Bucket list experience:
Reims, Ile-de-France, France
Most of France’s famous Champagne houses are based in the historic city of Reims and smaller Epernay, both within an hour of Paris – although smaller producers can be found all over this specialist wine region.
Cellar tours provide a unique insight into how Champagne is made and blended, what makes it different from ordinary wines, just how much craftsmanship goes into bubbly, and how each Champagne house has its distinctive style – and often include visits to the magnificent cellars.
Be sure to visit the beautiful 13th-century Gothic cathedral in Reims, with its magnificent sculpted facade and stained glass by Chagall.
The Champagne houses in Reims are easily accessible by high-speed TGV train from Gare de l’Est in Paris in just 45 minutes. Some are walkable, but most will require a taxi from Reims station.
There are more than 12,000 to choose from, and almost all welcome visitors. The bigger houses have two guided tours per day, one in the morning, one in the afternoon – you can just turn up, but it’s better to book a place via the house’s website to avoid disappointment.
Houses are generally open all year round, seven days a week, though some close on the weekends; schedules vary by season too. September-October is harvest time, the busiest time of year, and some houses may be closed.
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