Which statement best describes Blanc de Noirs?

• A. Champagne made from black-skinned grapes; Blanc de Noirs uses Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier.
• B. Champagne made only from Chardonnay.
• C. Champagne made from white grapes labeled red variety.
• D. Champagne made by adding red wine to base.

Answer: (A)

Blanc de Noirs means a white Champagne produced from dark-skinned grapes. The typical grapes used are Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Even though the grapes are black-skinned, the juice is pressed with minimal skin contact, so the color from the skins doesn’t transfer to the juice, and the wine stays white. This is different from Blanc de Blancs, which is made exclusively from white grapes (like Chardonnay). The idea of making it from white grapes or adding red wine to the base doesn’t fit the definition of Blanc de Noirs, which is specifically about white Champagne made from dark-skinned grapes.