Hautvillers is a legendary village in Champagne, located in the heart of the Reims Mountain vineyards. This little village is where it all began when Monk Dom Pérignon who worked at the Abbey in the town, “discovered” Champagne. It might surprise you to know, and I don’t want to burst your bubble – though it seems that this famous monk did – but, historians tells us that he tried hard to get rid of the fizz we love so much. He was actually more interested in improving the vines, the bottling process, the corking and the whole technical aspects of making this famous wine. Whatever, we all love the idea of him holding his glass aloft and calling “Brothers, come quick I am tasting the stars” and I’m sticking with that story!
Dom Pérignon’s tomb rests today in the chancel of the Saint-Sindulphe abbey church. The town itself is quite small, with a few restaurants and shops that have wonderful iron advertising signs. There are fabulous views of the countryside around and, if like me you’re a Champagne fan, this is a great place to spend a half day and enjoy a relaxing lunch or dinner accompanied by of course, Champagne!
The Champagne Prayer
I leave you with the Hautvillers town prayer as spotted on the door above! La prière du matin à la mode champagne:
Donnez-moi la santé pour longtemps, du boulot pas trop souvent, de l’amour de temps en temps, mais du champagne tout le temps.
Give me health for a long time, Work, not too often, Love, from time to time, But Champagne all the time!
More on Champagne
Guide to Champagne Bottles and Sizes
Champagne – the French Elixir
Guide to Epernay “capital of Champagne the drink”
Guide to Reims, Capital of Champagne
