Collection: White of the Blacks

Blanc de Noirs is a unique Champagne style that, unlike the refined and minerally Blanc de Blancs, is known for its power, structure, and intense fruitiness. This is because Blanc de Noirs is made exclusively from red grapes, usually Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier. These champagnes can range from fresh and fruity to full-bodied and complex, depending on the grape variety, origin, and aging. In this comprehensive overview, you'll discover everything about Blanc de Noirs champagne, from its flavor profile and aging potential to the influence of terroir and proper serving techniques.

The term "Blanc de Noirs" literally means "white from black" and refers to the fact that this champagne is made from dark grapes, yet still has a white color. This is because the juice from the grapes doesn't come into contact with the skins during vinification. The two main grapes for Blanc de Noirs champagne are: Pinot Noir – Provides structure, power, deep fruit aromas, and a long finish. Often recognizable by notes of red fruit like raspberry, cherry, and strawberry. After aging, aromas of leather, tobacco, and truffle can emerge. Pinot Meunier – Provides roundness, fruitiness, and softness. Meunier has lower acidity than Pinot Noir and develops ripe aromas of ripe fruit, toast, and caramel more quickly. Blanc de Noirs is often associated with Champagnes that are richer, fuller-bodied, and more gastronomic than Blanc de Blancs. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a more powerful Champagne.

Blanc de Noirs champagnes are powerful, expressive, and full-bodied. The precise aromas and texture depend on the grape variety and the aging process. Young Blanc de Noirs (0-3 years maturation) Crisp acidity and intense fruity notes of raspberry, cherry, strawberry, and pear. The mousse is lively and the finish fresh. Pinot Meunier-dominant Blanc de Noirs is often more accessible and rounder, while Pinot Noir-dominant Blanc de Noirs is tighter and more powerful. Geriefte Blanc de Noirs (3-7 years maturation) More complexity and depth. Aromas of dried fruit, brioche, and toasted nuts begin to develop. The mousse softens, and the finish lengthens. Pinot Noir develops more spicy and earthy notes, while Meunier develops a softer, creamier texture. Old Blanc de Noirs (7+ years of maturation) Full-bodied, rich, and powerful champagnes with notes of truffle, leather, toast, caramel, and roasted hazelnuts. The acidity remains vibrant yet beautifully integrated, and the mousse is often softer and creamier. Compared to Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs is often warmer and rounder in style and can therefore also be used well as a dining champagne.

Blanc de Noirs is mainly produced in areas where Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are dominant: Montagne de Reims – Pinot Noir-dominant Blanc de Noirs with plenty of structure, power and depth. Vallée de la Marne – Meunier-dominant Blanc de Noirs with ripe fruit, softness and roundness. Côte des Bar – Warmer climate, fruitier Blanc de Noirs with floral and spicy notes. A good example is William Santot - Blanc de Noirs, a pure Pinot Noir champagne from Avenay v'al dor, known for its deep, rich style.

Blanc de Noirs offers a unique tasting experience and is ideal for those seeking a champagne with more power, depth, and gastronomic potential. - Powerful and full style, perfect with meals. - Versatile combinations with meat, fish and truffle dishes. - Excellent aging potential, especially Pinot Noir-dominant Blanc de Noirs. - Deep and complex aromas, ranging from red fruit to leather and truffle. Blanc de Noirs is the perfect choice for those looking for a champagne with more body, character, and aging potential than the classic Blanc de Blancs. Discover our range of Blanc de Noirs champagnes and experience the power of pure Pinot Grigio.