Things to do in the Champagne Region
Every year, we return to the Champagne region. It has become a habit in our editorial calendar, and for good reason. Boizel, Vollereaux, Crucifix, Boutillier-Poissinet, the vineyards here reward repeat visits. The landscape is beautiful, and the people behind these houses talk with a directness that no tasting note can replace. © photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
Published 7 May 2025
Atelier 1834 - Champagne Boizel
Located in the heart of Epernay, Boizel is a renowned Champagne House that was founded in 1834. With a rich history and a commitment to producing high-quality champagnes, Boizel has become a favorite among wine enthusiasts both in France and around the world. One of the highlights of visiting the Boizel House is the opportunity to taste two of their exceptional champagnes: the ambassador, the Brut Réserve, and the Grand Vintage 2014. They are included in the Millésime visiting package.
© photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
Oak Barrels and UNESCO-Listed Cellars
During your visit, you will have the chance to explore various areas of Boizel. You can start by visiting "Le Cellier," where you can see the oak barrels used in the aging process. The next stop is "La Cuverie," which houses impressive stainless-steel vats where the grapes are transformed into wine. As you continue your tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the historical cellars, which have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These cellars hold a special significance and are home to the family's "Trésor", very old bottles locked behind prison bars.
From Brut Réserve to Grand Vintage
Included in the tour, you will have the chance to taste two champagnes. The first is the Brut Réserve, a non-vintage champagne that represents the signature style of Boizel. It has balance and complexity. The second champagne you will taste is the Grand Vintage 2014, which shows the exceptional quality of a specific year's harvest. This vintage champagne offers a unique flavor profile and is sure to impress.
The public visit lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and can accommodate a maximum of 12 people, which was the case when we visited. Visits can be booked in English and French.
Boizel's Personalized Millésime Tour
Visiting Boizel offers a unique opportunity to learn about the world of champagne production and discover the craftsmanship behind these wines. This experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Champagne Boizel
46 avenue de Champagne, 51200 Epernay
Website
Champagne Vollereaux
In the heart of the Montagne de Reims, Vollereaux offers a nice experience for wine enthusiasts. This family-run estate has been producing Champagne since 1874 and continues to delight visitors with their range.
During a tasting at Vollereaux, you'll have the opportunity to learn about the traditional methods used to produce their Champagnes. Do the tasting experience that shows the flavors of Vollereaux' Champagnes, like the Celebration ICE, Brut Rosé de Saignée and Blanc de Blancs 2014. You can also book an 'experience' at Vollereaux.
Champagne Crucifix
If you're looking for a champagne brand that reflects tradition and passion, then you must try Champagne Crucifix Père et Fils. This brand has a rich history that started generations ago, with families who worked hard to cultivate the land and the vines with respect and dedication.
Five Generations of Crucifix Champagne
André and his wife Paule created the first family label and marketed the first bottles of champagne under the "Gabriël Potier" brand. Later on, their daughter Nelly and her husband Pierre Crucifix took over the business and created their label "Champagne Pierre Crucifix". The business was then passed on to Jean-Jacques, who modernized the company and developed their customer network under the label "Jean-Jacques Crucifix".
Sébastien Crucifix, the son of Jean-Jacques, was destined to continue the tradition of his family. He brings fresh ideas to the table, inspired both by his own education and his study abroad, while still keeping in mind respect for the vine and the environment. This fifth-generation winegrower founded "Crucifix Père et Fils" in 2005. During your visit, make sure to allocate at least 1,5 hours of your time. Sébastien is known for his ability to passionately discuss his Champagne while offering a delightful tasting experience.
Sébastien has followed in the footsteps of his predecessors, developing cuvees in the same tradition as his forefathers. His wife, Carole, also joined the family business. With their passion and commitment, the future of Champagne Crucifix Père et Fils looks very bright.
Passion and Terroir, Perfected Through Generations
We highly recommend you to try this brand, to experience the passion and respect for the land and the vines that the Crucifix family has kept for generations. We always buy their Prestige Brut and Réserve Brut.
Champagne Crucifix Père et Fils
3 Allée de la Livre - 51160 Avenay-Val-d’Or
Website
Champagne Boutillier-Poissinet
Boutillier-Poissinet is a smaller winery located in the heart of the Côte des Blancs, known for its exceptional Chardonnay grapes. And it is one of our favorite Champagne houses. This family-run estate has been producing Champagne since 1960 and remains dedicated to producing wines of the highest quality. As you step into their tasting room -actually the dining room of the house-, you'll be greeted by the warm hospitality of the family.
Passion and Flavors
During your visit to Boutillier-Poissinet, you'll have the opportunity to taste a selection of their Champagnes, each showing the unique characteristics of the terroir. You'll be treated to a sensory journey that highlights the diversity of Boutillier-Poissinet wines. We usually buy the Rosé de saigné and Champagne Réserve, which are wonderful and affordable.
Champagne Boutillier-Poissinet
rue Blanche 36, 517000 BINSON ET ORQUIGNY
Other Must-Visit Wineries
While Boizel, Volleraux, Crucifix, and Boutillier-Poissinet are undeniably remarkable, the Champagne region is home to hundreds of other wineries worth exploring. We like to offer you a short list of Champagne houses we like to visit:
Reims region
- Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin in Reims, for their beautiful cellars and wonderful champagne.
- De Carlini Jean-Yves in Verzenay for their rosé champagne.
- Denis Bovière, Verzenay: good brut and rosé.
- JM Gobillard et Fils, Dizy, across the street of the Église abbatiale Saint-Sindulphe d'Hautvillers. The church contains the tombs of Dom Ruinart and Dom Pierre Pérignon. Big tasting room.
- Jeeper, Faverolles-et-Coëmy: good champagne in beautiful bottles.
Epernay region
- Caillez Lemaire, Damery: good tasting experience.
- Moët et Chandon, Epernay: well-know brand.
Be sure to plan in advance and make reservations, as some wineries have limited availability or may be closed on certain days. And remember, Sunday is for most smaller houses the closing day.
Tips for Planning Your Champagne Winery Tour
When planning your Champagne winery tour, it's essential to consider a few key factors to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your journey.
Research and select wineries that align with your preferences
With so many wineries to choose from, it's important to research and select the ones that offer the types of Champagnes and experiences you're most interested in. We recommend the idea of choosing a few larger houses in combination with small-scale producers.
Make reservations in advance
Many wineries in the Champagne region have limited availability, especially during peak seasons. To avoid disappointments, be sure to make reservations in advance.
Plan your transportation
The Champagne region is vast, and traveling between wineries can be time-consuming. Consider hiring a driver or booking a guided tour to ensure a stress-free and efficient experience.
Pace yourself
Champagne tastings can be quite indulgent, so it's important to pace yourself and drink responsibly. Take breaks between tastings to fully appreciate each Champagne.