Côte des Bar Wine Region

The Cote des Bar wine region is one of the best Champagne-producing districts, with breathtaking scenery, a rich culture, and a centuries-long history. Despite being part of a much larger Champagne wine region, the region's characteristics are very similar to Chablis, which is much closer than the rest of Champagne. This incredible wine region produces some of the best bubbles in the wine industry, primarily from Pinot Noir blended with champagne blends, accounting for approximately 23% of total champagne production. Passionate winemakers from the region have been producing exceptional champagnes that are one-of-a-kind and full of ardor. Troyes, the major Roman town center, is also in the area, with other historically significant structures scattered throughout the region.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Cote des Bar!

Where is the Cote des Bar wine region?

The Cote des Bar wine region is located in the Aube region of northeastern France, in the Grand Est region, just 150 kilometers southeast of Epernay, and is the southernmost area of the Champagne wine region. The Cote des Bar is located between Champagne and the Cote d'Or of Burgundy, but it has a completely different terrain, climate, and soil than the vineyards in Champagne. The terrain, soil, and climate are more similar to that of Burgundy's Chablis than the rest of Champagne. The area is bounded to the north by Marne, to the east by Haute-Marne, to the southeast by Cote D'or, to the southwest by Yonne, and to the west by Seine et Marne.

History of the Cote des Bar wine region

The Tricasses and Lingones were the first to settle on the Cote des Bar in 400BC. Later in the 2-3rd century, Greeks and monks settled in the area, establishing the winemaking culture. Winemaking in the area dates back more than 1000 years and served the territories of northern France. The region has long been regarded as a second-rate wine-growing region, and it was also pushed out of the Champagne region in the early twentieth century. The Cote des Bar's leading wine growers protested this event. The region was granted the Champagne deuxieme zone, or the second champagne zone, in 1911. The region has been a part of the Champagne wine region since 1927.

The terroir and geography of the Cote des Bar wine region

The terroir of the Cote des Bar is distinct from the rest of the Champagne wine region. Because it is so close to Burgundy, the region is very similar. The soils are Kimmeridgian marl and Portlandian limestone, which are similar to those found in Chablis. The landscape is absolutely gorgeous, with rolling lush green hills, valleys, dense forests, and over 20 rivers. The organic and biodynamic approaches used in the region's viticulture set it apart from other regions. The climate is mild, with summers that are not too dry and winters that are not too cold. The region is both continental and oceanic, with an average temperature of 10.1 degrees Celsius. Cote des Bar is blessed with abundant rainfall and a prevailing wind from the Burgundy region. Pinot Noir thrives in the region due to its warm climate, and it responds well to chalky soils.

Popular grape varieties from the Cote des Bar wine region

Pinot Noir dominates the Cote des Bar wine region, accounting for more than 86% of the vineyards. In addition, the region grows all seven Champagne-allowed grapes, including Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Arbanne, and Petit Meslier. Chardonnay accounts for 10% of total grape production, while Pinot Meunier accounts for only 4%. Learn about Champagne wines firsthand by exploring the Cote des Bar wine region, meeting the winemakers, and visiting Champagne houses and cooperatives.

Food to pair with Cote des Bar wine 

Grilled Portobello mushrooms

White button mushrooms and portobello mushrooms are the same, except that portobello mushrooms are older. These mushrooms are characterized as brown and large compared to younger white mushrooms. Portobello mushrooms are brushed with marinade, oil, and seasoning on both sides before grilling the cap side down until slightly charred. Lemon juice, cheese, or vinaigrette are frequently added to the dish. These portobello mushrooms have meaty flavors that pair well with medium to full-bodied wines. Pair this dish with Cote des Bar champagne.

Île flottante

Île flottante, also known as a floating island, is a French dessert that consists of a meringue floating on vanilla custard. Caramel sauce and roasted almonds are frequently added to the dessert. The meringue is made by whipping egg whites, sugar, and vanilla extract, then baking it. The dish was first mentioned in a cookery book in 1747. Some versions of this dish use a thicker sauce topped with dumplings. Custard is made with milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolks. This sweet dessert complements the bubbly champagne from the Cote des Bar region perfectly.

Madeleines

Madeleines are traditional cakes from northern France that have a buttery taste and consistency similar to that of spongy cake. The cake is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The dish first appeared in France during the 18th century but gained popularity only during the early 19th century. These cakes are often served along the afternoon tea and are widely popular amongst locals in Lorraine. Madeleines are made with many flavors and variations including vanilla, chocolate, rose, and honey. This savoury tiny cake goes amazingly well with Champagne from Cote des Bar. 

Places to visit in the Cote des Bar wine region

Eglise Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul

The Saint Pierre Church is a medieval church that dates back to the 12th century Benedictine monks. The monument served as a Benedictine monastery during the middle ages which are currently one of the major tourist destinations. This fantastic church is located in the heart of the Aube and is surrounded by a market. The church boasts its hallway, huge bell tower, and Roman portals which are considered the main attraction. The church houses several well-preserved statues from the 16th century. Visit this historical monument while you are on your tour in the Cote des Bar region. 

Nigloland theme park

Nigloland theme park is an amusement park that caters to all ages, from toddlers to adults. The park is the second most visited park in France, after Disneyland Paris, and is regarded as the third-best European theme park. The park has an amazing roller coaster that is the world's highest rotating freefall tower. There are approximately 27 attractions suitable for children under 1 meter in height, which can accommodate the majority of children. The time spent here will be magical and memorable for families and friends, with an atmosphere to match your selection of four different departments. There are 8 themed restaurants where you can have a happy meal. The park also includes a four-star hotel with comfortable accommodations. The park is open all year, including public holidays.

Frequently asked questions about Cote des Bar