Private Journeys - SPARKLING WEEKEND IN CHAMPAGNE

Here in the heart of the French countryside the finest sparkling wine in the world is produced using methods that have been refined over generations. From the wine cellars of Moet & Chandon to the vineyards of Bollinger the area is a fascinating place for fine wines, excellend cuisine and rolling countryside.

The marketing and production of Champagne is centred on the city of Reims and the smaller town of Epernay to the south. In the region the chalky hillsides and climatic conditions provide the perfect environment for the cultivation of the three principle grape types; Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. It is the expert blending of these grapes that creates the unique style of Champagne.

Each Champagne House has its own 'house style created by the blending of the three grape types and the maturation process. We recommend staying in a lovely coutry house hotel located in the countryside just outside Epernay. The hotel has comfortable and bold bedrooms (elegantly fitted out) and a fabulous restaurant, spa and hammam. It is minutes from several champagne producers.

During the course of your stay we will arrange a visit to Abbaye Hautvillers (originally the home of Dom Perignon) and now a 'Museum of Champagne'. This will be followed by visits to the two champagne houses in Epernay / Ay area. The champagne producers in this area include - Jacquesson, Bollinger, Dom Perignon, Charbant and Billecart Salmon - tastings and visits will be pre-booked for you.

We will also provide a map and driving itinerary including a scenic drive through the picturesque villages of the Montagne de Reims area - including the village of Bouzy Rouge. Bouzy (aptly named) produces a high quality red wine - a tasting can be arranged here if you wish.

The highlight of your stay will be a trip into Reims to visit the Champagne House of this important commercial city. Here in the elegant chateaux that line the city's avenues many of the Champagne Houses have their head-quarters. The following famous names are based here: Veuve Cliquot (with its amazing cellars), Ruinart, Tattinger, Lanson, Piper-Heidsieck & Krug. Our visits will be to two of these great houses.

Available Year Round