From Paris to Champagne: Discover the magic of the iconic wine region

CHAMPAGNE, France — The train journey along the Marne River from Paris to the region of Champagne is one of beauty and serenity. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, a short 90-mile train ride is all it takes to experience the magical offerings of taking a sip of history in a bottle with a breathtaking view of the French countryside. 
Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is champagne. So, why is this wine of special interest to wine connoisseurs around the world? The answer: history and nature.
European law and an 1891 treaty only allows for champagne to be produced in the Champagne region. The grapes grown and used are Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. America is the number one external market for Champagne. The Union des Maisons de Champagne (representatives of the champagne growers) consists of 370 houses, which makes the “Grandes Marques.” What makes this region so special is the climate conditions. Interestingly enough, change in climate has made it more difficult for oenologists to replicate taste year-after-year.
Of the many houses in the region, Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte is the third best-seller in the U.S. and the world. Tours of their headquarters in the Champagne region are open to the public, and the secret to its distinctiveness is revealed.  
“The area is quite small if we compare it to other wine growing regions in France, but unique. And with a unique soil with a signature type of stone which is chalk. Chalk gives this minerality and freshness to the wine,” says Anne-Laure Domenichini, corporate communications manager for  Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte.
Despite what most would think regarding the competitive nature of businesses, camaraderie and respect are evident and crucial amongst the houses in the region. Or, at least between Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte and Champagne Bollinger.
If you’ve ever watched a James Bond movie, then you’ve likely seen 007’s champagne of choice: Champagne Bollinger. This house has been featured in films since the 1979 “Moonraker,” and it’s all because of a gentlemen’s agreement. Today, their general manager in the region is Charles-Armand de Belenet, who also believes in the power of the wine.
“I believe that if you want to enjoy life, just come to Champagne, open a bottle of champagne and you realize life is great,” says de Belenet.
Anne-Laure believes the less-than-an-hour ride from the city is necessary for anyone visiting or living in France.
“It’s quick from Paris. You can do it in a day trip, and also, what I believe very strongly in is like it’s part of history,” she says. “You come to Champagne and every single family, every single house, every single brand has a different story to tell. And I think this is also quite comforting to have all those independent lives and stories to be able to listen to when you come to Champagne.”