Champange Region Expanding

This is interesting news:

http://www.cbc.ca/consumer/story/2008/03/13/champagne.html

Bottom line: they are adding 40 new villages to the Champagne region as a response to increased demand for champagne. Lots of happy people around the region, I imagine. What will be impact on quality, I wonder? Or pricing?

Interesting. There is always the issue of underappreciated land finally getting its due.

But, something tells me that is not the main motive here.

Tom Stevenson - who knows a thing or two about Champagne - - wrote a long piece with his take on the issue back in November last year after the proposals were submitted but before they were agreed. Here it is:
http://www.wine-pages.com/guests/tom/champagne-expansion.htm

thanks wink for that link - the usual keen analysis from tom. i loved that bit about mapping the champagne region in 50x50 blocks.

So the terroir of the Champagne region is so distinctive and unique that they can expand it whenever they feel it's economically expedient, eh?

-Paul W.

paul, read tom's analysis at the link wink provided. (say that 3 times!)

[Jenise]

At the very least, it's going to create a lot of instant millionaires and a lot of hard feelings from those in areas considered but not chosen for the final cut.

I think Champagne prices will drop as a direct result.

If it means a drop in the prices of GENUINE Champagne, as well as this faux extended-appellation stuff, then I'm all for it.

-Paul W.

I think Champagne prices will drop as a direct result.

Joe, I hope you're right, but suspect otherwise.