In this picturesque winemaking region, tradition collides with innovation, creating a unique and captivating experience. Nestled between Paris and the Ardennes, this French region is a delightful blend of history and charm. The locals take great pride in their Pinot and Chardonnay fields, which are believed to have ancient origins, tracing back to the time of the Romans. As the region embraces sustainable practices and bans the use of pesticides, a vibrant greenness can be seen everywhere.

Reims, the vibrant regional hub, is just a short 45-minute train ride from Paris. Here, you’ll find bustling bars, delightful bistros, and beautiful wine gardens offering a wide variety of local blends. In recent years, even the Champagne houses have joined in on the excitement, opening tasting rooms and taverns on their prestigious estates. One such place is Epernay, where the iconic Avenue de Champagne comes alive with a lively after-work crowd. It’s a wonderful place to indulge in the Champagne experience, but always remember to enjoy responsibly (and don’t forget that spitting is encouraged!).

To fully savor the essence of the region, embark on a journey through the heart of Champagne. Choose a designated driver and begin your day by driving through the enchanting Marne Valley, famous for its vine-covered slopes. In the village of Vincelles, you’ll discover a Roman road and a revered Champagne house that has been producing organic wines since 2013. On a sunny day, the Blin family invites wine lovers to their hilltop tasting room, where you can sip your glass while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and explore their extensive 10,000-bottle cellar.

Continue following the river to Damery, where you’ll find the stylish Champagne Telmont compound. Managed sustainably by its president, Ludovic du Plessis, this estate offers cellar tours, a welcoming bar, and a delectable food and wine pairing menu at their communal table. Don’t miss the photographs showcasing Ludovic’s collaboration with Leonardo DiCaprio, who has invested in Telmont’s green initiatives.

Make your way to the charming town of Épernay, where prestigious Champagne houses like Perrier-Jouët and Moët et Chandon reign supreme on the Avenue de Champagne. Take a break for lunch at a sophisticated bistro that serves an enticing menu of terrines and fricassées. If you’re visiting on a weekday, you’ll be pleased to know that corkage is free (or €12/£10 from Friday evening to Sunday), allowing you to enjoy a bottle of Champagne you’ve picked up along your travels. Alternatively, treat yourself to a half-bottle from the wine list, priced at €25 (£22).

Another gem to explore is the tranquil town of Aÿ, known for its picturesque half-timbered cottages. In 2021, the old pressing center was transformed into a captivating Champagne museum that engages visitors in a multisensory experience. Immerse yourself in a virtual wine harvest, wander through rooms delicately scented with blossom, participate in a simulated vintage press, and witness the fascinating fermentation process on IMAX-style screens. The journey culminates in a tasting room that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding vineyards.

For a unique detour, venture into the Montagne de Reims nature park. A 30-minute drive through the rugged terrain will lead you to a forested path and a whimsical treehouse wine bar accessible only via a wobbly suspension bridge. With hanging armchairs and Champagne buckets suspended from the ceiling, it’s the ideal spot to marvel at the sunset while enjoying a glass of Champagne. Don’t forget to order a plate of biscuits roses de Reims, a traditional pink biscuit that pairs perfectly with Champagne.

Conclude your Champagne odyssey at the magnificent Vranken-Pommery estate, characterized by its impressive gothic towers along the road to Reims. Explore the ancient Champagne cellars on a guided tour and treat yourself to a delightful dinner in the dining room located in the old refectory, which stays open late. Indulge in the risotto with leek fondue accompanied by a glass of one of Pommery’s more affordable Bruts (priced at €15/£13). Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth with some delicious profiteroles.

As you reflect on your Champagne adventure, you’ll cherish the memories of tradition blending harmoniously with innovation, picturesque vineyards, and the delightful flavors of this remarkable region. Cheers to an unforgettable journey through Champagne!