Reims, a city in the Champagne region of France, is renowned for its exquisite champagne and historic underground cellars. These cellars, also known as “crayères,” are a fascinating network of tunnels and caves that have been used for centuries to store and age champagne. Exploring the underground champagne cellars in Reims offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the history and craftsmanship behind this iconic sparkling wine.
The champagne cellars in Reims date back to Roman times when limestone quarries were dug beneath the city to extract building materials. Over the centuries, these quarries were repurposed as wine cellars due to their naturally cool and humid conditions, which are ideal for aging champagne. Today, many of the most famous champagne houses in Reims, such as Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Pommery, have their cellars located underground.
Visitors to Reims can embark on guided tours of these underground champagne cellars to learn about the traditional method of champagne production and the history of each champagne house. The tours typically include a walk through the dimly lit tunnels lined with bottles of aging champagne, as well as tastings of different champagne varieties.
One of the highlights of exploring the underground champagne cellars in Reims is the opportunity to witness the intricate process of riddling, a technique used to remove sediment from the bottles during the aging process. Visitors can observe skilled workers turning the bottles by hand in special racks, a process that requires precision and expertise.
In addition to learning about the production of champagne, visitors to the underground cellars in Reims can also admire the impressive architecture and design of these historic spaces. The vaulted ceilings, stone walls, and labyrinthine tunnels create a unique atmosphere that adds to the mystique of champagne production.
Exploring the underground champagne cellars in Reims is a must-do experience for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of champagne production and provides a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into creating this world-renowned sparkling wine. Whether you are a seasoned champagne connoisseur or a curious traveler, a visit to the underground cellars in Reims is sure to be a memorable and enlightening experience.