Through an introduction to the Champagne region, the history of the wine and the development of the champagne method, this book traces champagne's beginnings as a still wine and, via the appointment of a young monk, Dom Pierre Perignon, as Cellarer at the Abbey of Hautvillers, its evolution into the sparkling wine known today. An examination of wine making and the vine varieties is accompanied by an overall look at the Champagne makers, from small growers to the great houses such as Krug, Moet et Chandon, Pol Roger and Veuve Clicquot. There are also notes on the vintages for each year since 1945.