Editor’s note: Part one of a four-part series The first thing most people think of when they think of Champagne is a bubbly wine reserved for birthdays, weddings and New Year’s Eve. Until recently, I was no exception.

Having just spent five days in the heart of the Champagne region of France, I am now firmly convinced that Champagne is much more than a sparkling wine. It is Champagne. And in order to really understand and appreciate Champagne, it is important to know where it comes from and how it is made.