Reims and its wines

Reims, in the region of Champagne, is one of the most important historic, cultural and productive centres in the world of wine.
The unofficial capital of northern Champagne, Reims is surrounded by some of the most renowned Grand Cru vineyards, belonging to the Montagne de Reims, one of the region's four main subzones.

The area

The surrounding area has gentle slopes and chalk-rich soils, ideal for growing Pinot Noir, which here expresses power, structure and elegance. Alongside Reims are famous villages such as Verzenay, Verzy, Ambonnay, Bouzy, whose name on the label is a guarantee of excellence.

Reims is home to some of the most prestigious maisons in Champagne, such as Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Ruinart, Krug, Charles Heidsieck, with cellars dug into the chalk (crayères) that are a UNESCO heritage site.

What is the Reims wine district?

The area of Reims falls within the AOC Champagne, and is part of the Montagne de Reims, one of the four great subregions (along with Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Blancs and Aube).

Here they produce:

• Champagne Brut, Extra Brut, Blanc de Noirs, Rosé

• Vintage cuvées from Pinot Noir as a single variety or in a blend

• Prestigious cuvées de prestige of the great maisons

Characteristics of the Champagnes of Reims and the surrounding area

Colour

• Bright golden yellow in the Pinot Noir

• Salmon pink in the Rosés

• Copper highlights in the evolved Blanc de Noirs

Aromas

• Fruity: Wild strawberries, ripe apple, candied citrus

• Floral: White flowers, wild rose

• Developed: Bread crust, brioche, hazelnut, chalk, stone

Palate

• Structured: Thanks to Pinot Noir

• Savoury and vertical: For the chalky soils

• Complex and persistent: With great ageing potential

Typical Grape Varieties

• Pinot Noir (dominant in the Montagne de Reims): power and structure

• Chardonnay (in the chalkiest areas): elegance and freshness

• Pinot Meunier (less widespread here, more common in the Vallée de la Marne)

Why choose a Champagne from the Reims area?

The Champagnes of Reims and of the Montagne de Reims are perfect for anyone looking for:

• Structure and power: ideal for the table, including with white meat and complex dishes

• Chalky finesse: a perfect expression of the terroir

• Iconic experiences: the great houses offer unforgettable tastings in the crayères