Champagne Styles
Wine10/28/2025
The Diverse Styles of Champagne
Champagne exhibits extremely diverse personalities depending on the grape varieties used, aging period, and the amount of dosage (sugar addition) that adjusts sweetness.
Non-Vintage (NV)
Made by blending wines from multiple harvest years (particularly reserve wines from past vintages) to consistently express the house style. Emphasis is placed on maintaining consistent quality and flavor. This is the most commonly available style, often considered the "face" of Champagne.
Vintage
Made using only grapes from a single exceptional harvest year. Because it strongly reflects the terroir, climate, and character of that specific year, the winemaker's philosophy and the year's characteristics are most clearly expressed. Legal aging periods are longer, with superior complexity and aging potential, often requiring time to reach optimal drinking.
Blanc de Blancs
Meaning "white from white," made exclusively from white Chardonnay grapes. The Côte des Blancs region is particularly famous. Overflowing with lemon, white flowers, and minerality, characterized by light, delicate, and extremely fresh acidity. Elegant and refined, some develop complex toast notes with long aging.
Blanc de Noirs
Meaning "white from black," made using only the juice of black grapes (Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, or both). Structured body with a powerful, rich style. Features red fruit flavors (raspberry, cherry) and spicy notes.


