In a previous column I discussed some of the highlights of a luxury visit to Paris, but I think it is in the stunning French countryside where this nation offers the most memorable experiences. From the warm sunshine of Provence and coastal beauty of the Cote D?Azur to the quiet river valleys of the Dordogne and the towering Alps, getting out of the cities leads you to the heart of France. On a recent visit (sponsored by one of our company?s partners) I had a chance to explore two great beverage-producing regions, Champagne and Cognac.
One of the many joys of my work is supervising the selection of the fine wines, spirits, and other beverages we serve in our restaurants and bars. I am always a hands-on leader and this is one area where I insist on being personally involved! The first part of my recent visit was to Reims, home to many of the world?s most famous Champagne houses. Reims is a lovely city, also famous for the imposing Notre-Dame de Reims, a beautiful cathedral and former coronation site for French kings. But make no mistake: Reims is in the Champagne region and you should go to there for its signature contribution to world wines.
I visited one of the great houses of the region, GH Mumm & Cie for a private lunch and dinner by their talented private chef, but anyone can tour their museum for a lesson on champagne and, of course, the illustrious history of this producer, which dates to the early 19th century. More impressively, you can view the chalk caves where the many millions of bottles of still wine mature into world-class champagne.
Cognac is another passion of mine and I was fortunate to also journey to the inimitable Martell Cognac house. The Chateau de Chanteloup is the spiritual home of the Martell brand (and formerly the residence of the Martell family). The Chateau is elegant, to be sure, and you will experience total relaxation while enjoying a good conversation in the beautifully designed rooms or strolling the well-manicured grounds. Of course, regular tastings of cognac from the world?s most experienced producer adds to the sense of ease. We enjoyed some of Martell?s signature cognacs, including one co-marketed with the cigar powerhouse Cohiba. A fine cigar paired with a fine cognac is a perfect way to cap a day of touring and dining. But there was also much work to do! We tasted incredible vintage cognacs from the chateau?s special collection. It was a delight to taste cognac from the year 1845 and then 1878?we sipped them separately at first and then blended them in the cellar for an amazingly complex and enjoyable taste. What an experience!
Besides enjoying the world?s best brandy, there are other diversions in the region. Cognac itself is a lovely medieval town with narrow cobblestone streets and interesting architecture?well worth a stroll between visits to the Grande Marque cognac houses. There is also a lovely river, which allows for boat tours to surrounding towns and villages.
If the frustrating Charles de Gaulle airport is France?s major transportation failure, surely the fantastic Train a Grande Vitesse, better known as the TGV, is one of its great successes. Travelling the country easy on the TGV is easy and, as the name suggests, fast. So, if you?re in Paris and want to explore the many wonderful destinations beyond the capital, I encourage you to go by train. Bon Voyage!
Deepak Ohri is CEO of lebua Hotels & Resorts. He can be reached at deepak@lebua.com