What is Blanc de Noirs?

Red Grapes

Blanc de Noirs is a French term that translates to "white from black".  It refers to a white wine produced from dark grapes.

What is the difference between a Blanc de Noirs and a Blanc de Blancs?

Blanc de Noirs is a sparkling wine made from red grapes. By contrast, Blanc de Blancs (white from whites) is made only from white grapes.

White Wine from Red Grapes?

The juice of red grapes is clear and only takes on its red color after coming into contact with the skins. To produce a Blanc de Noirs, the winemaker separates the juice from the skins as soon as possible to prevent it from picking up color, resulting in a wine that looks like a white wine. It may be golden in color or have just hint of pale pink.

How Does Blanc de Noirs Taste?

Because a Blanc de Noirs is made from red grapes, it also has a different flavor profile than a Blanc de Blancs, with more red fruit flavors. Sparkling Blanc de Noirs wines are typically light-bodied and low in tannins, with flavors of strawberries, cherries, and raspberries. They are also known for their crisp acidity.

However, the taste varies widely depending on the specific location the grapes were grown, the winemaker’s style, the dosage (small amount of sugar added to the finished wine), and the amount of time the wine is aged.

Are Blanc de Noirs Made Only in Champagne?

The most notable region for Sparkling Blanc de Noirs production is in Champagne. Many Champagne houses make a Blanc de Noirs wine as part of their portfolio.

However, Blanc de Noirs are also made in France outside the Champagne region and in many countries around the world including Italy, South Africa and the United States.

What Grapes are Used to Make Blanc de Noirs?

In Champagne, Blanc de Noirs are made from Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Pinot Noir grapes are known for their delicate flavors, while Pinot Meunier grapes are known for their fruitiness. Blanc de Noirs in Champagne must be made from either or a blend of both varieties.

Pinot Noir and sometimes Pinot Meunier are also the most common grapes used to make Blanc de Noirs outside of Champagne, but technically, any red grape can be used. Outside the Champagne region, there are no restrictions on the grapes that can be used in a Blanc de Noirs. It’s possible, although not common, to find Blanc de Noirs made from other red grapes.

What Types of Food Pair with Blanc de Noirs?

Sparkling Blanc de Noirs wines are a versatile choice for those who want to enjoy a wine with their meal. They can be paired with a variety of dishes, including salads and light seafood, grilled meats, and cheese plates. They are also a great if you are looking for a wine that is easy to drink on its own.

Still Thirsty?

If you want to learn more, here is a curated list of information about Blanc de Noirs.

What does "blanc de noirs" mean when referring to wine?

Blanc de noirs vs blanc de blancs: What’s the difference?