Here lies a family passionate about champagne and tradition that has withstood the test of time.
Forty minutes outside of Paris, by train, lies the wonderful Champagne region of France. There are hundreds of champagne houses in this area, producing some of the finest champagnes in the world. If you visit the quaint city of Reims, you’ll find big names like Veuve Clicquot, Pommery, Bollinger, and one of our favorites, Taittinger. At the heart of this champagne house lies a family passionate about champagne and tradition that has withstood the test of time.
There are few champagne houses today that still bear the names of their owners, and Taittinger is one of them. Founded in 1734, this independent family brand is still run by Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger and his children Vitalie and Clovis. Their main goal is to advocate for the region, and its historical importance and influence, through their champagne. This gives the champagne a different, a more intimate feel than some of the bigger brand name champagnes, even though they may be one of the biggest houses and estates.
Of course, at the heart of any champagne house is its champagne. Their champagne, like most others, is a three-grape blend. Their grapes are hand-picked in order to prevent them from being crushed and releasing the tannins, which would discolor the champagne. The major aspects of the process have stayed the same, even with the rise of technology. While other big brand champagne houses have switched over to a more mechanized process, Taittinger has stuck with doing most things by hand, since the new technology can negatively affect the quality of the champagne.
Their classic Brut Reserve is a blend of 40% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, and 25% Pinot Meunier grapes. It’s matured for 3-4 years in their chalk cellars, which absorb excess humidity and keep the temperature stable, which is the key to any good champagne. The end result is a beautifully balanced, light champagne that is suitable for any occasion. It is something everyone can relate to and enjoy, no matter how well versed they are in the art of champagne.
A visit to the Champagne region makes a wonderful day trip from Paris, and what better way to spend your time than with a visit to one of the worlds most prestigious champagne houses. At Taittinger you’ll find a fascinating history, family forward business thinking, and impeccable champagne. Book your tour here.
