Champagne, a product of luxury and world known. But what do we even know about the history of this century old product and where it comes from? For those who want to learn more and step back in time, Reims, a significant city within the Champagne-Ardenne region, is the place you will want to visit! Known for its historical connection to champagne production, in this cozy city in France, you will be surrounded by the original champagne houses, from the time when champagne was created.

Reims is located approximately 90 miles northeast of Paris, making it easily accessible for visitors. In this blog we will tell you more about our favorite champagne houses to visit and why you should too!

History

The history of the champagne houses goes way back, around 300 years actually. Can you imagine how long the houses already exist and are still in service? Yes that’s right, the houses are still producing champagne. Although not all of the houses are open for visitors, there are still more than enough options to explore, what makes it even nicer is that even if you’re not a champagne lover, some houses will still ring a bell for you.

Let’s get back in time first. The first champagne houses were build around the years 1700. The houses bought grapes and produced sparkling wine. Because of its origin, you can actually only call the drink champagne when it’s made in the Champagne area in France, otherwise it’s just sparkling wine. Back in the days, champagne was a drink that was served with important events like coronations that were being held in Reims. Even now, champagne is mostly still seen as a drink used for celebrations.

Reims has a rich history that dates back to Roman times, with remnants like a triumphal arch contributing to its cultural landscape.

Houses to visit

Reims offers many different champagne houses, around 2,000 different are located in the champagne area. As a significant city within the Champagne wine region, Reims plays a crucial role in the production and export of champagne wine, with many cellars beneath the city used for storage and aging. Which one should you choose when your time is limited? Visiting independent growers is also a crucial aspect of experiencing the Champagne region, as they offer unique insights into the local terroir. Here are four of our favorite houses in the area.

The Montagne de Reims is a significant geographical region known for its vineyards and the cultivation of the Pinot Meunier grape.

Vranken Pommery Champagne House

Vranken Pommery is probably one of the houses that will ring a bell even for those who don’t drink champagne that often. Besides its popularity, what makes these cellars even more special is that they are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The Vranken Pommery Champagne House is also conveniently located near the Notre Dame Cathedral, a significant historical and architectural landmark in Reims. In 1860 Madame Pommery started with the champagne production which is until this day still very popular. When visiting the cellars you will also come across some amazing art pieces. Feel free to take a guided tour or explore by yourself, ending the tour either way with an incredible tasting of Pommery.

Veuve Clicquot Champagne House

Veuve Clicquot champagne production started in the year 1772, being a real original. Its real popularity skyrocketed in the year 1810 due to a new commercial strategy, and it worked! Until this day the yellow label champagne is still very popular. The tours are a bit pricier but still very worth it. We would definitely recommend to book a reservation beforehand.

Moet and Chandon Champagne House

Moet and Chandon can definitely not be missed on this list as it is currently the number 1 champagne producer. Besides being number 1, the champagne house also has the largest undergrounds cellars from around 28 kilometers. Explore the famous cellars while also trying the most popular product found all over the world. Prices for tickets vary due to the different ticket options.

Ruinart Champagne House

Ruinart, one of the oldest Champagne houses, founded in the year 1729 by Nicholas Ruinart. Ruinart has always been at the front line of the champagne history. Being one of the first houses that seized the business opportunities. Take a tour at one of the most important houses and try some award winning champagne.