ScienceRecord French heatwaves allow champagne to reach 15% ABV

Record heat and drought in France’s Champagne region produced unusually sugary grapes, allowing producers to raise champagne’s alcohol limit temporarily to 15%, from 13%, this year. The industry association said the region also recorded its earliest harvest, a pattern that may become normal within 10 to 15 years as the climate changes.

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BBBC News★★☆☆☆2026-09-12 13:00Original