Easy to Visit Wineries in Reims: A Champagne Lover's Guide
Nestled in the heart of the Champagne region, Reims is a city that epitomizes the art of champagne making. For those looking to explore this sparkling wine paradise, here's a guide to some of the best wineries in Reims, each offering a unique and memorable experience.
1. Champagne Taittinger Known for its elegant and refined champagnes, Taittinger offers a beautiful tour that includes a visit to the ancient Roman chalk caves. Their signature wine, the Comtes de Champagne, is a must-try. The historical ambiance and the quality of their champagnes make Taittinger a top choice for visitors.
2. Champagne Pommery Housed in an impressive Elizabethan-style estate, Pommery is famous for its Brut Royal and innovative art exhibitions in their chalk cellars. The tour provides a blend of history, art, and excellent champagne, making it a culturally enriching experience.
3. Champagne Ruinart As the oldest established Champagne house, Ruinart's cellars are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Their Blanc de Blancs is particularly celebrated for its freshness and elegance. A visit to Ruinart is a journey through time, with a focus on tradition and exquisite taste.
4. Champagne Veuve Clicquot One of the most renowned champagne houses, Veuve Clicquot offers a comprehensive tour of their cellars, showcasing their rich history and famous Yellow Label Brut. The story of Madame Clicquot, the "Grande Dame of Champagne," adds a fascinating historical dimension to the visit.
5. Champagne Lanson Known for its fresh and fruity champagnes, Lanson provides an engaging tour that highlights their unique vinification process and extensive aging cellars. Their commitment to traditional methods and modern innovation makes Lanson a favorite among champagne enthusiasts.
6. Champagne Mumm Famous for its Cordon Rouge, Mumm offers a dynamic tour that includes a visit to their impressive cellars and a tasting session of their diverse range of champagnes. The brand's emphasis on adventure and excellence is evident in every glass.
7. Champagne Martel A family-owned house with a cozy and intimate atmosphere, Martel is known for its rich and full-bodied champagnes. Their tour includes a charming history of the family and their production methods, making it a personal and heartwarming experience.
8. Champagne De Saint Gall Specializing in Grand Cru champagnes, De Saint Gall offers a tour focused on the quality of their vineyards and the meticulous care that goes into their wine production. This is a perfect choice for those who appreciate the finer details of champagne crafting.
9. Champagne Charles de Cazanove With a history dating back to 1811, Charles de Cazanove is celebrated for its classic and harmonious champagnes. The tour provides insights into their traditional methods and modern innovations, offering a well-rounded view of their champagne-making process.
10. Champagne G.H. Martel & Co Located in a beautiful 19th-century mansion, this house offers a warm and personal tour experience, highlighting their artisanal approach to champagne making. The intimate setting and dedication to quality make G.H. Martel & Co a hidden gem in Reims.
Exploring these wineries will not only give you a deeper appreciation for champagne but also a taste of the rich history and culture of Reims. Whether you're a seasoned champagne lover or a curious novice, these tours offer something special for everyone. Cheers to your next sparkling adventure!
For assistance on planning your trip to Champagne, see Vintage Departures for more.
