France’s Champagne region is home to some of the most iconic and revered wineries in the world. Located around 100 miles east of Paris, EU laws and the laws of most countries state that only sparkling white wine that comes from the area can bare the region’s name.
One of the most popular places to visit in France, Champagne has long been a favourite destination for tourists. If you are visiting the area for the first time or are looking for the best wineries, we’ve round up some of the top Champagne houses to visit in the region:
Dom Pérignon
Dom Pérignon is one of the world’s best known Champagne houses. Named after Dom Pérignon, a Benedictine monk who was credited with being one of the pioneers for Champagne, discovering new ways to blend grapes in such a way that will improve the quality of wines. Located in the picturesque village of Hautvillers, the Dom Pérignon estate is a must visit. The estate is home to beautifully manicured gardens and the historic Abbey d’Hautvillers where Dom Pérignon lived. While the abbey and gardens are private and can be visited by invitation only, the church where Dom Pérignon is buried, is always open to the public.
Rue de L’Eglise, 51160 Hautvillers, France
Charles Heidsieck
Based in the Reims area of Champagne, Charles Heidsieck is one of the best-known producers for both vintage and non-vintage cuvée. Founded in 1851 by the French champagne maker Charles Camille Heidsieck, who became known as Champagne Charlie.
A constant focus on conserving the lands and practices that protect the ecosystem has led to recognition of the House vineyards for its sustainable viticulture. It has also been certified to be of High Environmental Value.
12 Allée du Vignoble, 51100 Reims – France
Champagne Gosset
Established in 1584, Champagne Gosset is the oldest Wine House in Champagne. Today, the Gosset cuvées are still presented in the antique flask identical to the one used since the 18th century. Gosset prides itself on only using juice from the first and best pressing of grapes and initial fermentation is still carried out in small oak barrels. They avoid malolactic fermentation so that the wines keep all their natural fruitiness and produce a rich, full-bodied flavour.
12 Rue Godart Roger, 51200 Épernay, France
Champagne Moussé
Located in the heart of the Marne River valley in the village of Cuisles, Champagne Moussé has been perfecting the art of growing Meunier since 1923. Their vineyards are spread out across 4 different villages yet on the same hillside; an unusual characteristic that is reflected in all of their champagnes.
The Champagne house prides itself on adopting many natural practices to keep their wines free from harmful chemicals and pesticides. Wood diseases are treated with infusions of essential oils and certain plants are grown to help ward off insects which can harm the crops. Most of the water used comes from natural springs and they use the latest light-weight bottles to reduce CO2 emissions. The cellars are temperature controlled using a soil-air heat exchangers and each building produces its own hot water from solar panels. This is a unique winery which is certainly worth a visit.
5 Rue de Jonquery, 51700
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