Taittinger: "The champagne of elegance - since 1734."

The Taittinger Champagne House: tradition, innovation and French elegance

The Taittinger Champagne House is one of the most renowned and traditional winegrowers in Champagne. With a history dating back to the 18th century, the company embodies not only the perfection of champagne craftsmanship, but also the spirit of the French way of life. Taittinger represents a rare balance between historical heritage and modern entrepreneurship, between classic production methods and innovative approaches. This essay explores the history of the house, the specialities of its production, its most famous cuvées and Taittinger's role in the global wine world.

The history of Taittinger: from its foundation to the modern age

The roots of Taittinger date back to 1734, when Jacques Fourneaux founded a wine trading company in Reims. However, it was not until the 20th century that the company took on its current name: Pierre Taittinger, a visionary businessman and wine lover, took control of the house in 1932. Under his leadership, Taittinger developed into one of the leading champagne producers.

The Taittinger family had a lasting influence on the house. Claude Taittinger, who drove the international expansion in the 1960s and 1970s, became particularly well known. There was a brief period in the 2000s when the company was sold to the US investment fund Starwood Capital Group, but the family managed to regain control in 2006. Since then, Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger has managed the company with the aim of preserving the family tradition and at the same time opening up new markets.

The vineyards and the terroir approach

A decisive factor in the quality of Taittinger champagne is the company's own vineyards, which cover some of the best sites in Champagne. The house owns around 288 hectares of vineyards, with a particular focus on the Grand Cru and Premier Cru communes. The vineyards in:

• Avize, Cramant and Oger (Côte des Blancs), where the best Chardonnay grows, which is responsible for Taittinger's elegance and freshness.

• Bouzy and Ambonnay (Montagne de Reims), known for their powerful Pinot Noir grapes.

Taittinger is strongly committed to the idea of terroir, i.e. the conviction that the flavour of champagne is largely determined by the soil, climate and location. The character of the grapes is preserved through sustainable cultivation and careful vinification.

Production: artisanal perfection and modern technology

As with all major champagne houses, the Méthode Traditionnelle plays a central role. However, Taittinger combines traditional methods with state-of-the-art cellar technology. Some of the special features of production are

1. Long ageing on the lees- Many Taittinger champagnes are aged significantly longer than required by law. The prestige cuvée "Comtes de Champagne", for example, is aged in the cellar for up to ten years, which gives it exceptional complexity.

2. High proportion of Chardonnay- Taittinger is known for its emphasis on Chardonnay, which gives its champagnes a special freshness and mineral flavour.

3. Millesimé philosophy - Millésimé champagnes are only produced in the best vintages, which then mature for a particularly long time.

Taittinger's most famous cuvées

Taittinger offers a wide range of champagnes, from the simple Brut Reserve to the luxurious Prestige Cuvée. The most famous are:

• Taittinger Brut Réserve - The house's entry-level champagne, known for its balance with notes of white fruits and almonds.

• Taittinger Prélude Grands Crus - A cuvée made only from Grand Cru grapes, which is particularly creamy and long-lasting.

• Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs - The legendary top cuvée made from 100% Chardonnay, a champagne of great finesse and longevity.

• Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Rosé - A rare and sought-after rosé champagne with an intense, berry flavour.

Taittinger in the global wine world

Taittinger enjoys a high reputation worldwide and is represented on the best wine lists and at exclusive events. The company is also involved in cultural projects, for example by supporting the renovation of Reims Cathedral, a symbol of Champagne.

The founding of Domaine Evremond in England was a special sign of the house's innovative spirit - a project that shows that Taittinger is also breaking new ground to shape the future of champagne.

Conclusion: A champagne house with soul

Taittinger embodies the essence of champagne like few other houses: elegance, complexity and joie de vivre. By combining tradition and modernity, an understanding of terroir and entrepreneurial vision, Taittinger remains one of the most important players in the world of sparkling wine. When you open a Taittinger champagne, you are not just savouring a wine, but a piece of French cultural history.