Different Types of Champagne

Types of Champagne in flutes, subtle color variation

Champagne is more than just a celebratory sparkling wine—it’s a highly regulated category with a diverse range of styles. Understanding the different types of Champagne helps you select a bottle that matches your taste preference or occasion.

Main Styles of Champagne

Brut: The most popular style, with up to 12 ml residual sugar per liter. Brut Champagne is crisp and dry, making it versatile for most palates and dishes.
Extra Brut: Contains very little sugar (0–6 ml per liter). Extremely dry and best suited to those who enjoy a bone-dry profile.
Brut Nature (Zero Dosage): No sugar added after the second fermentation—resulting in a very austere, chalky wine. Ideal for purists seeking the purest Champagne expression.
Extra Dry: Despite the name, actually slightly sweeter than Brut, with 12–17 ml residual sugar per liter. Offers a pleasing balance for those who want a hint of sweetness.
Sec: Noticeably sweet, with 17–32 ml sugar per liter. Works well with desserts or as an option for newcomers to Champagne.
Demi-Sec: A genuinely sweet Champagne (32–50 ml sugar per liter). Pairs well with fruit-based desserts or celebrations requiring a sweeter touch.
Doux: The sweetest style, containing more than 50 ml sugar per liter. Rare today but prized by those who appreciate bold sweetness.

Special Categories: Rosé and Blanc de Blancs

Rosé Champagne: Made by blending red Pinot Noir base wine with white base or by allowing brief skin contact. Expect notes of red berries, a delicate pink hue, and vibrant acidity.
Blanc de Blancs: Produced exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. Often lighter, with floral and citrus notes, and a fine mousse.
Blanc de Noirs: Made solely from black grapes (Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier), typically richer, with aromas of red fruit and brioche.

Rosé Champagne in tulip glass with pale pink color

Sweetness Levels Explained

Brut Nature and Extra Brut: 0–6 ml/l. For those who seek absolute dryness.
Brut: Up to 12 ml/l. The gold standard for most Champagne drinkers.
Extra Dry: 12–17 ml/l. Slight sweetness without dominating the palate.
Sec, Demi-Sec, Doux: 17–50+ ml/l. Ranging from noticeable sweetness (Sec) to bold dessert-like flavors (Doux).

Choosing the right type of Champagne lets you tailor the experience to your tastes—whether that’s a sharply dry Brut Nature, a fruit-forward Rosé, or a sweet and festive Demi-Sec.