The famous Côte des Blancs is almost exclusively dedicated to the production of white Chardonnay grapes. The appellation has 2333 operators and around 10 villages. The Chardonnay grape variety dominates with 97% of vineyards, 1% Pinot Meunier and 2% Pinot Noir.
Terroir
The region begins just south of Épernay and the vineyards follow the Brie plateau perpendicular to the Marne river valley. The whole appellation covers about 10-15km northeast-southwest with a total cultivable area of slightly under 3,200 hectares.
The Côte des Blancs has 6 Grand Cru villages which is second only to the Montagne de Reims. The appellation lies on a thick outcrop of sloping chalk that mostly faces east, the orientation gives excellent exposure to the sun. Chalk is an excellent source of water for vine roots. The roots which can reach 7m depth, draw up water by capillary action, and keep the vines hydrated even when the weather is dry. The region grows some of the worlds greatest Chardonnay grapes. The grapes are famous for their finesse and fine aroma. All the top Champagne houses source Chardonnay grapes from the area. Chardonnay has particularly good aging potential and vintage and single vineyard Blanc de Blanc Champagnes are popular.
Tourism
The village of Vertus is one of the most picturesque in the appellation, home of the famous Champagne Duval-Leroy. One of our favorite small producers François Vallois is located in the nearby village of Bergères-les-Vertus.
The village of Mesnil-sur-Oger has an excellent Champagne Museum that is well worth visiting. The next village is the Grand Cru village of Oger that has several fine top producers that are well visiting.
There are some beautiful Château in the appellation e.g. Château d’Etoge in the village of Etoge and the nearby Montmort Lucy.
The picturesque Château d’Etoge is a hotel with a famous restaurant that is heavily patronized by locals and tourists alike. Château d’Etoge makes an outstanding base to visit the Côte des Blancs and Cote de Sezanne. There are 2 excellent producers in Etoge, Ruffin et Fils and Borel-Lucas that are a short walk from the Chateau.
With so much world class Blanc de Blanc to taste a visit to the Côte des Blancs is a must for any Champagne enthusiast. And why not drive 30 minutes south the the Côte de Sézanne which is an extension of the Côte des Blancs.
