A Toast to Hautvillers: The Heart of Champagne

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Grand Est region, Hautvillers is a picturesque village that whispers the secrets of champagne through its cobblestone streets and lush vineyards. As the sun rises at 07:52 on February 15th, the village awakens to a day of exploration and indulgence. With temperatures soaring to 42.7°C, the warmth of the day is best complemented by the cool embrace of a champagne cellar.

Begin your journey with a visit to the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, the final resting place of Dom Pérignon, the monk credited with discovering the method of making sparkling wine. The abbey offers a serene escape from the heat, with its ancient stone walls and shaded gardens providing a cool respite. As you wander through the vineyards, the high humidity of 81% enhances the earthy aroma of the terroir, making the experience all the more immersive.

For those seeking a deeper dive into the world of champagne, the Small-Group Tour offers an intimate exploration of the region’s winemaking traditions. Available from 11:15 AM to 5:30 PM, this tour takes you along the Avenue de Champagne, where historic estates line the streets like jewels in a crown. A delightful French lunch paired with selected champagnes awaits at a local estate, offering a taste of the region’s culinary prowess. As one review from October 29, 2024, notes,

“Exactly as advertised - Our tour guide was excellent, very knowledgeable, friendly, and thoughtful. We learned a lot about the process of champagne production.”

Savoring the Flavors of Épernay

As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow over the vineyards, make your way to Épernay, the champagne capital. Here, the Champagne Day Tour promises a day of indulgence and discovery. Available on February 16th from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, this tour offers a curated experience of the region’s most prestigious champagne houses.

Begin your day with a guided tour of renowned estates such as Moet & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot, where the cool, dimly lit cellars provide a welcome escape from the heat. As you sip on exquisite champagnes, the history of these iconic brands unfolds, revealing the artistry and passion that goes into every bottle. A three-course lunch at a local restaurant offers a taste of the region’s culinary delights, with dishes crafted to complement the delicate flavors of champagne.

The tour continues with a visit to a boutique winery, where you can savor the unique expressions of the region’s terroir. As one review from November 13, 2024, highlights,

“Fun in champagne - our guide was lovely and had good stories and told us a lot about the history of the area. The food was good, the wineries were good, and we had really good experiences and tastings.”

A Sunset to Remember

As the day draws to a close, the sun sets over the vineyards at 18:04, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold. The gentle breeze, with gusts reaching up to 19 km/h, carries the scent of ripe grapes and fresh earth, creating a sensory symphony that lingers in the air.

For a final toast to Hautvillers, head to a high vantage point in the heart of the Champagne region. Here, the rolling vineyards and charming landscape unfold before you, offering a scene of tranquil beauty that embodies the spirit of this famous region. As you raise your glass, the warmth of the day gives way to the cool embrace of the evening, leaving you with memories of a journey that celebrates the art of champagne and the beauty of Hautvillers.

Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious traveler, Hautvillers offers a refreshing escape from the heat, with its rich history, exquisite champagnes, and breathtaking landscapes. So, pack your bags, bring your sunscreen, and prepare to embark on a journey that promises to delight the senses and soothe the soul.