Meet the bold pioneers who transformed Champagne—from the cellar to the world stage.
In this fourth episode of “A History of Champagne”, filmed on location in France, step inside the historic cellars of Veuve Clicquot and Charles Heidsieck to uncover the stories of two trailblazers who shaped the sparkling wine we know today.
Discover how Widow Clicquot revolutionized Champagne production in the early 1800s by inventing the riddling process, making clear, brilliant bubbly possible for the first time. Then follow the daring journey of Champagne Charlie, the first Champagne maker to personally bring the wine to America—only to be imprisoned during the U.S. Civil War.
Featuring interviews with Fabienne Huttaux and Genviève Dejoie of Veuve Clicquot, and Christian Holthausen of Charles Heidsieck, who share rare archival insights and brand history.
My childhood memories of Champagne at family holiday parties sparked a lifelong curiosity… This series is my tribute to its enduring legacy.
Filmed in 2008, this series offers timeless insights and behind-the-scenes access to Champagne’s most iconic maisons. Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or curious traveler—you’ll never look at a glass of bubbly the same way again. No sponsorships were involved in making this series. #historyofchampagne
00:00 Introduction
01:20 Villages and Vineyards
02:40 Founding of the House
04:53 Widow Clicquot Takes Over
06:09 First Remuage
08:09 First Shipments to America
08:39 Cellars of Veuve Clicquot
10:00 Who Can Call Themselves Champagne
11:09 Yellow Label
12:59 La Grande Dame
14:27 Pairing with La Grande Dame
14:54 Grape Varieties in Champagne
15:13 Map of Champagne Region
17:04 Intro Charles Heidsieck Champagne
19:41 Founding of House
21:29 First Champagne Maker to Visit America
22:00 Nicknamed Champagne Charlie
22:19 Deed to Denver
23:08 Sir Robert Falcon Scott
23:50 The Comet
25:02 Champagne Charlie Song
26:17 Prolonged Aging
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🥂 A Friendly Champagne Pronunciation Disclaimer
We know a few names aren’t pronounced in a perfect French accent—but that won’t stop us from enjoying the bubbles, and we hope it won’t stop you either. You must be of legal drinking age in your region.
💠 Responsible Enjoyment
Exemplar Arts LLC – D.B.A. Artful Aims- presents this series for entertainment purposes only and offers information and genuine opinions. Champagne contains alcohol and is for adult consumption only. Please drink responsibly and ensure you are of legal drinking age in your region. We do not condone underage drinking or illegal activities. By watching, you acknowledge that the creators are not liable for any actions taken based on this content.
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