3 good reasons to visit the Champagne Wine Museum in Épernay

It's the Château Perrier, Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, that hosts this extraordinary museum. The private hotel is open to the public all year round to explore the history of Champagne wine and Champagne. And even if you're a seasoned connoisseur of our sparkling drink (and the Melchizedek holds no secrets for you), the place itself is worth a visit. Here are 3 good reasons to go there:

1. For the prestigious address

Located at 13 Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, the museum's address is… Nothing less than one of the most famous avenues in the world! Classed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Avenue is lined with private hotels and is home to the most renowned Champagne houses. Under your feet? 110 kilometers of cellars containing nearly 200 million bottles. Visiting the museum is also a chance to (re)discover the avenue that is nicknamed “the richest in the world.”

uo;.

.

2. For the beauty of the private hotel and its garden

The Château Perrier is 173 years old and represents a whole era of champagne. Charles Perrier, then the director of Maison Perrier-Jouët, envisioned a grand place that would serve as a residence, a reception venue… and a champagne production facility. Mission accomplished! With its parlor, grand staircase, sumptuous garden, and cobblestone courtyard, it’s easy to see why this château belongs on Avenue de Champagne. A special mention goes to the cellar in the basement: simply impressive.

3. To Understand What We’re Drinking

Beyond just explaining "how-champagne-is-made", the museum offers a broader perspective on the history of Champagne wine production. It starts with geology to understand our chalky soils, follows with archaeology to trace human life in this area through the ages. Then, it’s time to dive into the making of Champagne wine. You'll learn so much: Did Dom Pérignon really invent champagne? What’s the name of the biggest bottle? And what was advertising like back in the day before the Evin Law? In short: it’s fascinating, and you’ll leave with plenty of tidbits to impress at the next gathering.

The little extra : in addition to the permanent collections, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions in the Pavilion of the Café. A great excuse to go back again!