The Champagne region’s artisanal skills aren’t confined to producing the bubbles in its eponymous liquid. With such an explosion of aromas and flavours, maybe it’s time to give the taste buds a break and let your eyes take the strain.

More than just a barrel

Jérôme Viard has been a cooper since 1998, the year he decided to combine his passion for wine with his love of wood. His expertise led him to establish the Tonnellerie Champenoise cooperage with two business partners. In a short space of time, the company achieved Entreprises du Patrimoine Vivant, or Living Heritage Company, status. A true enthusiast, Jérôme decided to take his passion to the next level by using the off cuts to create accessories, boxes, furniture and other goods. The cooperage is located in Cauroy-lès-Hermonville.

Did you say chic?

Julie Valade decided to transform the champagne bottle’s famous cap into… trinkets! A designer with a degree in art and design, this young woman from the famous village of Hautvillers recycles the caps that seal the champagne corks and transforms them into jewellery. Find out more by heading to Maison des Champard’Ises at 37 rue Dom Pérignon in Hautvillers!

Chocolate heaven

Xavier Thibaut took over Pierry, a family-run chocolate business, 12 years ago. His speciality? Champagne corks. A chocolate containing champagne liqueurs that come in a dozen different flavours, the most famous being marc de champagne. Chocolates aren’t your cup of tea? Don't worry! When it comes to sweet treats, Thibaut has something for everyone!

Champagne certainly has more to offer than you might think. Plenty for all the family!