France Allows Champagne Alcohol Content Up to 15% This Year

Champagne producers in France will be allowed to raise the alcohol content of their wine to 15% this year, a move that breaks with the traditional limit of 12.5%. The decision, announced by the Champagne Committee, aims to help growers cope with the effects of climate change, which has led to riper grapes and higher natural sugar levels. The new ceiling applies only to the 2024 harvest and will be reviewed annually.