In reviewing Champagnes and Sparkling Wines you will see that some are Brut or Dry and Extra Dry. These terms reflect the sweetness of the wine and specifically the amount of sugar that is added during the second fermentation. Now logic would say that if Brut is dry then Extra Dry would be less sweet that the Brut/Dry! Not the case …… Extra Dry means that it is actually a little sweeter than the Brut/Dry! The following is a chart showing the levels of sweetness and the approximate amount of residual sugar per liter:

– Extra Brut or Brut Naturale: 0-6 grams of sugar per liter. (The driest … unsweetened) – Brut: less than 15 grams of sugar per liter. (Dry with no Sweetness)
– Extra Dry: 12-20 grams of sugar per liter. (Hint of sweetness or slightly sweet) – Sec: 17-35 grams of sugar per liter. (medium sweet)
– Demi-Sec: 33-55 grams of sugar per liter. (Sweet)
– Doux: More than 55 grams of sugar per liter. (Sweetest, very rare, and considered a dessert wine)

Now you know!!! Read the labels and you will know the level of sweetness in your Champagne or Sparkling Wine!

Cheers!