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Blanc de Blancs vs. Blanc de Noirs Champagne: What to Know Before You Buy

Jan 12, 2026

Alessandra Esteves

Blanc de Blancs vs. Blanc de Noirs Champagne: What to Know Before You Buy

Champagne labels can be confusing, but two terms are worth understanding because they say a lot about what’s in the glass: Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs. These styles are not trends. They are classic expressions of Champagne, and knowing the difference helps you choose the right bottle for the right moment.

What Is Blanc de Blancs Champagne?

Blanc de Blancs Champagne is made exclusively from white grapes, almost always 100% Chardonnay. These wines are known for freshness, precision, and structure driven by acidity.

Blanc de Blancs often shows citrus, green apple, white flowers, and chalky minerality. The style is linear and focused, making it a favorite for aperitif drinking and seafood pairings.

Producers known for outstanding Blanc de Blancs include Ruinart, Philippe Gonet, Pierre Peters, Barons de Rothschild, and Jacquart.

When to choose Blanc de Blancs:

  • Aperitif Champagne

  • Raw seafood, oysters, crudo

  • Light appetizers and delicate dishes

What Is Blanc de Noirs Champagne?

Blanc de Noirs Champagne is made from black grapes, typically Pinot Noir, Meunier, or a combination of both. Despite the darker skins, the wine is still white because the juice is pressed gently.

Blanc de Noirs wines are generally richer and more expressive, with notes of orchard fruit, baked apple, spice, and sometimes subtle red fruit character. The texture is broader, making these wines excellent at the table.

Producers known for strong Blanc de Noirs expressions include Alexandre Bonnet and Mousse et Fils.

When to choose Blanc de Noirs:

  • Food-driven Champagne moments

  • Roast chicken, mushrooms, charcuterie

  • Dishes with more weight or umami

Which Style Is Right for You?

Neither style is better. The choice depends on how and when you plan to drink the wine.

  • Choose Blanc de Blancs if you want freshness, tension, and precision.

  • Choose Blanc de Noirs if you want depth, texture, and versatility with food.

Many Champagne lovers keep both styles on hand for different occasions, especially as Champagne continues to move beyond celebrations and into everyday drinking.

Final Thought

Understanding Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs gives you confidence when buying Champagne. These styles reflect grape choice, structure, and purpose at the table. At 305 Wines, we carry a focused selection of both, making it easy to find the right Champagne for your taste and occasion.