France: Epernay – Moet & Chandon Cellars
Moet & Chandon is the undisputed king of champagne production and owner of the most prestigious brands of Brut Imperial and Dom Perignon. They own about 28km of cellars underneath Epernay and many prime vineyards in the Champagne region. The champagne production is meticulous – 1 month of first fermentation and 2 years of second fermentation. Imperial Brut is a combination of different harvests but delivering the same identical taste (it’s an equal mix of three grape types). During best years, Moet & Chandon produces vintage champagnes that get a special vintage designation (last one was 2008). Dom Perignon is a mix of 2 grapes, has an extra year of bottle fermentation and is vintage. An hour long tour takes you though several kilometers of cellars showcasing the operation. Moet & Chandon was the official supplier of champagne to the French kings and still is the sole supplier of both Queen Elizabeth II and Formula One racing.
