For sheer magic, champagne has no equal. It is the very emblem of sophistication, of celebration, of uninhibited pleasure. One of the most closely protected wine appellations in the world, it enhances French art de vivre and contributes to its global prominence and prestige. Ever since champagne was first dreamed up at the turn of the eighteenth century, the region’s visionary producers have forged ahead to open new markets and develop local terroirs.

Just how did the cork-popping “devil’s wine” become the blessed nectar of the gods? Whether it’s crafted by independent vignerons who cultivate grapes on their own lands or produced by legendary houses, champagne remains an international success that shines in a category by itself, beyond every other sparkling wine on Earth.