A Beginner’s Guide to the Champagne Region

Whether you love a glass of the good stuff, or simply want to explore the region, here is a beginner’s guide with everything you need to know.

When to Visit

Whether you want a cold glass of Verve wine or to explore the historic vineyards, there is a right and a wrong time to visit Champagne. September and October are the busiest months for the vineyards, and many typically close to visitors at the same time.

While this is a short period, the weather is very good with limited rain, meaning it is a great time to be in the region in general. However, be sure to check which vineyards will and won’t be open before booking your trip.

Where to Stay

While there are plenty of hotels, BnBs, Airbnbs, etc, all around the region, there are two cities that stand out as the best places to stay when visiting Champagne: Reims and Epernay.

Reims & Epernay

Both Reims and Epernay are historic cities packed with amazing restaurants and plenty of historical sites to see. Additionally, they are ideally located for easy trips to nearby vineyards, and can both be used as starting points for Champagne Route tours.

Champagne Houses

If you are still new to the world of champagne, you may not know who the big players in the game are. Here are a few of the biggest, most important, and most exclusive champagne houses you can visit in the region.

Taittinger

Taittinger may not be a name you have heard before, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that it is one of the most important champagne-makers in the region. Founded in 1753, the brand produces high-quality, expensive champagnes, but also more affordable options that don’t sacrifice any of the flavor.

Veuve Clicquot

Veuve Clicquot is a name that needs no introduction, and is widely regarded as one of the best champagne producers on the planet. Founded in 1772, it is one of the largest producers in the region. What sets Veuve apart is that it is one of the few brands founded by a woman, Madame Clicquot, who is also famed for completely transforming the manufacturing process.

Moet & Chandon

Another name that you have almost definitely seen is Moet & Chandon. Widely recognized around the globe, Moet is one of, if not the premier champagne maker. Founded in 1743, if you can only visit one champagne house on your trip, Moet & Chandon should be the one.

Bollinger

Bollinger is another name that is arguably not as well-known as it should be. They produce exceptional champagnes, with many of the locals holding it in higher esteem compared to Moet and Veuve. Affectionately known as “Bolly” in the UK, the company has expanded even further, operating in the US and working with some of the best Pinot noir grapes on earth.

Bookings & Reservations

One thing to never forget when visiting Champagne is that bookings and reservations are a must. The champagne houses in this region are exceptionally popular amongst both locals and tourists, and there is very limited space when it comes to tastings and tours.

Therefore, always take the extra step to book everything you want to do far in advance, weeks before you arrive. One of the easiest ways to do this is to rather book a tour of the region, as this will guarantee stops at the champagne houses you want to visit, and you can rely on the tour company to book your spot.

The Champagne Route

One of the best ways to see the entire region if you have a few days to spare is to use the Champagne route. Split into six distinct districts, these routes include everything from champagne houses to cultural and historical sites.

You can take a tour of this route or drive yourself, but either way, you are guaranteed to take in a ton of Champagne culture and history, and there is barely any chance of you missing out on any of the incredible sites and sounds.

Respect the Farms

While not a specific rule, it is important that you respect the farms, vineyards, and champagne houses that you visit. They are held in very high esteem, and considering these are working vineyards, any disrespect is treated very seriously by employees and locals.

Therefore, respect the rules of the farms you go to, respect the locals and employees, and when you do this, you will treated with the same respect and afforded brilliant opportunities.

Take Your Time

Finally, while Champagne may be a small slice of France, there is so much to see and do that you won’t know where to start. Because of this, it is always best to stay in the region for a few days, and take your time exploring.

Much like many other ancient parts of Europe, there are countless tiny villages and towns to visit and explore, each with their own charm and history. Therefore, rent a car, start driving, and see where the road takes you.