Atlas de la France vinicole - Les vins de Champagne - Montagne de Reims 1944

The 1944 original map "Atlas de la France Vinicole – Les vins de Champagne – Montagne de Reims" by Louis Larmat is an exquisite piece of cartography that reflects both the history and artistry of French wine culture. Published as part of the broader "Atlas de la France Vinicole", this map specifically focuses on the Montagne de Reims, one of the most prestigious regions within Champagne known for producing some of the finest sparkling wines in the world. The map was printed by Dorel in Paris and stands as a testament to the golden age of French wine mapping.

Louis Larmat was a celebrated French cartographer who created a series of wine atlases, which remain iconic references in the world of oenology (the study of wines) and viticulture. His work, produced between the 1940s and the 1950s, sought to chart France’s rich viticultural landscape in unparalleled detail, visually capturing the geographic, climatic, and topographic conditions that shape the character of each region's wines.

The Montagne de Reims is renowned for its vineyards planted with Pinot Noir grapes, which contribute to the robust and structured profiles of the region's champagnes. Larmat's map of this region is more than just a geographical representation; it is a work of art that conveys the delicate relationship between the land, the climate, and the production of world-class champagne. The Montagne de Reims includes famous villages like Verzenay, Ambonnay, Bouzy, and Verzy, all noted for their exceptional vineyards.

Larmat's maps were not simply utilitarian; they were designed to be beautiful objects in their own right. The 1944 map showcases elegant typography, precise hand-drawn lines, and delicate coloring, emphasizing the contours of the land and the divisions between the different vineyards and appellations. Each wine-producing area is highlighted, allowing the viewer to see the intricate patchwork of terroirs (wine-growing regions) that make Champagne such a unique and celebrated wine region.

The map also includes topographic details, such as elevation and soil types, which are crucial to understanding the characteristics of the wines produced in the Montagne de Reims. The soil composition of the region, rich in chalk, is a critical factor in the production of Champagne, as it contributes to the minerality and freshness that are hallmarks of the wine.

Larmat’s "Atlas de la France Vinicole" series, of which this map is a part, became a valuable tool for wine professionals and enthusiasts. It helped to codify the geographic distinctions between France’s numerous wine regions at a time when the concept of terroir was gaining increasing importance. This map, focused on Champagne, was particularly significant as Champagne had already established itself as a luxury product known worldwide for its elegance and celebration.

Printed in Paris by Dorel in the midst of World War II, the map also holds historical significance beyond its oenological value. Despite the hardships faced during the war, the French cultural heritage, especially in regards to wine, remained a point of national pride. This map, produced in 1944, near the end of the war, stands as a symbol of resilience, as the wine industry continued to persevere through challenging times.

Today, Larmat’s wine maps are highly regarded by collectors, historians, and wine lovers alike. They not only serve as educational tools but also as beautiful representations of France's vinous heritage. The "Les vins de Champagne – Montagne de Reims" map is particularly sought after due to Champagne’s enduring reputation as the home of the world's finest sparkling wines.

For collectors and connoisseurs, this map offers a glimpse into the terroir that defines Champagne’s Montagne de Reims, while also serving as a work of art that reflects the elegance and precision of mid-20th-century French cartography. Whether displayed as a historical piece or used as a reference by wine enthusiasts, the 1944 original map by Louis Larmat remains a timeless symbol of France's unparalleled wine culture.

Original Poster

Alcohol - Map - Marne - France

Éperon de Bouzy

Dorel - Paris

Good condition, original folds