Travel Tips for Visiting Champagne

Visiting Champagne, France, can be an unforgettable experience filled with sparkling wines, beautiful landscapes, and rich history. Here are some essential travel tips to help you make the most of your trip to Champagne:

Plan Ahead

• Book Tastings in Advance: Many of the prestigious champagne houses require reservations for tours and tastings. Plan and book these in advance, especially during peak seasons.

• Research Champagne Houses: Each champagne house offers a unique experience. Research to find the ones that match your interests, whether it's large famous brands or smaller family-run vineyards.

Transportation

• Car Rental: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the region, especially the rural areas and vineyards. Ensure you have a GPS or a reliable map.

• Trains and Buses: Regional trains (TER) and buses connect major towns and cities. Check schedules in advance as services can be less frequent on weekends and holidays.

• Bike Rentals: Consider renting a bike for a leisurely way to explore the vineyards and scenic routes.

Best Times to Visit

• Harvest Season (September): Visiting during the grape harvest offers a unique opportunity to see the winemaking process in action and participate in harvest festivals.

• Spring and Summer: Enjoy mild weather, blooming landscapes, and numerous outdoor activities and events.

• Winter: Experience festive Christmas markets and fewer tourists, although some champagne houses may have limited opening times.

Local Etiquette

• Champagne Tasting Etiquette: When tasting champagne, it’s polite to follow the guide’s instructions and appreciate each pour. It’s common to discuss the aromas, flavors, and overall impressions.

• Dining Etiquette: In restaurants, it’s customary to greet with "Bonjour" (good day) and "Merci" (thank you) to staff. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.

• Respect for Vineyards: Be respectful when visiting vineyards; avoid touching the vines or grapes without permission.

• Tasting Etiquette: It’s customary to hold your glass by the stem to avoid warming the champagne with your hands. Swirl gently and take small sips to appreciate the flavor fully.

Accommodation

• Stay in Champagne Houses: Many vineyards offer guest accommodations, providing a unique experience of staying amidst the vines.

• Boutique Hotels and B&Bs: Consider charming boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts in towns like Reims, Épernay, and Troyes for a more personalized stay.

Local Cuisine

• Try Regional Specialties: Don’t miss out on local dishes like Jambon de Reims, Andouillette de Troyes, and Biscuits Roses de Reims.

• Gourmet Dining: Book a table at Michelin-starred restaurants for a fine dining experience paired with the best champagnes.

Packing Tips

• Comfortable Shoes: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring vineyards, towns, and historic sites.

• Layered Clothing: The weather can vary, so pack layers to stay comfortable, especially if you plan to visit cellars which can be cool even in summer.

• Wine Shipping Materials: If you plan to buy champagne, check with the producers about shipping options or bring appropriate packing materials if you intend to transport bottles yourself.

Understanding the Appellations

• Familiarize Yourself with Sub-Regions: Champagne is divided into several sub-regions including Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Blancs, and Côte des Bar. Each area has its unique terroir and champagne styles.

• Terroir Tours: Consider taking a tour that focuses on the different terroirs to understand how geography and climate influence the taste of champagne.

Champagne House Visits

• Large vs. Small Producers: Visit both renowned large houses like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger, and smaller family-run vineyards for a comprehensive experience.

• Unique Tours: Some houses offer unique experiences such as blending workshops, where you can create your own champagne, or tours of historical cellars.

Specialty Champagne Types

• Vintage and Non-Vintage: Learn the difference between vintage (made from grapes of a single year) and non-vintage (a blend of several years) champagnes.

• Rosé Champagne: Don't miss tasting rosé champagne, known for its distinct color and fruity flavor.

• Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs: Try Blanc de Blancs (made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes) and Blanc de Noirs (made from Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier grapes).

Optimal Tasting Experiences

• Palate Cleanser: Between tastings, eat plain bread or crackers to cleanse your palate.

• Ideal Serving Temperature: Champagne is best served chilled, around 8-10°C (46-50°F). If the house doesn't serve it cold enough for your liking, politely request an ice bucket.

• Proper Glassware: Flutes are traditional, but tulip-shaped glasses can enhance the aroma and flavor of the champagne.

Buying Champagne

• Local Shops: Purchase champagne directly from the producers or local wine shops where you can often get better prices and authentic experiences.

• Shipping Options: Check if the champagne house offers international shipping, or pack your bottles carefully in special wine transport cases if you're taking them home yourself.

Unique Experiences

• Harvest Participation: Some vineyards allow visitors to participate in the grape harvest, providing a hands-on experience of winemaking.

• Cellar Dinners: Look for special events or dinners held in the cellars of champagne houses, offering a unique dining experience surrounded by bottles aging in the cool, dark environment.