The composition of the grapes in a Champagne blend is a critical factor in defining the wine’s style. [read the full champagne story]
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
The three primary grapes used are Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier.
Chardonnay, making up 26% of Champagne’s vineyards, thrives on the Côtes des Blancs and the chalky slopes south of Épernay. This grape is relatively easy to grow, though its early budding makes it vulnerable to spring frosts. Chardonnay contributes lightness, freshness, and elegance to the blend, and is the sole grape used in Blanc de Blancs, known for their rich, long-lived character.
Pinot Noir, which constitutes nearly 40% of the plantings, forms the backbone of most blends, imparting body, structure, and strength to the Champagne. It is widely planted throughout the region, particularly in the southern Aube district.
The third grape, Pinot Meunier, accounts for almost 35% of the vineyards. Its hardiness and resistance to spring frosts make it well-suited to the Marne Valley, an area prone to frost. Pinot Meunier ripens well even in challenging years and adds a soft, fruity character to the blend, balancing the more robust flavors of Pinot Noir. While some producers claim that Pinot Meunier lacks ageing potential, this hasn’t stopped Krug from incorporating around 15% of it into their blends.
About this Champagne Masterclass
This serie is a Champagne Master Class with Richard Juhlin. In 14 episodes, you will immerse yourself in the wonderful world of Champagne and discover its secrets and taste sensations under the guidance of the wine’s greatest connoisseur. Introducing the world’s leading Champagne expert – Richard Juhlin. Richard is launching his very first Champagne Master Class where you will learn everything you need to know about the world’s greatest drink, Champagne!
In a unique 14-episode online course, you will learn about the different types of Champagne, evaluating Champagne as a professional, hosting your own Champagne tasting and much more.
You will also get access to a complete 297-page guide where Richard compiles his knowledge and insights from over 30 years in the Champagne industry. Dive deep into his favorite Champagnes, the best Champagne houses, the history of Champagne and various other interesting facts. The ultimate guide for every Champagne lover!
About Richard Juhlin
Richard Juhlin is literally THE Champagne expert. Renowned for his skills in blind tasting, he’s tasted more Champagne than anyone else and holds the world record at over 15,000+ different types!
In between sipping his favourite bubbly, he’s found the time to design glasses and write numerous books. Four of which, Champagne Magnum Opus, Champagne Hiking, The Great Tasting and 3,000 Champagnes, all received the prize for ‘Best Book on French Wines in the World‘. He was also awarded International Champagne Writer of the Year at the The Louis Roederer International Wine Writers’ Awards at Vinexpo in 2005.
Let the world’s number one Champagne expert in the world guide you through the wonderful world of Champagne: Richard Juhlin. Most famous for his skills in blind taste testing, he has held the world record for most Champagne ever tasted – over 14,000+ unique Champagnes! Not only has he enjoyed one of the world’s best Champagne, he also designed Champagne glasses, and he wrote multiple books about Champagne. His book “A scent of Champagne” was translated into five languages and won the prestigious title ‘Best wine book in the world’ at the World Cook Book Awards in Beijing. If there’s one person who could share his knowledge and enthusiasm for France’s greatest gift, it’s Richard.
