Traditional Method

The traditional method, also known as méthode champenoise, is the process of creating sparkling wine through a second fermentation that occurs in the bottle. This method involves ageing the wine on its lees (yeast cells), riddling (gradual turning of bottles), and disgorging to remove sediment, followed by corking. It is labour-intensive but produces wines with refined bubbles, creamy textures, and complex, yeasty notes associated with high-quality sparkling wines like Champagne.