France allows higher alcohol in champagne after heatwave
By The BriefBrief
France’s record-breaking summer heat has raised sugar levels in champagne grapes, prompting authorities to permit alcohol content of up to 15% for sparkling wine in the Champagne region. The usual cap is 13%, marking the first time the higher limit has been allowed.
WHO:Authorities in France’s Champagne region
WHAT:Authorities allowed sparkling wine in Champagne to reach up to 15% alcohol instead of the usual 13% cap.
WHEN:Reported Sep 9, 2026 at 9:49 AM ET
WHERE:Champagne, France
WHY:Unusually high sugar levels in grapes caused by France’s record-breaking summer heat.
Reporting from 1 identified publisher for this event.
