Côte des Blancs Grand Cru Chardonnay

The "White Coast" produces Champagne's finest Chardonnay. Cramant, Avize, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger - villages where Romans first discovered chalk slopes perfect for white grapes. Taste Blanc de Blancs Champagnes in cellars carved into the same chalk Romans quarried.

Insider tips

• Pierre Péters in Le Mesnil makes legendary Blanc de Blancs (book ahead)

• Agrapart & Fils offers grower Champagne tastings with terroir focus

• September is magical - walk through golden Chardonnay vines before harvest

• Blanc de Blancs from here age for decades - invest in vintage bottles