I LOVE ENGLISH BLANC DE BLANCS AND HERE’S WHY.
There’s something undeniably magical about a glass of Blanc de Blancs. The name itself feels elegant, doesn’t it? It’s a wine style that’s synonymous with sophistication and celebration.
Yet, often it’s overlooked in favour of a more traditional blend of Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (i.e. the classic Champagne trio or classic cuvée.) Which incidentally are oft more expensive than Blanc de Blancs.
I make no secret of the fact that I love Chardonnay, and in my view, Blanc de Blancs shows it off superbly. For me, English Blanc de Blancs takes that magic to another level.
Maybe it’s the bright, racy acidity or the delicate bubbles that feel like a bit of a spicy fiesta in your mouth. Or perhaps it’s the fact that English winemakers, blessed with the perfect climate for growing Chardonnay, have truly mastered the art of this sparkling classic. Whatever the reason, one thing is clear: I’m utterly in love with English Blanc de Blancs.
What Is Blanc de Blancs?
First things first, what does Blanc de Blancs actually mean? Simply put, it’s sparkling wine made entirely from white grapes. In most cases, that means 100% Chardonnay, though occasionally other white grape varieties like Pinot Blanc or Pinot Gris might make a cameo.
Blanc de Blancs is often lighter, more refined, and more citrus-driven than its sibling, Blanc de Noirs (made from black grapes). It’s all about elegance, precision, and those crisp, clean flavours that dance on your palate.
While France’s Champagne region is the traditional home of Blanc de Blancs, England has rapidly carved out a reputation for producing some of the finest examples in the world.
Why English Blanc de Blancs Stands Out
English Blanc de Blancs is special because it captures the very essence of what makes English sparkling wine so extraordinary. Our climate plays a huge role in this. The cooler temperatures mean grapes ripen slowly, developing bright acidity and complex flavours along the way.
This natural freshness is the hallmark of English sparkling wine, and it shines particularly brightly in Blanc de Blancs. Expect vibrant notes of green apple, lemon zest, and white flowers, often balanced by richer hints of brioche and toasted almonds from time spent ageing on the lees.
What’s more, many English producers are small, family-run operations with a meticulous focus on quality. The attention to detail—both in the vineyard and the winery—means each bottle of Blanc de Blancs feels like an artisan product.
My Favourite English Blanc de Blancs
If you’re keen to try some excellent English Blanc de Blancs, here are three standout bottles to consider:
1/ Oxney Organic Blanc de Blancs 2019
A sparkling wine crafted with organic Chardonnay grapes, Oxney’s Blanc de Blancs 2019 is a beautifully fresh and zesty choice.
Expect elegant citrus notes, crisp green apple, and a delicate mousse—a perfect pairing for light seafood dishes, spicy feasts or simply enjoyed as an aperitif.
Incidentally, Oxney offer a fantastic tour and picnic. A chance to try their Blanc de Blancs and a few more special wines.
Buy it direct from Oxney Organic here for £41.
2/ Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 2019
Gusbourne consistently sets the standard for English sparkling wines, and their 2019 Blanc de Blancs is no exception.
This wine combines creamy brioche aromas with vibrant lemon and orchard fruit flavors. It’s refined, structured, and perfect for celebrations or indulgent evenings at home.
This also makes an excellent gifting wine, I bought a bottle of the Blanc de Blancs as a wedding present recently.
Buy it direct from Gusbourne online for £65 per bottle.
3/ Lyme Bay Blanc de Blancs 2017
Lyme Bay’s Blanc de Blancs 2017 is a vintage beauty, showcasing the richness and complexity of Chardonnay from cooler English vineyards. Lyme Bay are known for their Chardonnay grapes, and this is no exception.
Expect hints of toasted almond, baked apple, and a touch of minerality. It’s versatile enough to complement everything from soft cheeses to festive roasts.
Buy it direct from Lyme Bay winery for £35.
What Makes Blanc de Blancs So Irresistible?
For me, the charm of Blanc de Blancs lies in its versatility. It’s elegant enough to serve at a wedding but approachable enough to enjoy on a quiet Friday evening. It’s the kind of wine that makes you sit up and take notice, yet it never feels fussy or over the top.
Then there’s the texture. There’s something so satisfying about the delicate mousse (that’s the wine geek term for the bubbles), combined with that zingy acidity and creamy finish. It’s just joyful.
And let’s not forget the sense of place. When you drink an English Blanc de Blancs, you’re tasting more than just the grapes—you’re tasting the chalky soils, the cool breezes, and the sheer dedication of the winemaker.
Where to next?
A few of my favourite things
Looking for a gift for yourself or a wine lover in your life? Here are a few of my favourite English Wine things.
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