The Champagne wine region is very famous for its sparkling white wine.
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. It 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 .
- Pinot Meunier (a red grape with white juice) gives the "roundness" to the blends.
- Chardonnay (white grape with juice white) 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.