a Simpler Life

Spending time in the French countryside always makes me crave a more simple way of life... does a certain locale make you feel that way too?

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Champagne | A Sparkling Visit

As part of my brother's visit to Paris, we drove two hours northeast of the city to spend a few days discovering the region of Champagne. Throughout its history, champagne has been consumed at coronations and celebrations, and his being here was as special as any big event, so it was a fine excuse to go and raise a celebratory glass or two...

The Champagne region is dotted with well known champagne houses as well as smaller but equally reputable producers. We toured several, marveled at their 4th century chalk pits and bas-relief carvings and passed rows upon rows of carefully stored bottles of dust-covered champagne, romantic and regal in their pre-label suits.

For me, the most memorable part of our trip was our stay next to the vineyards of a multi-generation family-run champagne house that doubles as a bed and breakfast. Their champagne rivals the big houses, and on our last evening we thought it fitting to top off the trip with a champagne picnic on their terrace, watching the sun set over the vines, toasting and talking of returning together again one day...

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