CHOOSING CHAMPAGNE STYLES
How to Choose Without Second-Guessing
How Champagne Is Made to Feel
Champagne style describes the structure, weight, and personality of the wine — not the brand name on the label.
Once you understand Champagne styles, choosing a bottle becomes far less intimidating.
You stop guessing and start recognising what will feel right at your table.
This page explains the main Champagne styles you’ll see on labels, what they mean, and when to choose them.
NON-VINTAGE (NV)
What it is
A blend of wines from multiple years, created to deliver consistency and balance.
How it feels
Fresh, reliable, and approachable.
When to choose it
- Hosting guests with mixed tastes
- Aperitif Champagne
- Everyday elegance
- When you want something that works with almost any food
At My Table
This is the most generous and forgiving style of Champagne.
VINTAGE
What it is
Made from grapes harvested in a single exceptional year.
How it feels
More depth, more structure, more presence.
When to choose it
- Dinner with food
- Special occasions
- When you want Champagne to feel more serious and layered
At My Table
Vintage Champagne rewards attention and time.
BLANC DE BLANCS
What it is
Made entirely from Chardonnay grapes.
How it feels
Crisp, elegant, mineral, often very refined.
When to choose it
- Seafood and shellfish
- Light starters
- When you want freshness and finesse
At My Table
This is Champagne in a tailored suit — clean, precise, and graceful.
BLANC DE NOIRS
What it is
Made from Pinot Noir and/or Meunier grapes.
How it feels
Richer, fuller, more structured, sometimes slightly savoury.
When to choose it
- Food-forward meals
- Charcuterie or richer dishes
- When you want Champagne with weight and depth
At My Table
This style surprises people who think Champagne is always light.
ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE
What it is
Champagne with colour and additional expression, made by blending or maceration.
How it feels
Fresh, expressive, and versatile.
When to choose it
- Aperitif with personality
- Light meals
- When you want Champagne that feels celebratory but relaxed
At My Table
Rosé can be elegant or bold — the producer matters.
Zelda’s Table Note
If you’re unsure which style suits you best, start with Non-Vintage Brut.
It’s the most balanced expression of Champagne and the easiest to enjoy.