Is Champagne Worth Visiting in Winter?

A lot of people think you can't visit Champagne in winter, or that everything is closed until spring. That's not the case at all. Winter is definitely a good time to visit, and in many ways it's quite magical. It's colder and the days are shorter, but the region is much quieter, and that can make for a really special trip.

It's Quieter

In summer and during harvest, Champagne gets busy. The villages see a lot of visitors and producers are often fully booked.

In winter that changes. The growers are less rushed, and they usually have more time to talk to you. Some of my favourite tastings have been on cold, grey days when it was just us and the winemaker in the cellar, with no one waiting for the next group.

Visiting the Big Houses in Winter

If you're very set on visiting the big, famous Champagne houses, winter is not the best time to come. Many of them close their doors to visitors for part of the winter season, so it can be difficult to get a visit.

The small family growers are a different story. Most of them still welcome visitors in winter, and it's actually a lovely time to visit them, because things are calmer and the visits feel more personal.

The Christmas Market in Reims

If you visit in December, the Christmas market in Reims is well worth seeing. It's one of the biggest in France, with around 150 wooden chalets along the Hautes-Promenades in the city centre, selling local food, gifts and of course a glass of Champagne. There's also a big Ferris wheel on Place d'Erlon, which gives a lovely view over the city. It's a nice way to spend an evening after a day in the vineyards

Habits de Lumière in Épernay

Épernay also has a special December event called Habits de Lumière. For a few days, the Avenue de Champagne is lit up with light displays, and there's music, food and plenty of Champagne along the avenue. It's very special to see, and one of my favourite times of year in Épernay.

Dates for both events change every year, so it's worth checking before you travel.

The Cellars Are the Same All Year

Something many people don't know is that the cellars stay at about the same temperature all year round, so a cellar visit in January feels much the same as one in July. They are always a bit cool, so I'd bring an extra layer whatever the season.

What to Keep in Mind

If you're travelling to Champagne over Christmas and New Year, it's worth knowing that this can be a tricky time to visit producers. Many small growers host their own tastings or work with very small teams, and like everyone else, they take time off to be with their families over the holidays. That means visits during the week between Christmas and New Year can be hard to arrange, so it's best to plan ahead and keep your expectations flexible.

Producers are also closed between 12:00 and 14:00 all year, so I'd always book visits in advance in winter rather than just turning up.

The days are short too, so it's worth starting a bit earlier. And bring a warm coat and good shoes, because the weather can be cold and wet

A Good Time for Richer Champagnes

I enjoy drinking richer styles in winter, like Blanc de Noirs or Champagnes that have aged longer in the cellar. They go really well with heavier winter food, and a long lunch somewhere warm after a cold morning in the vineyards is one of the nicest parts of a winter visit.

Visiting Champagne This Winter?

If you're planning a trip and have questions, feel free to reach out. I'm happy to help you plan a guided day or a self-guided itinerary that works for the season.