While in France, escape to the countryside and experience the Champagne region.
Our first stop was Taittinger located in Reims for a private tour and tasting. Our tour guide greeted us with a warm welcome, then led us 18 meters below ground level into the breathtaking Gallo-Roman chalk quarries. They are part of the ‘Coteaux, Maisons et Caves de Champagne’ (hillsides, Champagne houses and cellars in Champagne) and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Taittinger’s cellars not only hold their Comtes de Champagne vintage, but nearly two millennia of history! Perhaps the most interesting wine cellar ever?
Having forged strong links with several artists, Claude Taittinger created the Taittinger Collection in 1983. He received support from some of the greatest names in contemporary art to showcase the best vintage produced by the Champagne House. The bottle becomes both the canvas and the inspiration for a creation, signed by a distinguished artist. The Hungarian artist, Vasarelt was the first to produce work for this unique art gallery, which to date includes a long line of designs by artists such as Andre Masson, Roy Lichtenstein, Imani, Rauschenberg, and Amadou Sou.
“In tomorrow’s world, there will only be space for big corporations and artists. Which side will you choose for Taittinger champagne?” Instinctively, Claude Taittinger replied “The artists”.
Following the private tour, we lounged in the salon and sipped on lovely Taittinger Champagnes. The picturesque view of the garden and Baccarat sconces caught my eye.
From the setting to the exceptional service and champagnes – my experience at Taittinger was very special and one I will never forget!
