What has now become a hugely successful internationally attended show-and-tell event of 30-plus groups began in 2009 with a single group of young and vigorous producers, Terres & Vins de Champagne, organised by Raphael Bérèche. They invited buyers, writers, photographers and guests to meet them in historic Aÿ, at Hotel Castel Jeanson, owned by the Goutorbe family, who also attended in their own right as vignerons and winemakers. Many of us thought, back then, it was worthwhile making a pilgrimage for just that occasion. Les Artisans du Champagne, with their illustrious members including some small family Houses, such as Alfred Gratien, presented their wines the following year.

The aim has always been to show quality and diversity, both from the vins clairs of the prior harvest, that is, the still wines after first fermentation, and newly released finished champagne from many harvests prior. Few people get to try champagne still wines the way they were before the bubbles were harnessed for our pleasure but, during this few days, that foreshadow of pleasure is ours.

Take a look at some beautiful images from Le Printemps des Champagnes 2024.