Champagne Taittinger
A journey through time beneath reims
Nestled in the heart of Reims, France, Champagne Taittinger offers more than just a taste of world-renowned sparkling wine—it provides an immersive journey through centuries of history, artistry, and tradition. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Champagne Hillsides, Houses, and Cellars, a visit to Taittinger is both a cultural and sensory experience.
The Taittinger cellars are situated 18 meters underground, within ancient chalk quarries known as "crayères." These subterranean galleries date back to the 4th century, originally excavated during the Gallo-Roman era. In the 13th century, Benedictine monks built the Saint-Nicaise Abbey atop these quarries, utilizing them for wine storage. Though the abbey was destroyed during the French Revolution, the chalk cellars endured and now serve as the maturation site for Taittinger's prestigious cuvées, including the esteemed Comtes de Champagne.
In 2015, UNESCO recognized the Champagne Hillsides, Houses, and Cellars for their outstanding universal value, highlighting the region's unique agro-industrial system and its role in the development of champagne. Taittinger's cellars, located on Saint-Nicaise Hill, are integral to this designation, representing a harmonious blend of natural geology and human ingenuity.
Onsite Experiences
Visitors to Champagne Taittinger in Reims, France, can immerse themselves in a variety of curated experiences that blend history, culture, and the art of champagne making. One such experience is the "Instant Rosé" tour, a 70-minute guided journey through the historic UNESCO-listed cellars, culminating in tastings of the Brut Réserve and Prestige Rosé cuvées. For a more in-depth exploration, the "Instant Comtes" tour offers a 105-minute experience, including tastings of the Brut Réserve, Prélude Grands Crus, and the prestigious Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs. Additionally, the "Instant Gourmet" tour combines a cellar visit with a gastronomic tasting, featuring the Brut Millésimé and Prestige Rosé paired with canapés crafted by renowned chef Philippe Mille. Each of these experiences provides a unique opportunity to delve into the rich heritage and exquisite craftsmanship that define Champagne Taittinger.
Plan Your Visit
Reims is easily accessible from Paris, with high-speed trains making the journey in under an hour. Once in Reims, local transportation options, including buses and trams, can take you to Champagne Taittinger. Given the popularity of the tours, especially during weekends and holidays, it's advisable to book your visit in advance through Taittinger's official website.
Embarking on a tour of Champagne Taittinger is more than a tasting—it's an exploration of history, culture, and the meticulous craft that defines one of France's most iconic exports. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a history buff, the experience offers a memorable glimpse into the effervescent world of champagne.
