The delicious new champagnes due to be landing on all British airways flights will complete their club and first premium wine list. As I discovered on a recent trip with BA, premium customers of the airline will be delighted even further, as their palettes will be spoiled by the houses of Champagne de Castelnau, Champagne Henriot and Champagne Laurent Perrier.
My two day adventure across France started off in the city of Paris, then onwards to the beautiful countryside of the Champagne region. Paris is and always will be, a good idea. Especially when staying at a hotel that has a reputation emphasised greatly on absolute luxury. I am (of course) talking about Le Royal Monceau. Picture a place where the finest delicacies of the world are brought to your very feet, the moment you set foot through its doors.
Managed by the notorious Aaron Kaupp, formally of the Belmond Villa San Michelle in Florence, Le Royal Monceau offers you exceptional suites with luxurious designs and comfort. To add to the hotel experience, you can now enjoy the resturant excellence of Chef Nobu Matsushisa inside the Matsuhisa restaurant.
Journey through Champagne Region…
The first house to grace us with a warm welcome was Laurent Perrier, in the commune of Epernay. Being my first ever visit to a champagne house, it was nothing but sensational to see the true workings of champagne production. Beneath the house itself we encompass over 8km’s of cellars which are hundreds of years old, as well as well as the most incredible stainless steel tanks you will ever see. Within the house we were able to sample several of the fine Laurent Perrier champagnes, including their Cuvee; the Grande Siècle. With over 7 million bottles of Laurent Perrier produced every year, it’s no wonder why the house has grown such a prestige reputation in history.
Our second stop takes us to the house of Castelnau, situated in the heart of Reims, France. Founded in 1916, Castelnau produce around half a million bottles per year, with their grapes growers owning more than 900 hectares of vineyards across Champagne. The taste speaks for itself, with essences of floral and honey notes.
Our final stop of the tour brought us to the house of Henriot, a champagne family who select only the best vineyards to produce 50% pinot noir and 50% chardonnay wines. With vineyards as old as 50 years of age, it just goes to show the level of utmost respect Henriot house have for the beauty of time, to ensure their wines reach their full potential.
Quite possibly the most magnificent few days I’ve ever had, with fellow peers who share my passion for travel and success. Premium British Airways clients you’re in safe hands. I can assure you.
Anton Welcome.