Champagne: Blanc de Blancs vs Blanc de Noirs

There are 7 types of grapes in Champagne region: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Arbane, Petit Meslier, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris, though the first three types account for more than 99% of vines.

Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs refer to the grape variety made for the bottle of champagne. 

Definitions

Blanc de Blancs

“White from whites” in French. These wines are made from white grapes only. In the world of Champagne, this typically refers to 100% Chardonnay. If the bottle is made from other white grapes e.g. Pinot Blanc, it is very likely the grape variety will be stated on the label.

Blanc de Noirs

“White from blacks” in French. These wines are made from red grapes, yet the wine will still be clear because only juices are used (not the skins). In Champagne, this usually implies 100% Pinot Noir or 100% Pinot Meunier, or the blend of both.

Styles and Tasting Notes

Blanc de Blancs

• Bright, zesty acidity
• Fresh citrus (lemon, lime)
• Green apple and pear notes
• A touch of minerality and toastiness from lees aging
• Made from white grapes (typically Chardonnay), Blanc de Blancs is light, elegant, and crisp. Expect fresh citrus, green apple, and a touch of minerality. These wines are known for their high acidity and refreshing finish, making them ideal for lighter dishes like seafood, sushi, or salads.

Blanc de Noirs

• Red fruits like strawberry, raspberry, and cherry
• A deeper, bolder body with more weight
• Hints of spice and earthiness from the red grapes
• Toast and biscuit flavors from the traditional method of production
• Made from black (red) grapes (usually Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier), Blanc de Noirs wines are fuller-bodied, with a fruitier, bolder profile. Think of red fruits like strawberry and raspberry, with a creamy texture and richness that pairs well with hearty dishes like roast chicken, creamy pasta, or charcuterie.

Famous Regions and Villages

There are five regions in Champagne, Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Blancs, Côte de Sézanne, and Côte des Bar (aka Aube). Each of them comprises of vineyards of most of the grapes but some are renowned for particular varieties.

Chardonnay

Côte des Blancs, a sub-region of the Champagne region in France known for its chalky soil, which imparts elegance and mineral complexity for Chardonnay. Famous villages include Avize, Cramant, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger, Chouilly, and Oiry

Côte des Sézanne, a less-known sub-region of the Champagne appellation in northeastern France, a continuation of the famous Côte des Blancs, is characterized by rolling hills covered in vineyards. Famous villages include Sézanne, Broyes, and Allemant

Montagne de Reims, while famous for Pinot Noir, it also has notable Chardonnay plantings, particularly on its northern slopes. One village is famous for it: Trépail

Pinot Noir

Montagne de Reims, located south of Reims, this area is famous for its Pinot Noir, which accounts for over half the plantings. Globally renowned villages are Verzenay, Verzy, Bouzy, and Ambonnay

Côte des Bar (Aube), southern part of Champagne, with 86% of vines dedicated to the grape. The soil here is similar to that of Chablis, giving the wines a distinct minerality. Some of the reputable villages are Les Riceys

Pinot Meunier

Vallée de la Marne, location along the Marne River with a temperate climate that favours the Pinot Meunier grape. Two Grand Cru villages are Aÿ and Tours-sur-Marne

Which One Should You Choose?

If you're new to Champagne, it's helpful to try both styles to see which one aligns with your palate. Here’s a quick guide:

• Go for a Blanc de Blancs if you prefer a lighter, fresher style with crisp acidity and subtle fruit and floral notes. It's perfect for sipping on its own or with seafood and light appetizers.
• Opt for a Blanc de Noirs if you prefer a richer, more complex sparkling wine with deeper fruit flavors and a fuller body. These wines are great with richer foods like roast meats, creamy cheeses, or even dark chocolate.

Summary

	Blanc de Blancs	Blanc de Noirs
Definition	100% from white grapes	100% from red grapes
Grapes	Chardonnay	Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier
Style	Crispy, Zesty, Mineral	Rich, Bold, Finesse
Predominant Region	Côte des Blancs	Pinot Noir: Montagne de Reims. Pinot Meunier: Vallée de la Marne
Famous Villages	Avize, Cramant, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger, Chouilly	Pinot Noir: Verzenay, Verzy, Bouzy, and Ambonnay. Pinot Meunier: Aÿ and Tours-sur-Marne