Champage shortage possible

Did  you know...

That the champagne region can produce a maximum of 350 million bottles every year and that global sales have risen from 287 million in 2002 to 321 million in 2006.

Russia and Asia demand is increasing year on year and is up 125% in India.

Champagne growers, facing little in the way of pensions in their old age, are storing up millions of bottles in their cellars to sell when they retire.

So what will this mean?

Champagne prices will probably go up in the medium to long term and vintage champagne could be a very good investment.

Champagne alternatives, such as the sparkling wines from Australia, New Zealand and even the UK, might see a boost in sales, providing they can continue to maintain the quality and the big price advantage (at least for new world wines).