The world of Champagne has quietly opened a new chapter. The grape variety known as Pink Chardonnay — also called “Chardonnay Rosé” — has been formally authorised for use in the Champagne appellation, becoming the eighth permitted grape variety.
What Has Changed?
In July 2025, the regional governing body for Champagne, the Comité Champagne, updated its appellation rules to include Pink Chardonnay among the authorised grape varieties. Until now, the list included seven grapes: Chardonnay Blanc, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Petit Meslier and Arbane.
Pink Chardonnay is a natural mutation of Chardonnay Blanc, first identified in the early 1900s in both the Champagne and Burgundy regions. Until now, it remained very rare and mostly confined to vine collections or isolated plantings.
Why Does It Matter?
1. Biodiversity & Heritage
The inclusion of Pink Chardonnay reflects a conscious decision to preserve vine heritage and diversify vine stocks in Champagne. The move is being described as “a small revolution in the vineyard” by industry commentators.
2. Adaptation & Climate Resilience
In a time of shifting climate conditions, the ability to work with more grape varieties provides winemakers with additional tools. While Pink Chardonnay behaves very similarly to Chardonnay Blanc, its unique genetic background may offer subtle advantages in freshness or acidity.
3. Marketing & Consumer Interest
From a commercial perspective, this is a compelling story. Rare grape, revived heritage variety, Champagne — that narrative has appeal. Early adopters may use this grape as a differentiator in cuvées.
What Should You Expect from the Wine?
According to available information, the oenological (winemaking) properties of Pink Chardonnay are very similar to standard Chardonnay: comparable ripening patterns, freshness, and acidity. Some sources suggest it may be slightly more vibrant in acidity.
Because the grape has just been authorised, we should not expect widespread planting or prominent use in bottlings immediately. The “minor” varieties together currently account for roughly 0.5 % of the Champagne vineyard area.
For the discerning wine drinker: When you see a Champagne that mentions Pink Chardonnay or highlights a special cuvée, it may offer a subtle twist on classic Chardonnay-style Champagne — worth tasting for nuance rather than expecting dramatic difference.
My Take
this is a smart move by the Champagne region. It balances respect for tradition (keeping the core grapes and style) with openness to evolution. As someone whose palate enjoys subtlety, I view Pink Chardonnay as an incremental refinement rather than a dramatic departure — but one that has long-term significance.
Think of it as Champagne signalling: “We will preserve what we have, but we aren’t frozen in time.” In an era of climate instability and shifting consumer preferences, that flexibility
To read the full announcement and explore further details, check the original article here: “Pink Chardonnay joins Champagne’s list of authorised grape varieties” on The Drinks Business.
