Sparkling: The Story Of Champagne

Sparkling: The Story Of Champagne chronicles the enchanting journey of champagne production from the vineyard to the bottle, revealing the rich history, labor of love, and expertise that make this luxurious beverage synonymous with celebration and indulgence. Documentary filmmaker François Roulot embarks on a scenic exploration, traversing the picturesque countryside of France, the rolling hills of Champagne-Ardenne, and the storied houses of champagne production to unravel the mysteries surrounding this effervescent elixir. As the journey unfolds, the viewer is immersed in an intimate world of winegrowers, cellar masters, and artisans working tirelessly to create an unforgettable champagne experience. The film commences at a vineyard, where rows of delicate Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes sway gently in the autumn breeze, awaiting the harvest. It is here, amidst the rustling leaves and buzzing bees, that the foundation of champagne's signature flavor profile is laid. Roulot spends hours observing the skilled vignerons delicately selecting the finest bunches of grapes, meticulously hand-picked at dawn and transported to be transformed into the raw materials of their craft. The next stage of the champagne-making process unfolds at the press house, where ancient wooden presses gently crush the fruit to release its juices. The musts are then transported to the chai, a labyrinthine cellar where a team of artisans carefully monitors the fermentation process, coaxing the natural yeast present on the grape skins to convert the sugar into a complex tapestry of acids and aromas. As the musts mature, Roulot introduces the viewer to a succession of vignettes showcasing the traditional practices of champagne making. We witness cellar master Jean-Marc Lhuisset delicately raking the chalk walls of his cellars to maintain a temperature ideal for fermentation, his eyes gazing lovingly at the majestic oak barrels that impart their signature character to his champagnes. In the heart of Reims, one of the world's great cathedral cities, lies the fabled cellars of Pommery Champagne House. Roulot's cameras capture the mesmerizing ritual of remuage (riddling), where bottles are laid horizontally and carefully rotated to bring the sediment into contact with the cork. It is here, amidst the vaulted arches and dimly lit corridors, that champagne's magic truly unfolds. Throughout the documentary, the cinematic experience is enhanced by stunning vistas of the French countryside, shot from a hot air balloon soaring above the vineyards at dawn. As the balloon rises, the sun casts a golden glow on the rolling hills, and the landscape unfolds like a verdant tapestry. In this idyllic setting, it becomes clear that the very essence of champagne lies in its connection to the land, the seasons, and the people who cultivate and create it. Throughout the narrative, Roulot also delves into the intricate science behind champagne's famous effervescence. The process of dégorgement, where the sediment is removed and a small amount of new wine is added, is illustrated through a captivating close-up of a bottle under pressure. As the sediment flies out, Roulot explains the complex balance required to preserve the precise proportion of carbon dioxide within the bottle, creating that singular sensation when the cork is finally popped. The latter stages of the documentary reveal the champagne houses' meticulous packaging process. Roulot captures the delicate dance of a skilled 'femme de champagne,' as she meticulously labels and caps each bottle by hand, imbuing the viewer with an appreciation for the meticulous care and devotion poured into every aspect of the champagne-making process. Ultimately, Sparkling: The Story Of Champagne presents a captivating portrait of the world's most revered beverage, revealing the intricate dance of art, science, and craftsmanship involved in transforming delicate grapes into an enduring and intoxicating drink. This visually stunning documentary not only educates the viewer on the intricacies of champagne production but also inspires the senses, elevating the film to a love letter to the people, the land, and the timeless pleasure of champagne itself.