While in France, escape to the countryside and experience the Champagne region. 

Our first stop was Taittinger located in Reims for a private tour and tasting. Our tour guide greeted us with a warm welcome, then led us 18 meters below ground level into the breathtaking Gallo-Roman chalk quarries. They are part of the ‘Coteaux, Maisons et Caves de Champagne’ (hillsides, Champagne houses and cellars in Champagne) and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Taittinger’s cellars not only hold their Comtes de Champagne vintage, but nearly two millennia of history! Perhaps the most interesting wine cellar ever?

Having forged strong links with several artists, Claude Taittinger created the Taittinger Collection in 1983. He received support from some of the greatest names in contemporary art to showcase the best vintage produced by the Champagne House. The bottle becomes both the canvas and the inspiration for a creation, signed by a distinguished artist. The Hungarian artist, Vasarelt was the first to produce work for this unique art gallery, which to date includes a long line of designs by artists such as Andre Masson, Roy Lichtenstein, Imani, Rauschenberg, and Amadou Sou.

“In tomorrow’s world, there will only be space for big corporations and artists. Which side will you choose for Taittinger champagne?” Instinctively, Claude Taittinger replied “The artists”.

Following the private tour, we lounged in the salon and sipped on lovely Taittinger Champagnes. The picturesque view of the garden and Baccarat sconces caught my eye.

From the setting to the exceptional service and champagnes – my experience at Taittinger was very special and one I will never forget!

Beautiful chateau modeled after the 18th Century Château de la Marquetterie in France. 

Grab a glass and take in beautiful views of the Carneros Region’s lush green rolling hills.

The elegant, Vintage Room.

Escape to Domaine Carneros for a French inspired wine tasting experience in Napa Valley. Domaine Carneros was founded by the noble Taittinger family best known for its long-esteemed knowledge of wine, particularly champagne that traces back centuries to Champagne, France. The Taittinger family selected the 138 acre Carneros property, thus bringing the Taittinger business to the United States. Modeled after the 18th century Château de la Marquetterie in France, Domaine Carneros features formal gardens, an elegant salon, and large outdoor terraces with exquisite views of Napa Valley.

Domaine Carneros, renowned for award-winning estate sparkling wine and Pinot Noir is a must-visit when in Napa Valley.  We sat down in the elegant Vintage Room for a versatile tasting experience and sipped handcrafted sparkling and still wines paired with smoked salmon plated to look like a rose. In addition, local artisanal cheeses and a beautifully presented charcuterie board. The attention to detail was incredible! Our wine educator, Peggy, was very knowledgeable and told us intriguing stories about every wine tasted. If I had to pick a favorite, it would be the Le Reve Blanc De Blancs. French for “the dream”, Le Reve is crafted from 100% estate-owned chardonnay, a pure expression of Domaine Carneros.

In the early summer of 2018, Domaine Carneros will open the “jardin d’hiver” (winter garden in French). This will be a beautiful addition to the Domaine, a gorgeous indoor space that will feel like the outdoors.

I wore an outfit by Luisa Spagnoli that included breton stripe details. – a little Parisian touch to match the winery’s French vibe. Whether you’re looking for something for a Napa Valley getaway, fun and flirty for a party, or a professional look, visit Luisa Spagnoli at Stanford Shopping Center in Palo Alto, California as there is something fabulous for women of all ages. In addition to the brand’s store at Stanford Shopping Center, it has 150+ stores in Italy and Europe. If you’re a globe trotter, you may be familiar with this renown Italian brand as Luisa Spagnoli shops are located in the historic centers of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Next time you’re in Napa Valley, grab a glass of vino at Domaine Carneros and experience the winery’s wonderful wine tastings and food & wine pairings. You will not be disappointed!