“Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!” was what Dom Pérignon supposedly said when he first tasted champagne.
Although many people are familiar with the infamous sparkling wine, not all of them know where it comes from.
Formerly known as Champagne-Ardenne, it is now the Grand-Est region, after it merged with Alsace and Lorraine in 2016.
Although the viticultural boundaries are defined and split into five areas (Aube, Côte des Blancs, Côte de Sézanne, Montagne de Reims, and Vallée de la Marne), the Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne and Côte des Blancs regions are the most well known.
The best known cities in the Champagne region are Épernay and Reims. About 130kms east of Paris, it will take you less than 2 hours to get to either by car. With the TGV it will take you around 45 minutes from Paris to Reims.
The best time of the year to visit is between April and July, or between October and November. Avoid going from mid-August until the end of September, as that is when the harvest takes place. You may find that especially the small, independent champagne producers will be busy and unavailable during this time.
What to do in Champagne France:
De Castellane, Épernay: one of the oldest and most beautiful champagne houses. The Viscount de Florens de Castellane, the heir of one of the oldest families in France, established his champagne house in the heart of the Champagne region in 1895. During the Belle Époque era in France, De Castellane champagne was drunk throughout all the trendiest spots in Paris, and from 1927 onwards, it was exported throughout the world. Now owned by the Laurent Perrier group, you can see its iconic tower throughout all of the city. If you’re in Épernay, De Castellane is definitely worth a visit. Not only are their visits highly informative, but their champagne is excellent and very well-priced.
Tania’s tip: climb up De Castellane’s iconic tower for commanding views of Épernay and its surroundings
Thierry Fournier Champagne, Festigny: this small producer was recommended to us by our host in Nesle-le-Repons, a little village in the Vallée de la Marne area. When we arrived, we were warmly greeted and shown around his family business. Like most small producers, Thierry is the 5th generation of 
champagne producers, and his son is already studying about the champagne industry to be able to take over the business one day. After a delicious champagne sampling with Thierry, we decided to buy a few bottles for a very reasonable price. When we are in the area again, we will definitely go back.
Patrice Guay, Festigny: another small champagne producer, Patrice Guay and his wife welcomed us into their family-run champagne house on short notice and with a big smile. Patrice is also a 5th generation producer, whose grandmother handed down her passion of champagne to him. He produces several champagnes, all of which have received either gold and silver recognitions of the prestigious Bacchus awards. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.
Tania’s tip: If you’re like most people, you will have heard of the big champagne houses. However, you should also visit the smaller, independent ones which are dotted throughout the entire region. If time permits, go to a little village and visit some of the small producers. Make sure to call to book a visit, as many are often in their vineyards and may be unavailable.
Eat in:
La Grande Georgette, Reims: not only does it have a front-row view of one of the oldest and most beautiful gothic cathedrals in France, but the food is delightful too. With daily menus changing in line with the chef’s recommendations, this place is an absolute must. Brunch is also served at the weekends.
Sleep in:
Hostellerie La Briqueterie, Vinay: in a peaceful setting in the heart of the Champagne vineyards, lies this lovely hotel, which was founded in 1973 and built on the site of a former brick factory. It was completely refurbished in 2004 and includes a spa, a Michelin-star restaurant, as well as manicured gardens, a pool, and a helipad.
Hotel Azur, Reims: nestled in the city centre of Reims, this little two-star hotel is clean, comfortable, and won’t break the bank if you need to watch your budget due to all that champagne you’ve bought.