Watch A Year in Champagne

A Year in Champagne is a captivating and educational documentary film that takes you on a journey through the process of making champagne. Directed by David Kennard, this film is a follow-up to his previous film, A Year in Burgundy, which follows the wine-making process in that region of France. A Year in Champagne picks up where the previous film left off, focusing on the complex and fascinating process that is involved in the production of the world-famous champagne.

The film features interviews with various champagne producers, winemakers, and experts in the field. The film opens with an introduction to the history and culture of champagne, explaining why it is so highly valued and how it has become one of the most popular and prestigious wines in the world. It then delves into the process of champagne production, from the initial stages of selecting the grapes to the final bottling and aging process.

Throughout the film, we meet several champagne producers, including Xavier Gonet, whose family has been producing champagne for generations. We also meet Martine Saunier, an American importer who specializes in importing champagne to the United States. These individuals share their knowledge and expertise, taking us through the different regions of Champagne, France and the climate, soil, and vineyard conditions that help make each champagne unique.

One of the many fascinating aspects of A Year in Champagne is the depth of detail provided on the winemaking process. The audience is taken through the various steps of fermentation, blending, and aging that go into creating each bottle of champagne. The film also highlights that champagne is not just for celebrations but is a versatile drink that can be paired with many types of foods.

The film balances the technical aspects of wine production with the personal stories of the individuals who are involved in creating the champagne. We see how the personalities of the winemakers play a crucial role in the production process and how they strive to maintain the traditions and standards that have been passed down for generations.

A Year in Champagne is not just a film for wine enthusiasts. It is a visually stunning documentary that provides a rare glimpse into the beautiful countryside of Champagne and the people who work hard to create the perfect bubbly. The film conveys the passion and dedication required of those who make champagne and highlights the difficulty of maintaining traditions in a rapidly changing world.

In conclusion, A Year in Champagne is an excellent film that provides a comprehensive insight into the production of one of the world's most beloved and celebrated beverages. It balances the technical aspects of wine production with the personal stories of the winemakers and portrays the beauty and richness of the Champagne region. It is a film that engages and educates audiences of all backgrounds and interests and is a must-see for anyone interested in the world of wine.

A Year in Champagne is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.