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“And Suddenly, Champagne” at Villa Douce

By URCA x the Georges Chappaz Institute of Vine and Wine in Champagne x the Museum of Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology

SEPTEMBER 19

Throughout the day, explore how the ways of enjoying champagne have evolved—from gastronomy and the art of the table to food-and-champagne pairings and Reims’ heritage—through the exhibition *Et soudain le Champagne*, presented by the Museum of Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology.

Guided tours, food-and-champagne pairing workshops led by the Georges Chappaz Institute of Vine and Wine in Champagne, as well as fun activities for children, enrich this free event.

A delightful interlude combining heritage, champagne culture, and an immersive exploration of an Art Deco venue that is exceptionally open to the public as part of the Relais du Goût event.

Free admission

In detail

At Villa Douce, you’ll step into an iconic landmark of Reims’ heritage for a day dedicated to champagne, fine dining, and Art Deco.

In the auditorium, you’ll discover a selection of artworks, posters, menus, and documents from the exhibition “Et soudain le Champagne,” presented by the Épernay Museum of Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology from October 2025 to April 2026.

This exhibition invites you to explore how the customs surrounding champagne have evolved throughout history. You’ll see how it has become a staple of celebrations, table settings, menus, and food pairings. The exhibits offer a glimpse into the ways champagne has been served, presented, and shared over the centuries.

To help visitors explore the exhibition further, the museum’s director and curator offers guided tours of the exhibition.

You can also participate in a small-group workshop on food and champagne pairings, led by the Georges Chappaz Institute of Vine and Wine in Champagne.

Younger children can also enjoy the day thanks to fun activities centered on the menu, treats, and imagination.

Villa Douce

Built between 1929 and 1934 for notary André Douce by architects Pol Gosset and Jacques Debat-Ponsan, Villa Douce is one of the most remarkable examples of Art Deco architecture in Reims.

Its brick façade and its interior, inspired by the Paquebot style, reflect the elegance of the 1930s.

Listed for its music salon, it now houses the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne and opens its doors exceptionally as part of the Relais du Goût event.

Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology Museum in Épernay

Housed in the remarkable Château Perrier, an architectural gem of the 19th century, the Épernay Museum of Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology invites visitors to discover the history of the Champagne region, from its archaeological origins to the story of champagne. Through its collections, the museum highlights the traditions, landscapes, and customs that have shaped the identity of Champagne.

Georges Chappaz Institute for Vine and Wine in Champagne

The Georges Chappaz Institute for Vine and Wine in Champagne is a center for research, education, and knowledge-sharing dedicated to the wine-growing culture of Champagne. Supported by the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, it brings together scientific, professional, and cultural perspectives to better understand vineyards, wine, and their place in our society.

Ticket Office

Practical Information

Duration: 30 min for the guided tour | 1 hour for the “Food and Champagne Pairings” event ” workshop
Location: Villa Douce – 9 boulevard de la Paix, 51100 Reims
20 people per guided tour – on-site registration | 10 to 12 participants per workshop session – on-site registration
In French

Prices:
Free admission

Dates and times:
Saturday, September 19:

Self-guided tour of the exhibition: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Guided tour (5 time slots): 10:00 a.m. | 10:30 a.m. | 11:00 a.m. | 2:00 p.m. | 2:30 p.m.
“Food and Champagne Pairings” Event (2 sessions): 11 a.m. | 3 p.m.