What Is Blanc de Noirs Champagne? Discover the Bold Elegance of This Unique Pinot Noir Pinot Meunier Blend
- cecile-w
- Jul 22
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 23
When most people think of champagne, they imagine something pale, crisp, and delicately floral. But there's a rich, expressive side to champagne that deserves the spotlight: Blanc de Noirs. Translating to "white from blacks," Blanc de Noirs Champagnes are made exclusively from dark-skinned grapes, offering a deeper, more full-bodied expression of this iconic sparkling wine.
Whether you're new to the world of champagne or looking to explore something beyond the classics, Blanc de Noirs is a category worth discovering.
Blanc de Noirs: the famous Pinot Noir Pinot Meunier blend
In Champagne, there are three main grape varieties: Chardonnay (a white grape), Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier (both dark grapes). While traditional blends often mix all three, Blanc de Noirs Champagnes are made solely from Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, or a combination of both. Blanc de Noirs Champagnes are thus the opposite of Blanc de Blancs, made exclusively from Chardonnay.
Despite being made from dark-skinned grapes, the grape juice is slowly pressed in order to avoid any skin contact, resulting in a white or pale golden champagne with greater depth and complexity. This style is known for its richer body, intense fruit character, and savory undertones, making it an ideal choice for food pairing or cozy evenings.
What Does Blanc de Noirs Taste Like?
Blanc de Noirs champagnes are typically:
Fruit-forward, with notes of red berries, stone fruits, or baked apples
Textured and bold, often with a creamy mousse and rounded mouthfeel
Structured, sometimes offering subtle spice, earth, or toastiness
Long-lasting, with a lingering finish that sets them apart from lighter styles
This makes them perfect for those who enjoy wines with personality and complexity.
Why Choose Grower Blanc de Noirs?
At The Champagne Fox, we specialize in Grower Champagnes, wines crafted by the very farmers who grow the grapes. These small-scale producers bring a unique perspective to Blanc de Noirs, often expressing the terroir of their vineyards with precision and passion. Unlike mass-market labels, grower Blanc de Noirs champagnes are often single-vintage, single-vineyard, and full of character.
When to Enjoy Blanc de Noirs
Blanc de Noirs is surprisingly versatile. While it's bold enough to stand up to food, it’s also a delicious choice on its own.
Here are a few perfect pairings:
Roast chicken, duck, or turkey
Mushroom risotto or truffle-based dishes
Charcuterie boards and pâtés
Even rich desserts like tarte Tatin
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a quiet evening, Blanc de Noirs offers a luxurious twist on the traditional champagne experience.
Shop Our Blanc de Noirs Collection
If this has piqued your curiosity, it’s time to taste the magic for yourself. We’ve handpicked a collection of exceptional Blanc de Noirs Champagnes from independent growers across the Champagne region. Each bottle tells a story of place, craftsmanship, and bold expression.
Curious to taste the difference between Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier? Discover our 100% Pinot Meunier champagne or our 100% Pinot Noir champagne. From elegant Meunier-dominant cuvées to powerful Pinot Noir blends, there's something in our selection to suit every palate.
