Champagne Grape Varieties
Discover the Premier and Grand Cru villages in the Reims Mountains, known for red fruits aromas of Pinot Noir grapes, which provide structure and full bodied Champagnes. Do you prefer the fruity and intense and round bouquet of Pinot Meunier, then we head to the Marne Valley. Perhaps you prefer the variety of finesse with floral marks of 100% Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Chardonnay in the Cote de Blancs. Enjoy the unique characteristics of each region during single plot wine comparison cuvee tastings while you learning how the terroir impacts the style, acidity, and taste of each Champagne.
During a visit to specialist vineyards in these villages, you will learn about the various styles, methods of production, fermentation, ageing, yeasts, barrel selection, harvest versus bottled dates, and many other variables that are considered to create a specific style, which represents the terroir of each vineyard.
Our custom designed tours and experiences, take into account your taste profile, travel style, and budget. Based on these criteria we will organize vineyard experiences to make the most out of your time in Champagne and you can look forward to a great welcome, quality Champagne, and an educative interactive visit in English.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay, considered the crown jewel of Champagne, has been cultivated in the Cote des Blancs since medieval times, notably by monks refining viticulture techniques. This grape’s elegance and aging potential make it central to iconic Champagne houses like Taittinger and Ruinart. Prestigious cuvees such as **Salon "Le Mesnil" (EWE96-98) and Agrapart "Venus" (WE94-97) offer pure expressions of Chardonnay.
At Les Berceaux in Epernay, these Blanc de Blancs Champagnes are expertly paired with refined, local dishes for a complete gastronomic experience.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir, one of Champagne’s oldest and most celebrated grapes, has deep roots in the Montagne de Reims, a region with a rich viticultural history dating back to the Roman Empire. This grape is essential for prestigious houses like Bollinger and Louis Roederer, known for its bold and structured flavor. Single-vineyard cuvees such as **Bollinger "Vieilles Vignes Francaises" (Wine Enthusiast WE 95-97) and Egly-Ouriet "Les Crayeres" (WE 94-96) showcase the depth of this grape.
For a culinary experience, visit L’Assiette Champenoisein Tinqueux, where these Champagnes complement inventive dishes.
Pinot Meunier
In the Vallee de la Marne, Pinot Meunier has thrived for centuries due to its resilience and fruity character. Historically embraced by local farmers, this grape adds freshness and balance to blends from brands like Moet & Chandon and Telmont. Notable cuvees like Jerome Prevost "La Closerie Les Beguines"*(WE94-96) and Alexandre Chartogne "Les Barres" (WE 92-94) have become favorites among Champagne connoisseurs.
For an exquisite pairing, Le Parc at Les Crayeres in Reims serves these wines with creative regional cuisine.
The Art of Blending
Champagne's winemakers are masters of blending, combining grapes from various parcels across the region to create sparkling wines that are greater than the sum of their parts. This approach allows them to craft distinctive wines that truly embody the essence of their unique terroirs. The Cru classification system is used as a flexible tool by these vintners to highlight specific flavors and styles, rather than as a rigid measure of quality.
Winemakers blend grapes from multiple parcels of vines across the various Crus to create a specific style and based on where they own vineyards. Winemakers, think of the Cru classification in terms of specific flavours, style and maturity rather than an objective measure of quality as the Cru classification makes no account for changes in climate, farming techniques or production procedures that have occurred over the past hundred years or so. It doesn’t discriminate when it comes to vineyards, either. An outstanding vineyard on the borders of a cru-designated village can never hope to achieve a cru classification. The best winemaker's are passionate, and dedicated to reflect the best of the terroir in their wines.