Grapes varietals in Champagne

[joeyz6]

What is the standard combination of varietals in Champagne, or does it vary a lot? I think I've read that Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the principals, but is there a third? Thanks and happy new year!

[Drew]

The third is Pinot Meunier.

Drew

[barnesy]

Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the better quality grapes used in Champagne, the ones that get the press, but Pinot Meunier is the regions most planted grape and thus the most common grape to appear in Champagne.

Barnesy