What makes a good museum or why you should visit the Musée du vin de Champagne et d’Archeologie Régionale

Reopened after many years of refurbishment in May 2021, the Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology Museum in Epernay is dedicated to the remarkable heritage of the Champagne region, and its glamorous wine. It is conveniently located in the renovated Château Perrier on the world-famous Avenue de Champagne. I frankly think it is a rather fabulous place. I appreciated my first visit to an extent that I will gladly visit again. Why? Simply because it has three essential characteristics of a good modern museum.

It is engaging. Educational content, which is one of the main aims of any museum, is presented in an interactive and entertaining way. Apart from texts and videos, it provides other types of sensory content (smell, touch, hearing). For example, you get to smell the aromas of chardonnay and other grape varieties. Or you can glimpse inside a champagne bottle during disgorgement.

It is accessible. The content is adapted to different types of audience, offering things to do for every age and preference (adults, children, champagne amateurs and connoisseurs). Children will enjoy interactive exhibits and “open it” riddles.

Easy to follow progressive narrative. Instead of wandering aimlessly from one glass-encased artefact to another, you are invited to tune in to the story of why champagne is so unique – from geological and environmental phenomena to traditions and popular culture. By the end of your visit you will acquire essential knowledge about champagne without a strain.

It is aesthetically appealing. The Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology Museum is far from being one of those cluttered “curiosity cabinets” nobody wants to go to anymore. It has modern lighting, beautiful displays and spacious galleries.

Please share your impressions if you have visited the museum already. If you didn’t, I highly recommend you do!

Address & Opening hours :

Musée du vin de Champagne et d’Archeologie Régionale, Château Perrier, 13, avenue de Champagne, 51200 Épernay

The museum is open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. every day (except Tuesdays, 1 January, 1 May and 25 December)