Blanc de Noirs is typically lower in acidity than Blanc de Blancs due to which factor?

• A. Because the grapes are black-skinned varieties naturally lower acidity.
• B. Because it is produced using a different fermentation method.
• C. Because of the grape varieties involved.
• D. Because it is always a vintage wine.

Answer: (C)

The acidity level is determined by the grapes themselves. Blanc de Blancs uses Chardonnay, a white grape that naturally preserves higher acidity and a crisper bite. Blanc de Noirs uses black-skinned grapes (Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier), whose inherent acidity profile is typically lower. So the main difference in acidity between the two styles comes from the grape varieties involved.