Which grape is used in Franciacorta that is different from those used in Champagne?

• A. Pinot Blanc instead of Pinot Meunier
• B. Chardonnay instead of Pinot Noir
• C. Pinot Gris instead of Pinot Meunier
• D. Sauvignon Blanc instead of Chardonnay

Answer: (A)

The key idea is the typical grape composition of each sparkling wine region. Franciacorta commonly blends Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Bianco (Pinot Blanc). Champagne, on the other hand, blends Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. So the grape that Franciacorta uses that Champagne does not is Pinot Blanc (Pinot Bianco). The other options don’t reflect the standard regional difference: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir appear in both regions, while Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc aren’t the defining contrast between the two.