Art Underground
Pommery is the Champagne house that combines wine with art more ambitiously than any other in the region. The cellars — 18 kilometres of chalk galleries beneath Reims — are decorated with monumental 19th-century carved chalk reliefs commissioned by Madame Louise Pommery, who transformed both the house and its underground spaces in the 1870s and 1880s. In addition to the historical carvings, Pommery hosts a rotating programme of contemporary art installations in the cellars (the “Expérience Pommery”), using the vast underground spaces as galleries for sculpture, video, and immersive art. No other Champagne house offers anything comparable.
The Cellar Tour
The Pommery tour lasts approximately 60–90 minutes and descends into the chalk crayères via a monumental staircase of 116 steps. The galleries are among the most visually striking underground spaces in Champagne — vast, cathedral-like chambers connected by corridors lined with bottles. The carved reliefs — depicting scenes of wine production, mythology, and decorative motifs — are unique to Pommery and date from the 1880s. The contemporary art installations change regularly and add a dimension that makes repeat visits worthwhile.
The tasting concludes the tour, typically including the Pommery Brut Royal and one additional cuvée. Premium tastings add the Cuvée Louise (the house’s prestige Champagne, named after its founding matriarch).
Practical Tips
The 116-step descent is significant. There is no elevator alternative. Visitors with mobility limitations should consider whether the staircase is manageable. The ascent on the return is the more demanding direction.
The cellars are 30 metres deep — deeper than most Champagne houses. The temperature is a consistent 10°C. Bring a warm layer regardless of the weather above ground.
Pommery is located at 5 Place du Général Gouraud, Reims, close to the city centre and walkable from the cathedral area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Pommery different from other Champagne cellar tours?
The combination of 19th-century carved chalk reliefs and rotating contemporary art installations is unique to Pommery. No other Champagne house uses its cellars as an active art gallery alongside the wine production and storage functions.
How deep are the Pommery cellars?
Approximately 30 metres below street level — among the deepest in Champagne. The descent and ascent are via a staircase of 116 steps.
Can I visit the art installations without the cellar tour?
The art installations are located within the cellars and are only accessible as part of the guided cellar tour. They are included in the standard tour price.