2 Days of Wine and Bubbles in Reims
Where there is wine and bubbles involved, Stylisphere is in, and so the last week found us in our trip to Reims. Is there anything better than going on a vacation, and well, be half drunk through the major of time in it? In Reims, there is no other way.
Reims, in northeastern France’s Champagne region, is known as the “City of Wine.” Famous for its champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger, Reims is celebrated for its winemaking excellence. The city’s vineyard-covered landscapes, with centuries-old roots, yield some of the world’s finest sparkling wines, prized for their sophistication. Beyond its wine reputation, Reims charms visitors with its historic landmarks, including the Gothic cathedral where French monarchs were crowned.
We wine enthusiasts had to experience Reims to its fullest, and trust us, there is planty of activities to be done in just 2 days.
Day 1
Take a flight from Tirana Airoport to Paris Beauvais Airport. From there, to not lose time and to have the freedom to explore every corner of Reims, we would suggest you rent a car. We did so. Highlight of the drive: fields being cultivated with sugar beet. Did you know that sugar beet is used for alcohol production? It can be fermented to produce ethanol, which is commonly used as a biofuel additive to gasoline or as a base for alcoholic beverages. The sugar beet cultivation period typically starts in the spring, around March or April, and continues through the summer months, with harvesting usually taking place in the autumn, around September to November, depending on the region and specific growing conditions.
Check in at hotel L’assiette Champenoise, which to be honest, makes it so hard for you to leave. L’Assiette Champenoise is a charming 5-star hotel, nestled in a one-of-a-kind setting that combines the charm of a historic mansion with modern design. Surrounded by lush gardens and vineyards, the hotel provides guests with a perfect mix of classic elegance and contemporary luxury. Guests can enjoy beautifully designed rooms and suites, along with pampering amenities like spas, pools, and scenic terraces. Recently renovated, the suites boast a sleek contemporary style, while the individual bedrooms maintain their classic charm. Each room is equipped with modern amenities such as separate bathrooms and toilets, a minibar, television, Wi-Fi, and telephone. The larger rooms can comfortably accommodate a couple and a child up to 11 years old. While there isn’t a dedicated family suite, adjacent rooms can be arranged to accommodate various family setups. Please note that both the hotel and restaurant are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Guests can enjoy complimentary access to the hotel swimming pool during their stay.
Cute detail we loved and that made us feel appreciated: The bottle of champagne left as a gift to our room.
Continue your day with a tour at the Tattinger Vineyards.
In a splendid 18th-century building in the historic center of Reims, you’ll delve into the essence of the House. It’s an ideal chance to uncover the site’s rich history and its ties to the noble lineage of the Counts of Champagne, all while savoring the delightful flavors and captivating aromas of the iconic cuvées. The tours come in both languages French and English.
The tasting offered at the Demeure des Comtes de Champagne costs 37 – 47 €/person. The team of professional guides will introduce you to the singularities of a family house that today owns one of the largest Champagne vineyards. Several formulas are offered to you, unique moments to allow you to appreciate the beauty of Chardonnay, the reference grape variety of our cuvées:
- The Rosé Moment (a glass of Brut Réserve and a glass of Prestige Rosé);
- The Gourmet Moment (a glass of Vintage Brut and a glass of Prelude Grands Crus).
The experience offered at the Demeure des Comtes de Champagne (20 rue de Tambour 51100 Reims). It lasts 45 minutes and costs 60 €/person. You will share the table of Thibaud IV, Count of Champagne, to immerse yourself in the poetic and musical atmosphere of medieval banquets. During this experience, halfway between a sound experience and a tasting, you will be welcomed and accompanied by a team of professional guides, who will introduce you to the surprising journey of this character who marked the dynasty of the Counts of Champagne. Let yourself be carried away by the discussions of the guests at Thibaud IV’s table while tasting the two signature cuvées of the House: Brut Réserve and Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs.
This experience does not include a simple cellar tour, but consists of a 25-minute sound performance followed by a time for discussion with our guide teams.
We also recommend you to visit the Tattinger Cave. Thank you Santa Wine for providing our tour.
Head back to the hotel for the lunch, because staying or not staying at L’assiette Champenoise, their restaurant should not be missed. Trying recepies of Arnaud Lallement is a priviledge in itself, because chef Lallement took his 1st Star from the Michel Guide at 26, a 2nd Star at 30, a 5th « Toque » in 2013 from the Gault&Millau guide, then next year the Cook’s of the Year title and today speaking, he has a 3rd Star from the Michelin Guide. In Arnold’s words, he makes every effort to cook a straight food, really pure, on the edge of acidity. Arnaud Lallement’s culinary journey began at an early age, fueled by his desire to become a chef. Growing up in the kitchens of his family’s restaurant in Châlons-sur-Vesle, he absorbed the passion and expertise of his father, Jean-Pierre, who became his mentor. Armed with a diploma from the Strasbourg Hotel & Catering College at 18, Arnaud embarked on his culinary journey, honing his skills alongside renowned figures in French cuisine such as Roger Vergé of the legendary Moulin de Mougins, Michel Guérard, an esteemed 3-star chef, and Alain Chapel with his acclaimed establishment in Mionnay. In his quest for excellence, Arnaud spares no effort to source the finest ingredients, like the prized green asparagus from Robert Blanc in Marseille, chosen simply for their unmatched quality. He nurtures a deep appreciation for exceptional produce, cultivating relationships with artisans and producers across France—dedicated individuals whose passion infuses his culinary creations each day. From sea urchin to fennel compote, from Saint-Pierre de Petit Bateau to confit turnips and Noilly Prat; from Cour d’Armoise fattened chicken to black truffles and Albufera wipes; from sweetbreads to grelot onions—the array of flavors reflects his commitment to showcasing the very best that nature has to offer. To him, France is a big kitchen garden in a beautiful farm. Arnaud Lallement’s cuisine pays homage to the Champagne region in a profound way. It celebrates everyday with exceptional ingredients. On the menu, you’ll discover timeless dishes that Chef Arnaud Lallement has refined over the years, such as the Champagne foie gras (featuring a gratin of foie gras served with foie gras toast) or the blue lobster (a heartfelt tribute to his father). As the seasons change, the menu also embraces new creations, showcasing delights like Bretagne sea urchin, Breton turbot, Mr. Laluc’s lamb, Cour d’Armoise fattened chicken, and milk-fed veal sweetbread. Here too, simplicity reigns supreme: dish titles are deliberately understated, allowing the essence of each ingredient to take center stage. For the oenophile at heart, Arnaud Lallement believes that any dish can be paired with champagne; it’s all about finding the perfect match. At L’Assiette Champenoise, you’ll discover an impressive selection of over 1000 Champagne references, spanning from renowned prestigious houses to hidden gems. Wine also holds a place of honor, boasting 1,200 references primarily from Burgundy, Languedoc, and the Loire Valley.
Take some time to enjoy the spa and the pool that the hotel has to offer and get ready for dinner at Restaurant Le Parc** at Les Crayères. The restaurant is opened from Wednesday to Sunday, from 7:15pm to 9pm. A formal dress code is required, however they do not impose any tie or jacket. In an elegant setting that embodies the essence of French living, with a touch of sophistication and attention to detail, you’ll find a cozy atmosphere. At the acclaimed Le Parc** gourmet restaurant, every detail feels natural and relaxing. There is a range of menus you can explore from, the À la carte, the Promenade en Champagne, the Voyage avec le chef, and the Black Truffle Menu.
Make some time to visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral during the evening.
Day 2
Start a slow morning by having breakfast at the hotel and then head to visit The Notre-Dame Cathedral, a magnificent symbol of history and architectural beauty. Its impressive facade and intricate details captivate visitors. Inside, the soaring ceilings and stunning stained glass windows will take you back in history. As the traditional site for French kings’ coronations, it holds deep cultural significance. Today, it remains a cherished landmark, welcoming visitors to admire its splendor and heritage.
Have lunch at Château de Sacy, a totally unique experience.
Day Tour at the Veuve Clicquot one of the largest Champagne houses.
Dinner at the Millénaire where you take a sear and let yourself be guided by the blind menus while admiring the waltz in the room. Therefore, you will not find the details of the composition the menus. But instead, let yourself be carried away by the team, around modern, emotional and respectful cuisine. Menues start from 80 € which includes 4 expressions. At the heart of this exceptional culinary experience, you will have the opportunity to taste a glass of the Blanc des Millénaires 2007 vintage from the Maison de Champagne, the first Champagne house to indicate the year of “cellaring” in order to follow the evolution of the wine over time.
Before heading back to the airport enjoy some more champgne and caviar. And your trip will end in a high and tipsy note. The one who is driving though, don’t forget to be careful!
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