What grape is used in Champagne?
Quick answer
Champagne uses three main grapes: Pinot Noir (38% of the vineyard, contributing structure and body), Chardonnay (28%, bringing finesse and elegance) and Pinot Meunier (32%, adding fruit and roundness). Four other minor varieties are permitted but rarely used.
Detailed answer
Champagne relies on a trio of complementary grapes, each contributing an essential dimension to the final blend.
Pinot Noir is the most planted grape in Champagne (about 38% of the vineyard area). This red grape with clear juice provides structure, body and red-fruit character. It dominates the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Bar (Aube). Vinified alone, it creates Blanc de Noirs Champagne (white wine from red grapes).
Chardonnay (roughly 28%) brings finesse, elegance, minerality and ageing potential. It reigns on the Côte des Blancs, between Cramant and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. On its own, it produces Blanc de Blancs — often considered Champagne's purest, most elegant expression.
Pinot Meunier (about 32%) is the quiet but indispensable partner. Earlier ripening and more frost-resistant than Pinot Noir, it dominates the Marne Valley. It contributes fruit, roundness and suppleness, making blends more approachable in their youth. Long regarded as the "junior partner," it is being rehabilitated by a new generation of growers who vinify it solo with exciting results.
Four additional varieties are permitted but account for less than 1% of plantings: Arbane, Petit Meslier, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris (called Fromenteau in Champagne). A handful of rare cuvées feature them.