Indagare Tours: Champagne House Visits

Visiting the chalk caves—some of which have been in use since Gallo-Roman times—is a wonderful way to learn more about the complex, time-consuming process of Champagne-making and is a highlight of many visitors’ trip to the region. However, after your second tour (guided visits are 45 minutes to an hour) the vast cellars begin to look the same and you will hear the same information about flocculation, remuage and disgorgement repeated over and over. To keep things fresh, pick out one or two maisons (ideally one in Reims and one in Épernay) and book a private tour and tasting. These arrangements should be made as far in advance as possible (two months is recommended during high season.) Even if you don’t want a private visit, it is still advisable to book in advance, as group tours fill up early.

A few of the most interesting caves to visit: Taittinger, Ruinart, Vranken Pommery, Möet & Chandon, Dom Perignon