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Buy Champagne on Auction
Champagne is more than just a sparkling wine – it symbolizes joy, togetherness, and celebration. Whether it's a grand event or a simple occasion to create a moment of happiness, Champagne is always an excellent choice.
At ShareWine, you'll always find an exciting selection of extraordinary Champagnes for sale on auction. Whether you're looking for new exciting bottles or that special dream bottle, you won't be disappointed with the extensive range available for sale from private collectors.
See the current Champagne auctions.
Read more about Champagne
Champagne is undoubtedly the world's most famous and coveted sparkling wine. A protected trademark, it ensures that only wine from the Champagne region in northern France can be called Champagne. Fascinated by Champagne? Make sure you also read our Masterclass on Champagne.
Champagne is also subject to strict rules regarding the production of these golden drops to comply with the wine laws within the Champagne appellation. The rules cover both vineyard and cellar work. Champagne can be made from specific grape varieties, which must be grown within a designated geographical area. Afterward, Champagne undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle, where the wine rests for at least 12 months "sur lie," or on the lees, followed by at least 15 months in the bottle. These rules are just a few of the many regulations that exist and must be adhered to if the wine is to earn the prestigious title on its label.
I could not live without Champagne. In victory I deserve it, in defeaut I need it. Napoleon Bonaparte.
The History of Champagne
The history of Champagne dates back several centuries. It was the monks in medieval monasteries in Champagne who first began to experiment with making sparkling wine. Over the years, Champagne became known for its distinctiveness and high quality, quickly becoming a favorite at royal and noble courts across Europe.
Today, Champagne is beloved worldwide and can rightly be called a global phenomenon that has influenced other sparkling wine styles in terms of demand and trends. Champagne is a classic symbol of elegance and refinement.
Champagne as an Investment
Champagne has proven to be an excellent investment, especially as its popularity continues to rise, and consumption remains high. According to the global Champagne 50 index, the value of Champagne has increased by more than 75% since 2018.
Keep an eye out for the next Champagne auction and see which rare bottles are currently for sale.
Grapes Used in Champagne
Champagne is primarily produced from the grape varieties Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. These three are blended in various combinations to achieve a specific style and expression. In addition, there are four very rare and almost secretive grape varieties; Pinot Blanc, Petit Meslier, Pinot Gris, and Arbanne, which historically were used more extensively but today only on a smaller scale.
Grower Champagne
There are countless stories about the origin of Champagne. One of the most famous must be the story of the monk Dom Pierre Perignon, who is believed to have played a significant role in creating the consistent and tightly controlled sparkling wine we know today – and this back in the 18th century.
That being said, Champagne is undergoing rapid development, especially over the last 15-20 years. New generations, inheriting coveted plots of land from their ancestors, are increasingly choosing to produce the wine themselves rather than selling the carefully cultivated grapes to large commercial houses/brands (such as Dom Perignon, Cristal, Moet & Chandon, Bollinger, Salon, Krug, Pol Roger, Taittinger, Deutz, Veuve Clicquot, and more). These are referred to as the grower generation. They produce from their own vineyards, often only a few thousand bottles,
Among the growers, some of the most well-known and hyped names include; Jacques Selosse, Cedric Bouchard / Roses de Jeanne, Ulysse Collin, Marguet, Frederic Savart, David Leclapart, Agrapart, and Jerome Prevost.
All tremendously exciting producers, who unfortunately are nearly impossible to find on the market, but are often available at auction on ShareWine.
Champagne Classification
As in other French regions, Champagne also has a strict classification system. The best vineyards are classified as either Premier Cru or Grand Cru – just as it is known from Burgundy. In Champagne, it is the vineyards that are ranked, not the producers, as is the case in Bordeaux. Most major producers make a so-called non-vintage Champagne, typically blended from 2-3 vintages to achieve a consistent quality and a style that characterizes the house.
Furthermore, most houses also produce one or more different vintage Champagnes. Champagne from a specific year, intended to reflect that vintage's unique characteristics. Vintage Champagne is typically produced only in the better years.
Another well-known type of Champagne is Rosé Champagne, often characterized by a delicate and fine color achieved by blending or direct pressing of the grapes, where the must is in contact with the skins. Rosé Champagne is made both as a vintage and as a non-vintage. Both non-vintage and vintage can be of both Premier Cru and Grand Cru quality, as long as the grape material used comes exclusively from vineyards of that status.
Finally, there are a number of prestige cuvées, ranging from single vineyard cuvées. Among the very famous is Krug's Clos de Mesnil, derived from a highly renowned walled parcel within the Grand Cru vineyard of Le Mesnil. Likewise, Pol Roger's flagship, Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill, named after the famous English Prime Minister of the same name, as he was fond of drinking Champagne from Pol Roger.
Champagne is always a great experience and the ultimate wine to celebrate a special occasion – remember to share it with those you hold dear. This is precisely one of the core ideas behind ShareWine.
Here on the marketplace, you can always find many exciting Champagne auctions, both from growers and the classic prestigious houses. The selection is lavish and always includes various styles and young as well as older bottles, which can be nearly impossible to find elsewhere. So don't miss out on seeing what's for sale from private collectors. We can confidently promise that your next great Champagne experience is within reach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Champagne
The Champagne region is located in northeastern France. Unlike many southern wine regions, the microclimate here is cool enough to create the perfect conditions for producing great sparkling wines. Slow ripening is necessary to maintain a high acidity level in the grapes.
Champagne is an incredibly versatile wine and can be paired with many different dishes. More than you might think.
Champagne can, of course, be enjoyed as an aperitif, but due to its high acidity and bubbles, which help cleanse the palate and create balance, Champagne is actually very well-suited to a wide range of foods. It can accompany everything from seafood, oysters, sushi, and classic fish dishes to white meats, intense sauces, and cheese. Find the bottle for your next special occasion on one of the Champagne auctions here on the marketplace.
Quality Champagne can be stored for many years, as long as it is stored correctly at a constant temperature and away from light and vibrations. The flavors change character over time and if you haven't experienced mature Champagne yet, let us just say that aged Champagne is something truly special.
Champagne is a type of sparkling wine that can only be produced in a specific region in France using a special method called the "traditional method" or "Champagne method." The same principles apply to other types of sparkling wines. Their names often indicate a geographical origin or specific affiliation, such as Prosecco from Prosecco in Italy or Crémant from regions like Loire, Burgundy, or Alsace in France.
Winston Churchill was known to be a great admirer of Champagne. His favorite was from the prestigious producer Pol Roger. Churchill was actually known to have a close relationship with the brand. He was often seen with a cigar in hand and a glass of Pol Roger Champagne by his side. It is said that he was so fond of Pol Roger that he even drank it during the war, believing that it helped boost his morale and optimism.
Pol Roger has also expressed their gratitude and honor for Churchill's preference by creating a special dedicated cuvée known as "Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill," launched in 1984. This cuvée remains one of Pol Roger's most famous and prestigious Champagnes.
Although Winston Churchill had a preference for Pol Roger, it's worth noting that he also enjoyed Champagne from other prestigious houses such as Dom Pérignon and Krug.
James Bond is known for his sophisticated and refined taste, and he has a well-known preference for Champagne. In most James Bond films, he is seen enjoying Champagne from Bollinger. Bollinger is a large and respected Champagne producer known for high quality, with a long family history. It is said that James Bond's favorite Champagne from Bollinger is "Bollinger RD" (Récemment Dégorgé), an exclusive and well-matured Vintage Cuvée that spends many years in the cellar before being released.
Champagne should be served cool but not ice-cold. A temperature between 8-10 degrees Celsius (46-50 degrees Fahrenheit) is ideal to highlight both flavor and bubbles.
The Champagne Method, also known as the traditional method or méthode champenoise, is the specific production method used to make Champagne. This method is crucial in creating the unique qualities and characteristics that Champagne is known for. Here is a description of the Champagne Method:
Harvest and Pressing: The grape harvest for Champagne usually takes place in early autumn. The three grape varieties – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier – are carefully picked to ensure optimal quality. After the harvest, the grapes are gently pressed to extract the juice, which forms the basis of Champagne.
First Fermentation: The juice from pressing undergoes the first fermentation, where natural yeast cells convert the sugar into alcohol. This process typically occurs in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels. The result is a base wine with relatively low alcohol content.
Blending: Depending on the desired wine, the producer may choose to blend different wines to achieve the desired style and flavor. This process is called blending or assemblage. By combining wines from different grape varieties, vineyards, and vintages, the producer can achieve a delicate balance of freshness, complexity, and characteristic aromas.
Second Fermentation: After blending, a mixture of sugar and yeast (liqueur de tirage) is added to the base wine. This mixture is then bottled, sealed with caps, and the second fermentation occurs in the bottle. The yeast converts the sugar into alcohol, and carbon dioxide, a byproduct of fermentation, becomes trapped in the bottle, creating the characteristic bubbles in Champagne. The bottles are aged for an extended period, typically at least 15 months, allowing for the development of complexity and aromas. This is achieved through a process called autolysis, during which the wine rests on the dead yeast cells (lees) in the bottle for an extended period. This maturation period, known as aging on the lees, can last for several years.
Riddling and Disgorging: After the second fermentation and autolysis, the yeast must be removed from the bottles. This is accomplished through a process called riddling, in which the bottles are placed in a special position and gradually rotated. This causes the yeast to collect in the neck of the bottle. During disgorging, the neck of the bottle is frozen, and the cap is removed. The pressure in the bottle ejects the frozen "yeast plug," leaving only the clear wine behind.
Dosage and Corking: After disgorging, the sweetness level of the Champagne is adjusted by adding a mixture of wine and sugar known as dosage. While not mandatory, this step can influence the sweetness and style of the Champagne, with variations ranging from extra brut (very dry) to sec (sweet). After dosing, a cork is placed in the bottle, and the final cork is secured with a wire cage to ensure a tight seal and preserve the bubbles.
Maturation and Aging: After corking, the Champagne continues to mature and "come together" – the wine can still develop in the bottle for many years, even though it is no longer in contact with the dead yeast cells.
Tasting and Bottling: When the producer determines that the Champagne has reached the desired level of maturity, the bottles are sent for tasting, where the wine is carefully evaluated. After approval, any unwanted particles are removed, and the Champagne is finally bottled and ready for sale and enjoyment.
The Champagne Method is a time-consuming and complex process that requires meticulous care and expertise. This method contributes to creating the fine bubbles, complex flavor profiles, and luxurious character that Champagne is renowned for. It is this process that makes Champagne a unique and sought-after wine worldwide.
Has all this talk about Champagne and the Champagne Method made you thirsty? Don't hesitate to explore the opportunities to place a bid on one of the current Champagne auctions here on the marketplace.
The Champagne region is located in northeastern France. Unlike many southern wine regions, the microclimate here is cool enough to create the perfect conditions for producing great sparkling wines. Slow ripening is necessary to maintain a high acidity level in the grapes.
Quality Champagne can be stored for many years, as long as it is stored correctly at a constant temperature and away from light and vibrations. The flavors change character over time and if you haven't experienced mature Champagne yet, let us just say that aged Champagne is something truly special.
Winston Churchill was known to be a great admirer of Champagne. His favorite was from the prestigious producer Pol Roger. Churchill was actually known to have a close relationship with the brand. He was often seen with a cigar in hand and a glass of Pol Roger Champagne by his side. It is said that he was so fond of Pol Roger that he even drank it during the war, believing that it helped boost his morale and optimism.
Pol Roger has also expressed their gratitude and honor for Churchill's preference by creating a special dedicated cuvée known as "Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill," launched in 1984. This cuvée remains one of Pol Roger's most famous and prestigious Champagnes.
Although Winston Churchill had a preference for Pol Roger, it's worth noting that he also enjoyed Champagne from other prestigious houses such as Dom Pérignon and Krug.
Champagne should be served cool but not ice-cold. A temperature between 8-10 degrees Celsius (46-50 degrees Fahrenheit) is ideal to highlight both flavor and bubbles.
Champagne is an incredibly versatile wine and can be paired with many different dishes. More than you might think.
Champagne can, of course, be enjoyed as an aperitif, but due to its high acidity and bubbles, which help cleanse the palate and create balance, Champagne is actually very well-suited to a wide range of foods. It can accompany everything from seafood, oysters, sushi, and classic fish dishes to white meats, intense sauces, and cheese. Find the bottle for your next special occasion on one of the Champagne auctions here on the marketplace.
Champagne is a type of sparkling wine that can only be produced in a specific region in France using a special method called the "traditional method" or "Champagne method." The same principles apply to other types of sparkling wines. Their names often indicate a geographical origin or specific affiliation, such as Prosecco from Prosecco in Italy or Crémant from regions like Loire, Burgundy, or Alsace in France.
James Bond is known for his sophisticated and refined taste, and he has a well-known preference for Champagne. In most James Bond films, he is seen enjoying Champagne from Bollinger. Bollinger is a large and respected Champagne producer known for high quality, with a long family history. It is said that James Bond's favorite Champagne from Bollinger is "Bollinger RD" (Récemment Dégorgé), an exclusive and well-matured Vintage Cuvée that spends many years in the cellar before being released.
The Champagne Method, also known as the traditional method or méthode champenoise, is the specific production method used to make Champagne. This method is crucial in creating the unique qualities and characteristics that Champagne is known for. Here is a description of the Champagne Method:
Harvest and Pressing: The grape harvest for Champagne usually takes place in early autumn. The three grape varieties – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier – are carefully picked to ensure optimal quality. After the harvest, the grapes are gently pressed to extract the juice, which forms the basis of Champagne.
First Fermentation: The juice from pressing undergoes the first fermentation, where natural yeast cells convert the sugar into alcohol. This process typically occurs in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels. The result is a base wine with relatively low alcohol content.
Blending: Depending on the desired wine, the producer may choose to blend different wines to achieve the desired style and flavor. This process is called blending or assemblage. By combining wines from different grape varieties, vineyards, and vintages, the producer can achieve a delicate balance of freshness, complexity, and characteristic aromas.
Second Fermentation: After blending, a mixture of sugar and yeast (liqueur de tirage) is added to the base wine. This mixture is then bottled, sealed with caps, and the second fermentation occurs in the bottle. The yeast converts the sugar into alcohol, and carbon dioxide, a byproduct of fermentation, becomes trapped in the bottle, creating the characteristic bubbles in Champagne. The bottles are aged for an extended period, typically at least 15 months, allowing for the development of complexity and aromas. This is achieved through a process called autolysis, during which the wine rests on the dead yeast cells (lees) in the bottle for an extended period. This maturation period, known as aging on the lees, can last for several years.
Riddling and Disgorging: After the second fermentation and autolysis, the yeast must be removed from the bottles. This is accomplished through a process called riddling, in which the bottles are placed in a special position and gradually rotated. This causes the yeast to collect in the neck of the bottle. During disgorging, the neck of the bottle is frozen, and the cap is removed. The pressure in the bottle ejects the frozen "yeast plug," leaving only the clear wine behind.
Dosage and Corking: After disgorging, the sweetness level of the Champagne is adjusted by adding a mixture of wine and sugar known as dosage. While not mandatory, this step can influence the sweetness and style of the Champagne, with variations ranging from extra brut (very dry) to sec (sweet). After dosing, a cork is placed in the bottle, and the final cork is secured with a wire cage to ensure a tight seal and preserve the bubbles.
Maturation and Aging: After corking, the Champagne continues to mature and "come together" – the wine can still develop in the bottle for many years, even though it is no longer in contact with the dead yeast cells.
Tasting and Bottling: When the producer determines that the Champagne has reached the desired level of maturity, the bottles are sent for tasting, where the wine is carefully evaluated. After approval, any unwanted particles are removed, and the Champagne is finally bottled and ready for sale and enjoyment.
The Champagne Method is a time-consuming and complex process that requires meticulous care and expertise. This method contributes to creating the fine bubbles, complex flavor profiles, and luxurious character that Champagne is renowned for. It is this process that makes Champagne a unique and sought-after wine worldwide.
Has all this talk about Champagne and the Champagne Method made you thirsty? Don't hesitate to explore the opportunities to place a bid on one of the current Champagne auctions here on the marketplace.