For centuries the production of champagne has been restricted to a growing area of just 85,000 acres surrounding Epernay and Reims in the North East of France.

Over the years the Champenois have not only perfected the method of production but also the art of image building and brand management; today champagne is consumed all over the world because it is synonymous with celebration and success.

There are more than 8,000 producers of champagne with the larger Champagne Houses being forced to compete fiercely with the smaller family producers.

Park Lane Champagne has carefully selected reputable independent producers who both supply and compete with the better known 'Grand Marque' champagnes.

Harvest is the highlight of the year and in Champagne every grape is still handpicked from the vines rather than using machines. The Harvest date varies but is usually in mid-September and this year 14 September was the start date, with thousands of people coming from all over France and abroad to pick the grapes.

As soon as the grapes have been harvested they go to press. Park Lane Champagne's producer will ensure that every grape is whole and in perfect condition before being tipped in their old-fashioned vertical wooden press, the Coquart. Despite the introduction of modern machinery the Coquart, dating from the days of Dom Pérignon, is still considered to be the best. Reports back from the vineyard were of an abundant harvest with a plenitude of quality and quantity.