Grapes

In the "Champagne" controlled appellation, only three grape varieties are permitted.

Pinot Noir (a red grape with white juice) provides the aromas of red berries, the power and the body, Pinot Meunier (a red grape with white juice) gives the "roundness" to the blends and Chardonnay (white grape with juice white) means the wine will keep longer, thanks to its aroma and its freshness. It is this latter variety on its own that produces the champagne called "blanc de blanc".

Chardonnay
Chardonnay is planted on 27% of the vineyards. It is the favourite varietal on the Côte des Blancs. Chardonnay wines are characterised by delicate aromas and a high level of freshness which guarantees that they will age well. It is these characteristics which are responsible for the particular elegance of blancs de blancs Champagnes and which contribute to the finesse of blended Champagnes.

Pinot noir
Pinot noir represents 38% of the vineyard surface area and is to be found in particular on the Montagne de Reims and in the Côte des Bar . The pinot noir wines are distinguished by aromas of red berries, and by pronounced power and structure.

Pinot meunier
Meunier or Pinot Meunier occupies the remaining 35%. It is a hardy vine that can produce better quality results than other varieties in difficult years because it is less demanding in terms of the amount of heat required for its maturation. Meunier wines are fairly similar to those made with Pinot Noir. They have an intense and often more fruity bouquet and make blends a little rounder.