• The climate

The Champagne terroir is characterized by two major features: - A northerly latitude: lying some 150km to the northeast of Paris, the vines are planted at the northernmost limits of their cold tolerance - A dual climate: characterized by a continental influence which ensures high levels of sunlight in summer and cold winters with sometimes devastating frosts, and by an oceanic influence which brings steady rainfall

• The soils

The limestone is an essential part of the quality of the wines. This type of soil provides good drainage and also contributes to the mineral flavor found in some Champagne wines. Besides, chalk allows to dig deep cellars in order to age and preserve wine.

• The grapes

The Pinot Noir accounts for 38% of plantings and adds backbone and body to the blend, producing wines with aromas of red berries and good structure.

The Pinot Meunier accounts for 32% of plantings and adds roundness to the blend, producing supple, fruity wines. It produces wines that tend to age more quickly than wines made with theother two varieties.

The Chardonnay accounts for 30% of plantings and yields fragrant wines with notes of flowers and sometimes minerals. It produces wines that are built to age.

• The regions

The Champagne production zone encompasses 34,000 hectares of vineyards. There are four main growing areas:

- The Montagne de Reims is a vast plateau between Epernay and Reims covered with forests. The predominant grape variety is the Pinot Noir where the cool, chalky terrain suits it perfectly.

- The Marne Valley stretches from the west of Château-Thierry to the east of Epernay. The Meunier is well suited to the argillaceous soils of the Marne Valley.

- The Côte des Blancs is located at the south of Epernay. The Chardonnay is king on the Côte des Blancs.

- The Côte des Bar is located at the south east of Troyes. The Pinot Noir is well suited for its soils of marl.