We Spent the Day in Champagne

Champagne is a region of France about an hour south of Paris where Dom
Perignon Champagne is produced. Only wines from this region can
officially be called Champagne.

We got up early and took a first class high speed train out of town.
Yesterday we were overwhelmed with all the tourists in Paris - and at
the Versaille Palace. We needed a quiet interlude in the country at
the little town of Epernay. As we cruised along at over 100 mph -
fields of vineyards flew by in a blur. Along the way we passed through
Chateau Thierry - where the battle of Belleau Woods was fought during
World War One. The train stopped there for a few moments and we were
able to photograph the giant war memorial on the top of the hill. A
French fellow proudly reminded me that this battle was decisively won
when John Pershing led the American Expeditionary Forces into the war
in 1918.

In another 1/2 hour we were at Epernay. Folks say, "Don't judge France
by visiting Paris," and this proved very true thanks to Epernay. After
waiting in line two hours the day before at Versailles - it was
refreshing being immediately seated at a sidewalk cafe and choosing a
very nice lunch from a reasonable menu.

After lunch it was a short walk to the Moet and Chandon Winery where
Dom Perignon Champagne is made. During the tour we walked through some
of the 18 miles of underground tunnels where the wine is aged in
perfect 50 degree temperature all year around. After the tour - we
were served several bottles of white and pink champagne - while still
underground. The only thing that could pry our group from the serving
area was the sound of our train whistle signaling that it was 4:30 and
time to head back to Paris.

Whether it was the sunny breezy day - the quiet beautiful country town
- the first class train - the immaculate winery - or the unlimited
supply of champagne - this was easily the top side trip for most of
our group. The first half of the trip home was mainly the excited
babble of the young ladies reviewing the wines followed by a second
half of deep sleep - only to be awakened by the lights and sounds of
Paris on the Eve of Bastille Day. Our hotel faces the square where the
Bastille once stood. All that remains is a towering obelisk and
tonight a party that extends all the way through tomorrow.

What a difference a day makes - we have all fallen back in love with
France.