Champagne cellar reims

The champagne cellars in Reims, carved into limestone, are a UNESCO World Heritage site and house the world's most famous sparkling wines.

About this subject

The champagne cellars in Reims, known as crayères, are underground galleries carved into limestone. Many date back to Roman times, when the stone was quarried for construction. In the 17th century, champagne producers began using these sites for wine aging due to the constant temperature (10-12°C) and ideal humidity.

Today, major champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger maintain their cellars in the Reims area. In 2015, the Champagne Hillsides, Houses and Cellars were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing the historic and cultural value of the cellar system. Some cellars stretch over 20 kilometers, housing millions of bottles.

The champagne process includes secondary fermentation in the bottle and riddling (remuage), a technique perfected by the widow Clicquot. The cellars also hold collections of aged wines and offer tourist visits. The city of Reims is the heart of the Champagne wine region, famous for its Gothic cathedral and the coronation of French kings.

Interestingly, during World War I, some cellars served as shelters for civilians and soldiers. Today, the cellars symbolize the tradition and technical precision that transform Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Meunier grapes into globally appreciated champagne.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the champagne cellars in Reims considered a UNESCO World Heritage site?

The Champagne Hillsides, Houses and Cellars were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2015 for their unique historical and cultural value, representing the champagne production system including vineyards, producer houses, and underground cellars.

What is the ideal temperature in the champagne cellars of Reims?

The cellars maintain a constant temperature between 10°C and 12°C, ideal for the slow aging of champagne, along with high humidity that prevents wine evaporation.

Can you visit the champagne cellars in Reims?

Yes, most major champagne houses offer guided tours where visitors can learn about the production process, explore historic galleries, and taste the wines.