A wine emblematic of its region, discover the nuances of Blanc de Blancs Champagne, its unique identity and the history behind this evocative name.
Blending, the spirit of Champagne…
In Champagne, blending is an age-old tradition…To etch in stone the excellence of a harvest, one which guarantees that the taste and style of a brand will endure over time, the Champagne producers blend – akin to Master Perfumers or painters – clear wine from different grape varieties, from various years and crus. This meticulous exercise births non-vintage masterpieces of exceptional quality each year.
…shattered by single-varietal vinifications
In the early 20th century, a few pioneers sought to understand the essence of their lands through a different lens: that of the grape varietal. Hence, “Blancs de Blancs” were born. This term simply means that the Champagne wine has been crafted exclusively from white grapes, predominantly Chardonnay, stemming from one or several terroirs. In the 1950s it was not an instant success, but by the 1980s, Blanc de Blancs had captured the hearts of enthusiasts.
Chardonnay, the flagship grape of Blanc de Blancs Champagne…
Though Chardonnay is the grape variety of choice in the Côte des Blancs, a wine-growing region renowned for the excellence of its chalky terroirs, it is also found in the Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Bar, Montagne de Reims, Coteaux Vitryats, Côte de Sézanne, Vallée de l’Ardre, and the Massif de Saint Thierry. This exquisitely delicate grape variety occupies 28% of the Champagne vineyard alone.
…which provides a rich and refined aromatic bouquet
Depending on its origin, climatic conditions, and ageing duration, the golden berries unveil a complex aromatic palette. In its youth, Chardonnay reveals notes of citrus, white flowers, pineapple, chalk, apple, pear, mint, ginger, and aniseed. When mature, hints of brioche, pastry, milk caramel, stewed fruits, and almonds. At its peak, aromas of toasted bread, gingerbread, and quince paste.
Wines designed for ageing…
Blanc de Blancs boasts an impressive ageing potential and can be stored in cellars for several years, thanks to the natural acidity of Chardonnay. Its hue will gradually shift from a crystalline pale yellow gold to deeper golden shades.
…whose unparalleled excellence elevates exquisite and sophisticated dishes
From aperitif to main course, Blanc de Blancs is an elegant and ethereal Champagne that pairs beautifully with various high quality products.
The “Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs” is a shining example. A vintage wine and produced in limited quantities, this cuvée, crafted solely from Chardonnay grapes sourced from the five Grand Cru-classified villages of the Côte des Blancs, pairs perfectly with a lovely goose foie gras. The delicate, finely crafted effervescence of this great gastronomic wine also complements the briny flavours of seafood: sole meunière, turbot, or salmon rillettes. As for cheese, it enhances parmesan shavings, Chaource tart, Rosace de Reims, or a mature goat’s cheese.
The magic of the moment
Be it a cocktail reception, countryside picnic, seaside sojourn, summer afternoon, or an impromptu dinner, Blanc de Blancs, with its innate elegance and lightness, suits every occasion.
There are also 100% Pinot Blanc and 100% Arbane – lesser-known white grapes with white juice – authorised by the appellation. These niche, exceptionally rare wines, are also sought-after Blanc de Blancs cherished by bubble aficionados worldwide.
