We often hear these expressions in Champagne: "blanc de blancs", "blanc de noirs", etc... but it is easy to get lost, which is why we propose to answer the question "What is a Blanc de Blancs Champagne"?
Let's go back to basics...
3 major grape varieties are used in the composition of Champagne:
- Chardonnay, a grape with white skin and white juice;
- Pinot noir, a black-skinned grape with white juice;
- And the Meunier, also a grape with black skin and white juice.
The Blanc de Blancs = 100% Chardonnay
A Blanc de Blancs Champagne is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes: it is the most sought-after grape variety in Champagne because it brings finesse and elegance, freshness and liveliness to the wine.
Chardonnay occupies approximately 30% of the Champagne vineyards. It is mainly found in the Côte des Blancs region, renowned for the quality of its limestone terroir.
When tasted, the Chardonnay brings delicate aromas of citrus, floral and mineral notes, then, after a few years of evolution, it develops notes of candied fruit, toast, brioche and pastries.
The Whites of Whites at Nicolas Feuillatte
Our Cellar Master, Guillaume Roffiaen, has created 3 different Blanc de Blancs champagnes:
- Blanc de Blancs Millésimé, always vintage, with a minimum of 5 years of cellar aging.
- Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs, also vintage, a blend of grapes from the Grands Crus of the prestigious Côte des Blancs, aged in the cellar for at least 6 years.
- There Cuvée Speciale Blanc de Blancs, non-vintage, wonderful ambassador of delicacy.
What to pair with Blanc de Blancs champagne?
The freshness and liveliness of Blanc de Blancs will pair perfectly with seafood and salty dishes. You can therefore accompany it with a beautiful seafood platter, oysters, sea bream sashimi or even delicious sushi, but also with fish or white meats in sauce.
Blanc de Blancs Champagne with dessert? It's also possible; we recommend a lemon tart, orange carpaccio, or peach skewers.
Bon appétit and enjoy your meal!
