For centuries Champagne has been synonymous with celebrations in all corners of the world. But the global demand for this popular drink has created a dilemma as Champagne’s carbon footprint is extremely high.

It is estimated that the transportation of billions of litres of Champagne creates a carbon footprint of 200 000 tons, which is the equivalent to the yearly emission of roughly 100 000 cars.

The heavy bottle is the main culprit in Champagne’s high carbon footprint as the production and shipping process are stretched to manage this bulky bottle.

The hefty bottles were designed in the 17^th century by Dom Pierre Pérignon and were created to prevent secondary fermentations and possible ‘explosions’. The bottle is undergoing a redesign as the French aim to reduce the carbon footprint by decreasing the weight by seven percent.

Some sceptics indicated that the lighter (mass) bottles may have an effect on the bubble size which in turn can influence the taste of the Champagne. But the CIVC, the Champagne trade body, indicated that the new bottles will have no meaningful effect on the quality and taste of Champagne.

Kumkani brand news

Kumkani Infiniti Brut is one of South Africa’s best *MCC (Method Cap Classic) wines and we support this environmentally friendly venture.

* South African wines which uses the classic method of making champagne by creating a second fermentation in the bottle is called Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) sparkling wines.