Reims Champagne Houses: Roman or Medieval Cellars?

Taittinger, Ruinart, Veuve Clicquot, and Pommery all age Champagne in chalk quarries (crayères), and when they were dug depends on who tells it: Taittinger dates its oldest pits to the 4th century and Ruinart says its own were dug from the 5th century, while the UNESCO site body's own pages range from Gallo-Roman times to the 10th century and put Veuve Clicquot's pits in the Middle Ages and early modern times. These cathedral-like cellars maintain perfect temperature and humidity. Walk through the tunnels, now filled with millions of bottles.

Insider tips

• Taittinger dates its oldest pits to the 4th century - the UNESCO site body's own pages range from Gallo-Roman times to the 10th century

• Ruinart, founded in 1729, goes nearly 40 metres down into its chalk pits

• Veuve Clicquot offers a luxury tasting experience in historic caves

• Book morning slots to avoid crowds and get fresher palate