Lisa's Wine Wednesdays
The three main grapes used in Champagne production are Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, both “black” grapes, and Chardonnay, a light-skinned grape.
In Champagne, the term Blanc de Blancs designates Champagnes made only from Chardonnay grapes, whereas Blanc de Noir is created using only Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier grapes. The vineyards located between Cramant and Mesnil-sur-Oger in Cote de Blancs yield the best examples of Blanc de Blanc. Blanc de Noirs Champagnes tend to come from the Champagne region's more southerly vineyards. Here the terroir is better suited to the black-skinned varieties than further north. Pinot Noir in particular suits soils with more clay components alongside the chalk.
Perhaps the most notable Blanc de Noirs wines are Krug's Clos d'Ambonnay and Bollinger's Vieilles Vignes Francaises. These are two of the most expensive Champagnes ever produced. The former (for approximately USD $2900/bottle), is made from Pinot Noir vines grown in a walled 1-acre vineyard in the village of Ambonnay (hence the name).
Blanc de Noirs are produced by quickly removing the skins from the juice after the grapes have been pressed. This technique prevents the pigment in the grape’s dark skin from transferring too much color to the wine. These wines may vary in hue from pale pink to apricot to salmon; seldom are they clear or “white.”
I wasn't able to find a French Blanc de Noir for this tasting, but I did find a reputable one from California, made in the traditional Champagne style. Here is what I found:
Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs Napa Valley 2015 (USD $42)
100% Pinot Noir, this sparkling wine has scents of a freshly baked brioche, is medium-bodied, dry, and with notes of apple, pear, and almond. I loved this bubbly!! (We can't call it a Champagne because it wasn't made in the Champagne region of France, but it was great!).
Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs Champagne Brut Non Vintage (USD $50)
This is 100% non-vintage Chardonnay, made of blended Chardonnay grapes from various plots in the Mesnil region of Champagne. All of the land in this area is considered exceptional and the Champagnes are labeled Grand Cru as a result. It is light-bodied, smells so aromatic like a floral garden, and with notes of apple and pear. This Champagne is absolutely delicious.
I had never thought to compare the different grape varietals when tasting Champagne. It was truly interesting, the main difference being the weight and body. Dark-skinned grapes yield a fuller-bodied product. They were both fantastic choices.
Hope you enjoyed the short Champagne tutorial.....
Saluti!
Xoxo -Lisa.