Ay, France
We spent part of day in Ay. We should have spent more time there.
Why?
Only five minutes from Epernay and 30 minutes from Reims, Ay sits at the foot of the Reims mountain, among the slopes of a UNESCO World Heritage vineyard. For wine drinkers, these vineyards are classified as 100% Grand Cru. Special.
A thousand years old, Ay-Champagne is renowned for its vineyards since the Gallo-Roman era.
We went to visit La Cite du Champagne, a museum. Keep in mind, this isn’t a normal museum. During the guided tour, we learned about the history of the revolt of winemakers in 1910 and 1911.
They were revolting against the poor quality of champagne supplies brought in from other countries. Some of the larger houses were thought to be creating inferior Champagnes. A few smaller Champagne houses and growers got together and burned down big Champagne houses in 1911.
Yes…they burned several during these riotous times.
After a tour of the underground limestone caves, our visit commenced with tasting the Champagnes unique to Champagne Collet.
Wandering around town, we discovered more about Ay.
Rene Lalique, born here in 1860, is known as one the greatest jewelers of all times as well as a master glassmaker. His style is instantly recognizable, having a major influence on the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements.
Female figures, flora, and fauna were his main sources of inspiration.
Perfumers sought out his designs for their bottles, cities asked for him to design and build their fountains, and car manufacturers wanted Lalique radiator caps.
His presence is felt throughout the town with statues, glass displays, and special street markers.
There is still more to Ay, France. We just haven’t discovered it yet.
Guess that means we will have to go back for another visit.