This is my second time in Champagne with my last visit 2021. It was wonderful to discover new champagne houses and restaurants, while also returning to a few favourites. There was definitely less drinking than the first time but it was still such a joy to sip great champagne, enjoy good food and spend quality time with friends.

Day 1

I got the Eurostar in the morning as I wanted to spend half a day in Paris to shop and eat. On arrival, I popped into Du Pain et des Idees for their pistachio and chocolate escargot, headed to Le Marais to do some shopping then went to Clamato for a seafood focussed lunch which was mostly good.

In the afternoon, we caught the train to Reims which was our base for 3 nights to explore Champagne.

In the evening, we went to Atome which I visited in 2021 but they turned the deli into a new concept. I loved the refreshed approach. The food was fresh, flavourful and beautifully prepared. Our favourites were the seasonal tomatoes, pate and ham. Eric and Aline are warm and welcoming and this a must visit when in Reims!

Day 2

We caught the train from Reims to Ay then caught an uber to Billecart Salmon, one of my favourites, for a 10am tour and tasting (€95). You must book 3 months ahead. The grounds were beautiful and it was great to learn about the house and do three delightful tastings.

We headed to Perrier Jouet to their Cellier Belle Epoque for their four course lunch with three non vintage cuvees. For €120, it really didn’t feel worth it as the food was pretty underwhelming. I’d stick to the bar and just enjoy a few drinks instead.

We took a stroll back to the station and caught the train back to Reims.

In the afternoon, we relaxed before heading to dinner at Sodad. It was a Mediterranean restaurant that was able to accommodate us without a reservation and the food was delicious.

Day 3

The next morning, Mags and I headed out for a run around Reims.

We went to Taittinger for a 11am tour and tasting (€80) which also came with food pairings. The tour was enjoyable as our tour guide was great and it was interesting to see the cellars. We sampled different savoury and sweet bites alongside two champagnes, the prestige rose and the vintage brut, and both were lovely.

We made our way to Ruinart next, another favourite of mine, for some food and champagne. As we sat at the bar, the whole experience felt much more relaxed and laid back.

In the afternoon, we paused for a matcha/coffee break at Moklair, drank the Billecart rose we picked up the other day in our airbnb and then later made our way to dinner at L’Atelier Entrecote et Volaille, for a tasty and affordable steak frites meal.

Day 4

We made our way back to Paris in the morning and grabbed a quick lunch at Le Petit Marché. I had a glass of red and some duck which was a pretty perfect way to wrap up the trip.

Champagne is a beautiful region and there are so many more houses to explore and discover – until next time!