CELEBRATING THE ART OF DRINKING FRENCH
Wine tasting

The Drinking French Journal

Stories from the Vine

In-depth features, tasting notes, and dispatches from the vineyards, cellars, and bistros of France.

EDITOR'S PICK

Inside the Legendary Caves of Champagne: Where Bubbles Are Born
Wine

Inside the Legendary Caves of Champagne: Where Bubbles Are Born

Beneath the chalk hills of Épernay, millions of bottles rest in cathedral-like cellars, slowly transforming into the world's most celebrated wine. We went underground to find out why Champagne is unlike anything else on earth.

Sophie Marchand

Sophie Marchand

12 min read · September 1, 2026

OUR TEAM

The Contributors

Sophie Marchand

Sophie Marchand

Senior Wine Editor

Sophie has spent two decades tasting her way through France's finest cellars. A WSET Diploma holder, she writes with authority and warmth about Burgundy, Champagne, and everything in between.

120+ articles

Jean-Luc Renard

Jean-Luc Renard

Contributing Editor

Born in Bordeaux, Jean-Luc brings an insider's perspective to French wine culture. His writing on natural wine and emerging producers has earned him a devoted following.

85+ articles

Claire Dubois

Claire Dubois

Spirits Correspondent

Claire is France's foremost authority on Cognac and Armagnac. A former distillery manager turned writer, she brings unmatched technical knowledge to every glass.

60+ articles