
Taittinger
Champagne
Address:
9 Place Saint-Nicaise, 51100 Reims, Reims, France
Website:
Winemaker:
Alexandre Ponnavoy
First Vintage:
1943
Accepts Visitors:
Special Request
PRESTIGE

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Summary
Taittinger is one of the grand names in Champagne, richly imbued with history and a reputation for producing wines that epitomize the region's prestigious image. The Taittinger estate is nestled in the heart of Reims, a city synonymous with royalty and tradition, and the brand is one of the few remaining family-owned and operated grande marque Champagne houses.
The Taittinger story began in 1932 when the house was established by Pierre Taittinger, who fell in love with the region and its vineyards during his time in the Champagne regiments of World War I. Over the years, the house has been carefully managed by successive generations of the Taittinger family, ensuring that the philosophy of quality and style is maintained.
With its vineyards spanning 288 hectares, Taittinger boasts one of the largest estate-owned vineyards in Champagne, providing a significant portion of the grapes needed for production. This control over the vineyard and the grapes is crucial for maintaining the consistency and excellence of their Champagnes. The vineyards are planted with a high proportion of Chardonnay grapes, which is a hallmark of the Taittinger style, known for its elegance and finesse.
One of the most remarkable assets of Taittinger is its magnificent cellars. They are situated on the site of the historic Saint-Nicaise Abbey, dating back to the 13th century, and were originally Roman chalk quarries. The cellars maintain an optimal environment for the slow maturation of Champagne, with constant temperatures and minimal light exposure. Taittinger's dedication to a long maturation process ensures that each bottle reaches its full potential.
Taittinger's wine portfolio showcases a range of exceptional Champagnes. The flagship bottle, the Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs, is an exquisite example of a pure Chardonnay Champagne and is only produced in the finest vintages. It is renowned for its delicate mousse, vibrant acidity, and complex, layered flavors.
The Prestige Rosé adds a touch of vibrant color and berry-infused vivacity, while the Brut Réserve is an emblematic representation of the house's commitment to quality, displaying the balance and elegance that Taittinger Champagnes are known for. Each cuvée embodies the house's dedication to excellence, from the selection of fruit to the precise and skillful art of blending.
When visiting Taittinger, guests are often treated to a tour that includes a walk through the historic chalk cellars, an overview of the Champagne-making process, and, of course, a tasting session where one can experience the range of Taittinger's creations. The beauty of the estate, the depth of its history, and the quality of the wine all contribute to the luxurious and enchanting experience that epitomizes the brand.
Taittinger's commitment to tradition, alongside its innovative spirit and desire to express the character of its terroir, has established it as one of the most respected and cherished names in Champagne. Whether it's a toast to celebrate a special occasion or a quiet moment of appreciation, a glass of Taittinger Champagne is a sophisticated expression of joy and the French art de vivre.