de Limoux (Languedoc, Southern France)
- One of France’s oldest sparkling wine regions, dating back to 1531 (predates Champagne).
- Grapes: Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, local Mauzac, and Pinot Noir.
- Style: Bright and citrusy with a clean mineral profile and orchard fruit notes.
- Mauzac (a local grape) can add an appley, slightly rustic note.
- Produced in high-altitude foothills, balancing ripeness with freshness.
Crémant de Bordeaux (Bordeaux, SW France)
- Uses Bordeaux grape varieties, giving a regional twist to sparkling wine.
- Grapes: Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle (white); Merlot, Cabernet Franc (rosé).
- Style: White versions have classic Bordeaux fruit flavours with a crisp, elegant finish.
- Rosé versions often feature red currant and herbal notes from Cabernet Franc.
Crémant de Savoie (Savoie, Alpine France)
- Made in the mountainous Savoie region, using local grape varieties.
- Grapes: Jacquère, Altesse, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir.
- Style: Very light, floral, and fresh with an alpine minerality.
- Lesser-known but a great choice for those who enjoy crisp, elegant sparklers.
Market Trends & Popularity of Crémant
Crémant has carved out a loyal and growing audience, attracting both savvy wine lovers and those simply looking for a good-quality fizz without the Champagne price tag. It appeals to people who appreciate the elegance of traditional-method sparkling wines but don’t want to pay a premium for a prestigious name. More and more, consumers who might have automatically picked Prosecco or an entry-level Champagne for a celebration are turning to Crémant as a high-quality alternative that delivers just as much sparkle and sophistication. In France, it’s widely embraced across generations—young adults raising a glass at casual gatherings, families celebrating together, and wine enthusiasts exploring different regional expressions. For many, Crémant isn’t just a budget-friendly option but an opportunity to experience sparkling wines from some of France’s most respected wine regions.
One of the biggest factors driving Crémant’s rise is simple economics. Champagne prices have continued to climb, with some bottles becoming increasingly out of reach for everyday enjoyment. At the same time, people still want to celebrate with a bottle of something special, whether it’s a wedding, New Year’s toast, or just a weekend dinner. Crémant has positioned itself as the perfect solution, offering the finesse of traditional bottle fermentation at a fraction of the cost. In fact, sales figures tell a compelling story: in 2023, French supermarkets sold nearly as many bottles of Crémant as they did Champagne—29.6 million compared to 29.7 million. When faced with the choice of one bottle of Champagne or two or three bottles of well-made Crémant for the same price, many consumers are opting for the latter.
Beyond affordability, Crémant is gaining momentum simply because more people are discovering how good it is. It’s now one of the fastest-growing categories in the sparkling wine market, with global sales reaching 108.1 million bottles in 2023, marking a steady year-on-year increase. While Champagne remains the ultimate luxury sparkling, Crémant is no longer a well-kept secret. Around 40% of its production is now exported, meeting demand from international markets eager for quality alternatives to Champagne. Some regions, like Crémant d’Alsace, have seen particularly strong growth, selling over 40 million bottles in 2023 alone—an impressive 20% increase over five years. Even newer Crémant-producing areas, such as Bordeaux, have experienced rapid expansion in both production and sales. Meanwhile, Champagne’s growth has slowed in some years, suggesting a shift in consumer habits as people explore sparkling wine beyond the big-name labels.
Today, Crémant occupies an important space in the wine market, sitting comfortably in the mid-premium category. It offers a step up from mass-produced Prosecco or generic sparkling wines while remaining more accessible than Champagne. This has caught the attention of restaurants and wine bars, where it’s increasingly offered by the glass as a sophisticated yet budget-friendly alternative. Sommeliers and retailers are also championing it, often introducing Champagne drinkers to Crémant as a comparable but more affordable option. Many who give it a try are pleasantly surprised—some even find they prefer its balance and regional character over certain Champagnes.
Far from being just a second-choice sparkling wine, Crémant is now firmly in the spotlight. Consumers are no longer just looking for the most famous name on the bottle; they’re seeking quality, craftsmanship, and value. Crémant delivers all three, making it one of the most exciting categories in the sparkling wine world today.
How to Choose a Good Crémant
With so many regions and producers, choosing a great Crémant can feel overwhelming. But with a few simple tips, you can easily find a bottle that suits your taste and occasion.
Think About the Region
Each Crémant region has its own style, so it helps to know what you enjoy. If you love crisp, refined Champagne, Crémant de Bourgogne is a natural choice, as it’s made from the same key grapes—Chardonnay and Pinot Noir—and often has a similarly elegant profile. If you prefer something a little more floral and aromatic, Crémant d’Alsace is a great option, with its fruity charm and orchard-fruit notes. Crémant de Loire is ideal for those who enjoy lively acidity and minerality, thanks to its Chenin Blanc base, while Crémant de Limoux offers a fresh southern French twist. Each region brings something unique, so exploring different styles can be part of the fun.
Read the Label for Clues
Crémant labels offer hints about quality and style. Some, like Crémant de Bourgogne “Eminent” or “Grand Eminent”, indicate longer lees aging (2–3 years), meaning finer bubbles and more complex flavours. If a bottle has a vintage year rather than the usual non-vintage blend, it can signal a higher-quality release. Most Crémants are labelled Brut, meaning dry, which tends to be the most balanced and widely preferred style. If you like something a little softer, Brut Nature (very dry) or Extra Brut might be worth trying.
Look for a Trusted Producer
Some well-known Crémant producers, like Lucien Albrecht (Alsace) or Veuve Ambal (Burgundy), have built a strong reputation for consistent quality. Many independent growers also produce excellent Crémant, often with more character and attention to detail. If you’re unsure, a good tip is to ask for recommendations in your local wine shop or look at reviews—many specialists will be happy to point you towards a well-made Crémant from a respected producer.
Consider the Price
One of the best things about Crémant is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get great quality. A £15–£25 bottle will usually offer excellent value, while premium Crémants aged for longer or from top producers might be closer to £30–£40. If a bottle is very cheap (under £10), it may still be enjoyable but likely quite basic. Unlike Champagne, where prices can quickly skyrocket, spending just a little more on a Crémant—say £5–£10 extra—can make a noticeable difference in quality, giving you finer bubbles and more depth of flavour.
Whether you’re looking for an alternative to Champagne, a midweek treat, or a sparkling wine with a regional twist, Crémant offers an excellent balance of quality, affordability, and variety. It’s well worth exploring—once you find a style you love, you may never look back!
Crémant Food Pairing Ideas
One of the best things about Crémant is its versatility with food. Just like Champagne, its high acidity and fine bubbles make it an excellent partner for a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re serving appetisers, seafood, cheese, or even dessert, there’s a Crémant to match.
Perfect with Nibbles & Salty Snacks
Crémant is a fantastic match for canapés, charcuterie, nuts, or anything salty or fried. The wine’s lively acidity and effervescence cleanse the palate, making it ideal alongside rich or crispy textures. Try pairing Brut Crémant with fried appetisers, potato chips, or even tempura—the contrast between the salt and the refreshing bubbles creates an irresistible balance.
A Natural Partner for Seafood
Sparkling wines and seafood are a match made in heaven, and Crémant is no exception. Oysters, prawns, lobster, and sushi all shine alongside a crisp Crémant de Loire or Crémant d’Alsace, whose bright acidity complements the fresh, briny flavours of the sea. For richer seafood dishes, such as butter-poached scallops or creamy fish dishes, a more structured Crémant de Bourgogne is a great choice, adding depth without overpowering the dish.
A Classic with Cheese
Crémant and cheese pair effortlessly, thanks to the wine’s acidity, which cuts through rich, creamy textures. Brie and Camembert pair beautifully with a Brut Crémant, as the bubbles lift the richness of the cheese while complementing its earthy rind. Goat’s cheese (chèvre), especially when served with fresh herbs or honey, is a wonderful match for Crémant d’Alsace or Crémant de Loire, where a touch of fruitiness balances the cheese’s tang. Harder cheeses like Parmesan or aged Gouda can also work well with fuller-bodied Crémants.
Pairing with Main Courses
Because there are many styles of Crémant, it can be enjoyed throughout a meal. A lighter Blanc de Blancs-style Crémant (made primarily from white grapes) pairs wonderfully with poultry, quiches, fresh salads, or seafood dishes. For roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or mushroom-based vegetarian dishes, a more structured Crémant de Bourgogne or a rich Chenin Blanc-based Crémant de Loire can hold up to the flavours. Rosé Crémant, made from red grapes like Pinot Noir or Cabernet Franc, is also an excellent food wine, pairing well with grilled salmon, smoked duck, or even spiced Asian dishes.
Pairing with Spicy or Sweet Dishes
For dishes with a bit of heat, such as spicy Thai or Indian curries, a demi-sec (off-dry) Crémant can help balance the spice, as a touch of sweetness counteracts the heat. While Brut Crémant isn’t ideal for very sweet desserts, it does work well with fruit tarts, shortbread biscuits, or lemon-based puddings. A Crémant d’Alsace with a peach tart or a Crémant de Loire with a classic tarte Tatin (apple tart) can be a delightful way to end a meal.
Crémant’s ability to pair with a variety of foods makes it a brilliant all-rounder, whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a special celebration. If in doubt, just open a bottle—chances are, it will match something on the table!
Serving Crémant: Getting the Best Experience
To truly enjoy Crémant at its best, treat it much like you would a fine Champagne. A little attention to temperature, glassware, and pouring technique can make all the difference in how it tastes and feels in the glass.
The Right Temperature
Crémant should be served well chilled, between 7–10°C (45–50°F). Too warm, and the bubbles feel flabby, while the wine can taste less crisp; too cold, and you’ll mute its delicate aromas and flavours. The best approach is to chill the bottle in the fridge for at least three hours before serving. If you need to chill it faster, an ice bucket with ice and water for 20–30 minutes will do the trick.
Choosing the Right Glass
While flutes are a popular choice for sparkling wine, they aren’t necessarily the best for Crémant. Many experts recommend a tulip-shaped glass or even a white wine glass, as these allow the wine to express its aromas better while still preserving the bubbles. A flute captures the effervescence beautifully but can limit how much of the wine’s character you experience. On the other hand, avoid the old-fashioned wide “coupe” glasses, as they allow the bubbles to dissipate too quickly, leaving the wine flat before you’ve finished your glass.
Pouring Like a Pro
To retain the fizz and prevent overflowing, pour Crémant slowly down the side of the glass at an angle, much like you would with beer. This helps control foaminess and keeps more carbonation in the wine. Aim to fill each glass no more than two-thirds full, giving space for the aromas to develop and preventing spills.
Opening the Bottle the Right Way
A properly opened bottle of Crémant shouldn’t explode with a dramatic pop—it should release with a soft hiss. To open it safely, keep the bottle pointed away from people and valuables, and don’t twist the cork—twist the bottle instead. Once you remove the foil, keep the metal cage on for grip, hold the cork firmly, and gently ease it out. A slow release avoids losing precious bubbles and prevents the wine from gushing out unexpectedly.
Storing an Open Bottle
If you don’t finish the bottle in one sitting, you can keep it fresh for up to two days. Use a Champagne stopper to maintain the pressure and store it in the fridge. While Crémant is always best when freshly opened, a good bottle will still hold onto some fizz the next day if properly sealed—though the bubbles may soften slightly.
Enjoy the Moment
Crémant is made to bring people together, whether it’s for a special celebration or just an ordinary weeknight that needs a little sparkle. Serving it with care—well chilled, in the right glass, and poured with finesse—ensures that every sip is as enjoyable as it should be. However you drink it, make sure to raise a glass and enjoy this brilliant French fizz. Santé!
Conclusion
Crémant is one of France’s best-kept secrets—a sparkling wine that delivers elegance, quality, and craftsmanship at a fraction of the price of Champagne. With its rich regional diversity, traditional bottle fermentation, and growing popularity, it’s no surprise that more people are choosing Crémant for both celebrations and everyday enjoyment. Whether you prefer the crisp minerality of Crémant de Loire, the refined balance of Crémant de Bourgogne, or the aromatic charm of Crémant d’Alsace, there’s a style to suit every taste.
Next time you’re looking for a bottle of bubbles, why not explore the world of Crémant? It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the finesse of French sparkling wine without the premium price tag. Serve it well chilled, pair it with great food, and savour the moment. Cheers!