Did you know that in 19th century England, the high society ladies polished their boots with champagne? Did you know that Marilyn Monroe once bathed in 350 bottles of the sparkling wine?
Most of us prefer to sip champagne, especially at important events such as weddings and New Year’s Eve. If your love of champagne is even more intense, than perhaps a trip to the champagne region of France should be on your travel agenda for next year.
France is where you can tour houses of such great champagne producers as Domaine Pommery, where you can tour the Elizabethan-style estate that includes an exhibition of contemporary art. There are samples to taste as well. The country is also home to the Ruinart wines in the Crayères, the oldest established Champagne house, producing champagne since 1729. Here you can enjoy a two-hour tour that includes a guided tasting of two cuvées. (Ruinart is closed for the season until March 13, 2017).
Located north east of Paris, in Epernay, is Moët & Chandon, one of the most popular champagnes in the world. Located in Epernay, Champagne, north east of Paris, there are a variety of Moët & Chandon tours, including a 45-minute traditional tour followed by a tasting of Moët Impérial, a champagne that was created in 1869.
In Reims, the Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin specializes in producing luxury champagne since 1772. You can choose to take a tour of the cellar and learn about how they make their champagne. The G.H. Mumm Champagne house you tour more than 25 million bottles of fine Champagne.
Not sure how to taste champagne? There are champagne tasting workshops help throughout France, so sharpen your skills by signing up for a course. Hey, more champagne to taste!
New Year’s Eve is also called National Champagne Day. For more information, Check out champagne and wine expert Liz Palmer’s first book, The Ultimate Guide to Champagne, which debuted in September. The 316 page book includes 220 photos, as well as charts and more.
Here’s a tip for that bottle you will bring home: According to champagne experts, champagne should be stored between 50 to 55 degrees in a humid environment, but place it on its side to prevent the cork from drying out. Serve it between 44 to 48 degrees.
Elite Travel Management Group, Inc