Blanc de Blanc Champagne is generally considered to be a dry sparkling wine. The term “Blanc de Blanc” means “white from white” in French, indicating that the wine is made exclusively from white grapes, specifically Chardonnay.
In Champagne, the sweetness level of the wine is indicated by the dosage, which is a mixture of sugar and wine added to the bottle after the initial fermentation. This dosage determines whether the Champagne is classified as Brut, Extra Brut, or Brut Nature.
Brut Champagne is the most common style and is typically dry, with a sugar content of less than 12 grams per liter. It is crisp, refreshing, and showcases the natural acidity and fruitiness of the Chardonnay grape. Extra Brut Champagne has even less sugar, usually under 6 grams per liter, resulting in an even drier and more austere wine. Lastly, Brut Nature Champagne, also known as zero dosage or non-dosage Champagne, has no added sugar at all, making it the driest style of Blanc de Blanc Champagne.
I must admit, as a sommelier, I have a fondness for Blanc de Blanc Champagne. Its dryness and elegance make it a versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods. I have had the pleasure of tasting some exceptional Blanc de Blancs from Champagne houses such as Salon, Pierre Peters, and Krug. These wines display a beautiful balance of acidity, minerality, and complexity, with no hint of sweetness.
It's worth noting that while Blanc de Blanc Champagne is typically dry, there may be some variations in sweetness level depending on the producer and the specific cuvée. Some Champagne houses may choose to make a sweeter style of Blanc de Blancs, known as “Sec” or “Demi-Sec,” which have a higher dosage and more residual sugar. However, these styles are less common and are usually labeled as such.
Outside of Champagne, Blanc de Blanc sparkling wines from other regions around the world also tend to be dry. For example, Blanc de Blancs from regions like the Loire Valley in France, California, and Australia are generally produced in a dry style. These wines can offer a unique expression of the Chardonnay grape, showcasing the characteristics of the specific terroir in which they are grown.
Blanc de Blanc Champagne is typically a dry sparkling wine, designated as Brut, Extra Brut, or Brut Nature. While there may be variations in sweetness level among different producers, the majority of Blanc de Blancs are dry and showcase the elegance and purity of the Chardonnay grape. So if you're looking for a dry and refreshing sparkling wine, Blanc de Blanc Champagne is definitely a great choice.