Champagne is a sparkling wine produced exclusively in the Champagne region. Champagne is protected by an Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC), which means that growers wishing to produce champagne must meet strict specifications, including the obligation to select their grapes from the following varietals: Chardonnay Blanc, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

Blanc de blancs

During vinification, the winemaker can choose to use only white-fleshed grapes, i.e. Chardonnay grapes. When a champagne is vinified using only white grapes, it’s called blanc de blancs.

Mainly grown in the limestone soils of Champagne’s Côte des Blancs region, Chardonnay produces blanc de blancs with a pale yellow crystalline color when young. With age, the coat tends towards gold. The blanc de blancs has floral aromas and very good acidity and finesse on the palate when young. With age, it becomes rounder and smoother.

The term “blanc de blancs” can be used for other sparkling wines that are not AOC Champagne, but have the same grape variety characteristics.

What pairings for blanc de blancs?

Blanc de blancs is generally enjoyed as an aperitif. However, it can also be served with lobster or oysters. On the other hand, a pressed cheese goes well with blanc de blancs.

And what about the blanc de noirs?

Some champagnes are made exclusively from black grapes with white flesh (Pinot Noir or Meunier): these are called blanc de noirs. In terms of color, it will be more golden than a blanc de blancs. To the taste, its aromas lean more towards yellow fruit and more aromatic flowers.

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