Wines of Terroir. Wines of a Place.
How many types of Champagne do we make, and where are they from?
Let's get right into it. Our five Michel Foch Champagnes have been produced from different parts of the Champagne region, which has specialized in perfecting winegrowing and the méthode champenoise process for the last 300+ years. Méthode Champenoise means "the Champagne Method" in French, reflecting the unique technique and craft of making Champagne.
In our Michel Foch Champagne, we source three types of grapes from different sub-regions within Champagne, France. These sub-regions make each type of Champagne unique, and it all comes down to terroir.
Within the Champagne region, five main sub-regions contribute their own distinct terroir and grape expression:
Michel Foch Champagne utilizes three classic grape varieties:
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Pinot Noir - This is the most widely planted grape in Champagne. It thrives on the slopes of the Montagne de Reims (between Reims and Épernay) and also in the Côte des Bar (Aube) further south. Pinot Noir contributes structure, body, and red-fruit notes to Champagne blends.
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Chardonnay - Primarily planted in the Côte des Blancs, just south of Épernay, but also found in the Montagne de Reims and Côte de Sézanne. It brings elegance, citrus and floral notes, and longevity to Champagne.
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Pinot Meunier - Grown mainly in the Vallée de la Marne (especially the western part). It is prized for its fruitiness, roundness, and early approachability, balancing the structure of Pinot Noir and the finesse of Chardonnay.
The wine is then cellared, aged, and produced to our specifications in Reims, France.
President Mike Reynolds and Vintner, Kathryn Hall, visiting our cellar in Reims, France.
Why It Matters
When Champagne makers blend wines from different sub-regions, they’re essentially weaving together terroirs to balance structure, freshness, fruit, and elegance. And that's exactly what we do here with Michel Foch Champagne. Ready to taste the difference?! Shop our Champagne selection, or taste when you visit our tasting rooms!
Terroir explains why no two Champagnes taste exactly alike — the land itself leaves a signature in every glass.