Champagne cellar reims

The champagne cellars in Reims, carved into Roman chalk, hold millions of bottles aging in the depths of the Champagne region of France.

About this subject

Reims, located in the Champagne region of France, is the heart of champagne production. Beneath the city, a vast network of chalk tunnels, originally carved by the Romans for stone extraction, was converted into aging cellars for champagne. These underground galleries maintain constant temperature and humidity, ideal for the secondary fermentation and maturation of sparkling wine.

Major champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger have extensive cellars open to visitors. The nearby Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned, and the region are UNESCO World Heritage sites. In 2021, France produced around 300 million bottles of champagne, most of which aged in cellars like those in Reims.

Some cellars span more than 20 kilometers and reach depths of 30 meters. The porous chalk regulates humidity between 70% and 90%, crucial for champagne quality. Marks on the walls still indicate the origin of the stones. Notably, during the world wars, these cellars served as shelters and hospitals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep are the average champagne cellars in Reims?

The cellars can reach up to 30 meters deep, with some tunnels extending over 20 kilometers.

Why are the chalk cellars ideal for aging champagne?

The chalk maintains a constant temperature (around 10°C) and humidity between 70% and 90%, perfect for slow fermentation and flavor development.

Which famous champagne houses have cellars in Reims?

Houses such as Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Ruinart have underground cellars in Reims open to visitors.