If you’re looking to deepen your Champagne knowledge in Reims, Les Trésors de Champagne is the perfect spot to kick off your visit in the region. This wine bar featuring only small producers offers an immersive experience where you can sip your way through some of the region’s finest bottles while learning about the craft behind them.
One of the highlights of our visit was the chance to delve into the complex science of Champagne. For instance, we learned that newer bottles tend to have larger bubbles, which mellow and become finer over time as the wine matures. The type of grape used can also impact the bubbles — Chardonnay and rosé Champagnes often present more vivacious, energetic bubbles compared to Pinot Noir-dominated blends. When its time to select a bottle, the choice between freshness and layers of opulence in Champagne depends on your personal taste, but comes down to how long it’s been cellared, as time breaks down the acidity.
Another fascinating fact we learned: Champagne production heavily relies on red grapes. Pinot Noir and Meunier account for two-thirds of the region’s vines. The reason most Champagne is white when most Champagne comes from red grapes is that the juice is pressed quickly after harvest to avoid bitterness from the seeds and stems, preserving the maximum potential aromas. Longer aging on lees (the sediment left after fermentation) not only deepens flavor but also acts as a natural antioxidant, enhancing the wine’s complexity and aging potential.
One standout from our tasting came from Gimonnet, a Champagne house with roots dating back to the 1700s. Their production process includes stainless steel vinification and extended aging—8 months in tank and 3 years in bottle—to craft a wine that balances precision and depth. We challenged our host to suggest an inventive pairing to showcase how well Champagne can stand up to heartier dishes and he suggested Côte de Veau grilled on a Big Green Egg.
Les Trésors de Champagne doesn’t just serve wine; it offers an education, pairing history, technique, and tasting notes in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious beginner, this wine bar is a must-stop in Reims before you head out on your own to other tastings.
Les Trésors de Champagne, 2, Rue Olivier Métra, 51100 Reims, France, +33 (0)3 26 48 28 42
Note: Les Trésors de Champagne provided support for the reporting of this story.