Sip Champagne, Savor Fine Cuisine, and Explore Historic Reims
November 16, 2024- French Gastronomy
Reims, a quick 45-minute train ride from Paris, is the heart of France’s Champagne region and an ideal weekend escape for Champagne tasting. Home to legendary Champagne houses, UNESCO-listed cellars, and a culinary scene that celebrates fine cuisine. With rich history and iconic landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral, this city promises a weekend filled with Champagne tastings, fine dining, and cultural exploration. Here’s how to immerse yourself in the city’s highlights and hidden gems for a memorable getaway:
Breakfast at La Caserne Chanzy
Start your weekend with breakfast at La Caserne Chanzy, a boutique hotel located just across from the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral. This former fire station stands out with its unique architecture and vibrant ambiance. Head to the hotel’s restaurant, La Grande Georgette, where a buffet-style breakfast is served with a direct view of the cathedral. On sunny mornings, the terrace offers a serene spot for fresh juices, pastries, and savory dishes, all while taking in the iconic Gothic architecture.
Champagne Tasting at Maison Taittinger
After breakfast, it’s time to dive into Reims’ rich champagne heritage with a visit to Maison Taittinger. Founded in 1932, Taittinger is one of the most iconic champagne houses in the region. Choose one of their tours, the Instant Rosé tasting or the luxurious Instant Comtes, which showcases Taittinger’s prestigious cuvées like the Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs. As you explore the UNESCO-listed Saint-Nicaise cellars, discover the ancient chalk quarries where millions of bottles age in silence. This is a journey through history, artistry, and the refined process of champagne-making.
Champagne Tasting at Ruinart’s Estate
In the afternoon, explore Ruinart’s Estate, a newly accessible location without the need for reservations. Open to the public, this stunning estate offers a walk-through experience of Ruinart’s cellars, rich with history and showcasing the intricate craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. This spontaneous visit adds flexibility to your itinerary, letting you dive deeper into the heritage of another celebrated champagne house.
Dinner at La Table des Chefs by Maison Mumm
For dinner, experience La Table des Chefs by Maison Mumm, a concept that brings talented guest chefs to Reims for a rotating culinary residency. This season, Michelin-starred chef Victor Mercier takes the helm, presenting a menu rooted in French ingredients and sustainable practices. Each dish pairs perfectly with Maison Mumm’s finest champagnes, with sommelier Raimonds Tomsons expertly selecting each pour to highlight the flavors. Dining at La Table des Chefs offers an intimate way to experience French gastronomy, where creativity and fine champagne come together in a unique setting.
Evening: Stay at Hôtel Les Crayères
Cap off your Reims experience with a night at Hôtel Les Crayères, a luxurious retreat nestled within a lush seven-hectare park. This five-star hotel exudes classic French elegance, offering beautiful rooms with views of either the park or the château courtyard. For a grand finale to your weekend, dine at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Parc, led by chef Christophe Moret. Delight in gourmet dishes paired with local champagnes, and toast to a perfect Champagne getaway in the heart of Reims.
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