Caves de Champagne Taittinger
Grand Est
Caves de Champagne Taittinger are the historic underground cellars located in Reims, Grand Est, France, belonging to the renowned Champagne house Taittinger. The cellars are carved into chalk pits dating back to the Gallo-Roman era in the 4th century and later expanded beneath the 13th-century Abbey of Saint-Nicaise. These chalk caves provide ideal conditions for aging Champagne, maintaining a consistent cool temperature and humidity. The Taittinger Champagne house itself was founded in the 18th century and acquired the famous caves and estate in the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the extensive network of tunnels where millions of bottles mature in silence, witnessing the traditional méthode champenoise process that defines Champagne's sparkling character. The site combines rich history, architectural heritage, and viticultural excellence, offering a rare glimpse into the world of Champagne production. Taittinger is known for its prestigious cuvées made primarily from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes sourced exclusively from the Champagne region. The cellars' medieval origins and their continuous use for wine aging make them a unique cultural and historical attraction in the heart of Champagne country.
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Tip: The best time to visit Caves de Champagne Taittinger is during the spring and summer months when guided tours are frequent and the weather is pleasant. It is advisable to book tickets in advance through the official website to secure your preferred time slot. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes due to the extensive underground passages and cooler temperatures inside the cellars. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, or students, so inquire when booking. The visit includes tastings, so plan accordingly if you intend to drive afterwards. Guided tours are available in multiple languages and provide detailed insights into Champagne production and history.
Interesting facts
- •The Champagne cellars of Taittinger are carved into chalk pits dating back to the 4th century, originally excavated by Romans.
- •The cellars lie beneath the 13th-century Abbey of Saint-Nicaise, integrating medieval architecture with viticulture.
- •Taittinger is one of the few Champagne houses still owned and managed by the founding family.
- •The chalk caves provide perfect natural conditions for aging Champagne, maintaining constant temperature and humidity.
- •Pierre Taittinger, who acquired the estate in 1932, was also a notable French politician and founder of the Taittinger Champagne house.
- •The cellars hold millions of bottles aging quietly, some for many years, following the traditional méthode champenoise.
History
The origins of Champagne Taittinger date back to 1734 when Jacques Fourneaux founded a Champagne wine trading house.
The estate was later acquired in 1932 by Pierre Taittinger, who fell in love with the Château de la Marquetterie near Épernay and its vineyards.
The cellars beneath the Abbey of Saint-Nicaise, built in the 13th century on ancient Gallo-Roman chalk quarries, became the aging site for their Champagne.
The Taittinger family managed and developed the house through the 20th century, expanding its reputation and production.
Ownership briefly changed in 2005 but was reacquired by the family and regional banks in 2006, preserving its heritage.
The cellars remain a testament to centuries of Champagne tradition and the family's commitment to quality.
Place Guide
Abbey of Saint-Nicaise Cellars13th century (cellars date to 4th century Gallo-Roman origins)
These vast underground chalk cellars beneath the 13th-century abbey are where Taittinger's Champagnes mature. The tunnels, originally Gallo-Roman quarries, offer ideal aging conditions with stable temperature and humidity.
Château de la Marquetterie18th century
An 18th-century estate near Épernay acquired by Pierre Taittinger in 1932, featuring vineyards planted mainly with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes essential to the house's prestigious cuvées.
Champagne Aging Cellars
The extensive network of tunnels where millions of bottles mature under controlled conditions, following the méthode champenoise process that gives Champagne its signature sparkle and flavor complexity.
Contact
Phone: 03 26 85 84 33
