The Champagne Wine Region

A small wine region known for the production of Champagne, the sparkling white wine, with its city of Reims and town of Epernay, 143 km Northeast of Paris, France. The unique chalky landscape of the region led to the production of sparkling wine in the 17^th and 18^th centuries from the Chardonnay, Pinot noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes. For a first time visit in the area visit the towns of Reims and Epernay and the area in between including Châtillon-sur-Marne the gateway to the region coming from Paris.
In Reims, the capital of the region, visit the famous 13^th century Gothic Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Reims where French kings were coronated. Admire the beautiful “Rose” (circular) stained glass windows and the magnificent 20^th century Marc Chagall windows. Adjacent to the Cathedral visit the Reims Archbishop’s palace, the 17^th century Neoclassic Palais de Tau, home to the cathedral art and tapestries collection, and the marvelous collection of mainly religious artifacts and precious items. If time allows consider visiting the Musee Saint-Remi in the former Abbey of Saint-Remi to explore its archaeology and art collection, and admire the Porte de Mars, the 3^rd century Roman triumphal arch at Place de la Republique. For the main purpose of your visit, enjoy Champagne tastings in one of the champagne houses in town such as Taittinger, and visit a local vineyard such as Veuve Clicquot, Pommery and Villa Demoiselle. Learn about the wine production process while enjoying the delightful Champagne. In the town of Epernay stroll the Avenue de Champagne which holds millions of Champagne bottles in its underground caves/cellars.
The Avenue is home to the major wineries’ headquarters located in magnificent buildings, wineries such as Moet & Chandon, Laurent Perrier, Boizel, Venoge, and others. Near town in the picturesque village of Hautvillers visit the Abbaye d’Hautvillers, Eglise Saint Sindulphe de l’Abbaye, on the edge of the Reims Mountain Nature Reserve and overlooking the surrounding valley. The Abbey is famous for its cellar master Dom Perignon who served the abbey from 1668 to his death. Surrounding Epernay are beautiful small villages and great vineyards worth visiting including Ay, Cramant, Pierry, Moussy, and Hautvillers. For Vineyards tours consult the tourist information office at 7 Avenue de Champagne. If you want to spend more time in the region, consider visiting the beautiful towns of Medieval Troyes, the former region’s capital in the south, and Chalons-en-Champagne with its beautiful churches, half-timbered houses and gardens, in the southeast.
Access the region driving from Paris or using express trains (TGV) from Paris to Reims (45 minutes ride) or to Epernay (1.5 hours ride). A train is also available between Reims and Epernay. Spend 1-2 days in the Champagne region preferably during October and November once the harvest is over.