As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that a Blanc de Noir is a type of Champagne that is made exclusively from black grape varieties. The term “Blanc de Noir” translates to “white from black” in French, which refers to the fact that the Champagne is made from black grapes, but the flesh of these grapes is actually white.
When it comes to Champagne production, there are three main grape varieties that are used: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Chardonnay is a white grape variety, while Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are black grape varieties. Blanc de Noir Champagnes are made using either Pinot Noir grapes, Pinot Meunier grapes, or a combination of both.
The process of making a Blanc de Noir Champagne involves pressing the black grapes gently to extract the juice without any contact with the skins, which is what gives the wine its color. By using only the clear juice from black grapes, the resulting wine is a beautiful pale golden color, similar to that of a traditional white Champagne.
Blanc de Noir Champagnes tend to have a unique flavor profile compared to other types of Champagne. They often exhibit rich and full-bodied characteristics, with flavors of red fruits such as cherries and raspberries. They can also have pronounced aromas of yeast and bread, as well as a creamy texture on the palate.
One of my personal experiences with Blanc de Noir Champagne was when I had the opportunity to visit a Champagne house in the region of Champagne, France. During the visit, I had the chance to taste a variety of Champagnes, including a Blanc de Noir. The wine had a beautiful pale gold color and a delicate aroma of red fruits. On the palate, it was rich and full-bodied, with a creamy texture and a long, elegant finish.
A Blanc de Noir is a Champagne made exclusively from black grape varieties, such as Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier. Despite being made from black grapes, the resulting wine is white in color due to the gentle pressing of the grapes to extract only the clear juice. Blanc de Noir Champagnes offer a unique flavor profile, often showcasing rich red fruit flavors and a creamy texture.