The champagne region
In a large part of northern France, everything revolves around one thing: the production of champagne. The most beautiful and delicious bubbles in the world are crafted here. The Champagne region is a beautiful, green-rich area in northern France.
Contents:
Location of the Champagne Region
Regions in the Champagne Region
The Champagne region is divided into five regions. Each region has its own famous champagne houses, villages, and primary grape variety.
Montagne de Reims
A region located between Reims and Epernay. The vineyards are situated between the forested Massif and agricultural plain. Key villages in the Montagne de Reims region include Ambonnay, Verzy, Verzenay, Ay-Champagne, and Bouzy. Pinot grape plays a significant role in this region, with a much lower percentage of Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier vineyards. The following well-known champagne houses from our assortment are based in the Montagne de Reims region:
Côte des Blancs
A beautiful area with a hill range rising over 250 meters above the land. The vineyards on the slopes feature deep ravines created by rivers. Côte des Blancs is highly suitable for the growth of the Chardonnay grape, which accounts for 97% of the plantings in this region.
Epernay is a well-known part of the Champagne region. It's the heart of the area and also belongs to Côte des Blancs. The vineyards on the east consist of chalky soil. With 30,000 hectares of vineyards and a glance at history, Epernay is the center of champagne production. Some of the most famous champagne houses located in Epernay are:
The most famous champagne houses are located on the main and well-known street in Epernay. This street is a crucial part of the Champagne region. Beneath this important street of Epernay, many champagne houses store their stock, and the wine continues its maturation process.
Côte de Sézanne
Côte de Sézanne is an extension of Côte des Blancs. The Chardonnay grape dominates in this region as well, but the maturation process here is different. The expression of the grape in this area is rounder and fuller. The soil mainly consists of clay, with some parts composed of chalk. The vineyards are located to the southeast, and thanks to this favorable position, the wines can be more fruity, full, and mature.
Côte des Bar
A stunning region for lovers of fine bubbles, remarkable vineyards, typical winemaker houses, and winding cellars. Long stretches of land form the champagne vineyards. It constitutes the main region producing champagne. With over 7,650 hectares of vineyards, they produce a quarter of the 321 million champagne bottles sold worldwide annually.
Vallée de la Marne
A region located along the Marne River. In the past, this was an important trade route for transporting grapes and wines. In this region, predominantly Pinot Meunier grapes grow. The soil is characterized by excellent subsoil and topsoil. Due to the outstanding location and soil condition, the Pinot Meunier grapes grow very rapidly.
Visit to the Champagne Region
Want to learn more about champagne? Where better than in the country and region of Champagne itself? An unforgettable destination for wine enthusiasts, champagne toasters, and those who love picturesque villages.
From Maastricht, it's just a three-hour drive. Explore the various villages by car, encountering not only the major champagne houses but also individual farmers producing their own champagnes. Alternatively, a journey with the Thalys is also an option. Take the Thalys to Paris and then board the train to Reims. Soon enough, you'll find yourself sipping champagne.
If you want to enjoy not only the delightful bubbles but also some sun and beautiful blooming grapevines, the best travel time is between May and August. However, the harvest festival is also a great experience. Keep an eye on the months of September and October.
A journey through the Champagne region is definitely worthwhile!