Château de la Marquetterie, Wine estate château in Pierry, France
The Château de la Marquetterie is a wine estate near Épernay built in 18th-century style with architectural elements reflecting Louis XV aesthetics. Surrounding the main building are vineyards and underground cellars dedicated to champagne production.
The estate originated in the 18th century and gained strategic importance when it served as a command center during World War I. Pierre-Charles Taittinger purchased the property in 1932, transforming it into an active champagne producer.
The name Les Folies de la Marquetterie comes from the vineyard on the hillside beside the château, once worked by Brother Oudart, one of the fathers of champagne. Taittinger still makes a champagne of that name from 45% chardonnay and 55% pinot noir, vinified in barrels and aged five years, presented as a tribute to the 18th century.
Visitors can explore the vineyards and cellars on guided tours to understand how champagne is made. Comfortable footwear is advisable since the tour covers both above-ground and underground sections.
The original vineyard beside the château was named Les Folies de la Marquetterie and was managed by Brother Oudart, who contributed to early champagne methods. This connection reveals how religious communities influenced the region's winemaking traditions.
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