Atlas de la France vinicole - Les vins de Champagne - Montagne de Reims & Vallée de l'Ardre 1944

The 1944 original map "Atlas de la France Vinicole – Les vins de Champagne – Montagne de Reims & Vallée de l'Ardre", created by Louis Larmat and printed by Dorel in Paris, is an exquisite piece of cartography that showcases the viticultural treasures of the Champagne region. This map forms part of Larmat’s renowned "Atlas de la France Vinicole", which meticulously details the key wine-producing areas of France. Focusing on two distinct sub-regions—Montagne de Reims and Vallée de l'Ardre—this map is not only a valuable tool for understanding Champagne's geography but also a work of art admired by collectors and wine enthusiasts alike.

Louis Larmat, a highly respected French cartographer and oenologist, was known for his precision in mapping France’s most esteemed wine regions. His work in creating the "Atlas de la France Vinicole" revolutionized the understanding of French terroir by offering visual representations of how soil, geography, and climate interact to produce exceptional wines. The Montagne de Reims & Vallée de l'Ardre map is one of his most significant contributions, illustrating these two Champagne sub-regions in great detail and highlighting their unique characteristics.

The Montagne de Reims is one of Champagne's most celebrated sub-regions, renowned for its robust Pinot Noir grapes. Located between Reims and Épernay, this area consists of a forested plateau surrounded by vineyards, which are marked for their dramatic topography. Larmat’s map details the specific slopes and elevation changes that define the Montagne de Reims, illustrating how these geographical features influence the ripening of the grapes and ultimately, the profile of the wine.

The map identifies key villages such as Verzy, Verzenay, Mailly-Champagne, Ambonnay, and Bouzy, all of which are famous for producing Pinot Noir that forms the backbone of many prestigious Champagne blends. The south-facing slopes of these villages are particularly important, as they provide the vines with optimal sun exposure, contributing to the full-bodied, powerful character of the wines. Larmat’s attention to the landscape’s contours, indicated through fine shading and elevation markings, helps the viewer understand why the Montagne de Reims is so well-suited for growing high-quality Pinot Noir.

The Vallée de l'Ardre is a lesser-known but equally fascinating sub-region of Champagne, located west of Reims. This area is characterized by its meandering river, the Ardre, which has a moderating effect on the local climate. Larmat’s map shows how the valley’s vineyards benefit from the river’s proximity, which helps regulate temperatures and reduces the risk of frost during the growing season. The Vallée de l'Ardre is home to a mix of grape varieties, including Pinot Meunier, which thrives in the cooler, damper conditions of the valley.

Villages like Crugny, Faverolles-et-Coëmy, and Savigny-sur-Ardre are highlighted on the map, each contributing to the region’s distinct Champagne style. While not as famous as the Montagne de Reims or the Côte des Blancs, the wines from the Vallée de l'Ardre are appreciated for their freshness and fruit-forward characteristics, often adding complexity to Champagne blends.

Larmat’s map of Montagne de Reims & Vallée de l'Ardre offers a detailed look at the terroir that makes these regions so special. In the Montagne de Reims, the chalky subsoil, characteristic of much of the Champagne region, is particularly prominent, providing excellent drainage for the vineyards and contributing to the minerality that Champagne wines are known for. The map shows how the topography, with its rolling hills and steep slopes, creates microclimates that are essential for producing wines with depth and complexity.

In contrast, the Vallée de l'Ardre has more clay and sandy soils, which are well-suited to growing Pinot Meunier. This variety tends to ripen earlier than Pinot Noir, making it less vulnerable to the challenges posed by the region’s sometimes harsh climate. The wines from the Vallée de l'Ardre tend to be softer and more approachable in their youth, often exhibiting bright fruit flavors and a rounder texture.

Produced during the final year of World War II, this 1944 map is historically significant. Despite the disruptions of the war, France’s dedication to documenting and preserving its wine heritage remained steadfast. Larmat’s work serves as a reminder of the importance of viticulture in France’s cultural identity, even during times of adversity. The map not only serves a practical purpose but also stands as a symbol of resilience and pride in France’s winemaking traditions.

From an artistic perspective, the map is a masterpiece of French cartographic design. The fine typography, carefully drawn lines, and subtle use of color all contribute to its visual appeal. It is both a functional document and a decorative piece that reflects the elegance and complexity of the Champagne region.

The 1944 map "Montagne de Reims & Vallée de l'Ardre" from Larmat’s Atlas de la France Vinicole, printed by Dorel in Paris, is an invaluable resource for understanding the geographical and viticultural diversity of the Champagne region. The map showcases two distinct sub-regions that play a crucial role in the production of some of the world’s finest wines. For wine enthusiasts, collectors, and historians alike, this map is a treasured artifact that combines beauty, precision, and historical significance. Through its detailed representation of the terroirs, it offers deep insights into the characteristics that make the wines of Montagne de Reims and Vallée de l'Ardre so unique.

Original Poster

Alcohol - Map - Marne - France

Écueil Vineyard, Sacy, Villedommange les Mesneux 

Dorel - Paris

Good condition, original folds