Chardonnay's wheel of aromas

Chardonnay is one of the three main grape varieties used in Champagne production, alongside Pinot Noir and Meunier.
It is the only white grape among them, while the other two are black varieties.

Champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay is known as Blanc de Blancs.

Chardonnay aromas during harvest

At harvest time, tasting a ripe Chardonnay berry already reveals the grape’s signature notes: green apple, pear, lemon, sometimes with delicate mineral or floral hints.

The grapes themselves contain the aromatic precursors that will later define the wine.
However, it is through fermentation and ageing on lees that Chardonnay fully expresses its potential.

These aromas evolve over time.

The aroma wheel of Blanc de Blancs Champagne

The aroma wheel helps us identify and describe the different nuances found in wine.

Below is an overview of the typical aromas of Chardonnay and Blanc de Blancs Champagne that can be found, depending on terroir and ageing, across key areas of Champagne.

The influence of terroir

Champagne is a complex wine region made up of diverse terroirs that shape the character of Chardonnay.

This grape is particularly renowned for its ability to reflect where it grows. Each sub-region contributes its own aromatic signature.

Côte des Blancs

Located south of Épernay, this is Chardonnay’s historic home in Champagne. Its chalky soils produce Blanc de Blancs of remarkable purity.

Young wines: lemon, green apple, white flowers, almond, chalky minerality
With ageing: butter, brioche, dried fruits, honey, earthy notes

Montagne de Reims

Better known for Pinot Noir, it also hosts Chardonnay parcels, especially on northern slopes.

Young wines: citrus (including grapefruit), peach, floral notes
With ageing: toast, brioche, honey, nuts, creamy texture

Vallée de la Marne

Famous for Meunier, yet also home to generous Chardonnay expressions.

Young wines: apple, pear, lemon, acacia, chalky notes
With ageing: baked fruit, brioche, honey, evolving complexity

Côte des Bar

Located in the south, its clay-rich soils produce more structured wines.

Young wines: citrus, peach, floral hints
With ageing: almond, toasted notes, damp earth

Naturally, these profiles are indicative and vary depending on the grower, vintage and winemaking choices.

Why does this matter?

Recognising these nuances enhances our understanding of wine. It allows us to appreciate its quality, ageing potential and food pairing possibilities.

More importantly, it trains the palate and transforms tasting into a true sensory experience. If this aromatic journey inspires you to explore Champagne further, we invite you to discover our selection.

Each bottle reflects a passionate pursuit of quality, where tradition meets innovation.

Taste, savour, and let every bubble tell its story.

Cheers!