Atlas de la France vinicole - Les vins de Champagne - Vignobles du Bar-Séquanais et du Bar-sur-Aubois 1944

The 1944 original map "Atlas de la France Vinicole – Les vins de Champagne – Vignobles du Bar-Séquanais et du Bar-sur-Aubois", created by Louis Larmat and printed by Dorel in Paris, is an exceptional cartographic representation of the Champagne wine-growing regions in the Bar-Séquanais and Bar-sur-Aubois areas. Part of Larmat’s comprehensive "Atlas de la France Vinicole", this map emphasizes the distinctive characteristics of these two viticultural zones, offering invaluable insights into the geographical and climatic factors that shape the wines of this less-known but historically rich part of Champagne.

Louis Larmat, renowned for his precision and dedication to capturing the terroir of France’s wine regions, produced this map as part of his extensive work in documenting the country’s diverse wine landscapes. His focus on the Vignobles du Bar-Séquanais et du Bar-sur-Aubois highlights an important region of Champagne, sometimes overshadowed by more famous areas like the Montagne de Reims or the Côte des Blancs, yet vital to the region’s history and production.

The Bar-Séquanais and Bar-sur-Aubois vineyards are located in the Aube department, a southern extension of the Champagne region. This area is distinct from the northern vineyards of Marne due to its geographical makeup and climate. The terroir here is characterized by Kimmeridgian marl, a type of limestone-rich soil also found in regions like Chablis, which gives the wines a unique mineral quality. Larmat’s map illustrates the undulating landscapes, hills, and valleys that define the Aube region, offering a detailed view of how these natural features contribute to the terroir.

In the Bar-sur-Aubois area, known for producing high-quality Pinot Noir, Larmat’s map highlights key wine-growing villages like Les Riceys, famous for its Rosé des Riceys, a rare still rosé wine produced in this part of Champagne. The climate here, slightly warmer than the northern part of Champagne, allows for a longer growing season, which is particularly beneficial for Pinot Noir. The map meticulously details the vineyards’ location, exposure to sunlight, and elevation, which are crucial factors in the development of the grape's character and the resulting wine.

The Bar-Séquanais region, also included on Larmat’s map, shares many similarities with Bar-sur-Aubois in terms of its soil composition and grape varieties. However, it is known for producing more balanced wines, often blending Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier. The map shows the proximity of these vineyards to the Seine River, which has a moderating influence on the local climate, helping to reduce the risk of frost and creating a more stable environment for vine growth.

Larmat’s attention to detail extends beyond just the geography. The map also provides a historical context for the Bar-Séquanais and Bar-sur-Aubois regions, illustrating their long-standing importance in Champagne’s winemaking tradition. Although less internationally renowned, the wines from this region are appreciated for their complexity and depth, often forming the backbone of blends used by larger Champagne houses.

This 1944 map was produced during the final stages of World War II, a time when France’s cultural and economic infrastructure was under strain. Despite these challenges, the production of this map highlights the enduring importance of Champagne and its vineyards to French identity. Louis Larmat's work, particularly this map of the Bar-Séquanais and Bar-sur-Aubois, stands as a testament to France’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its wine heritage, even during difficult times.

Beyond its utility as a viticultural reference, the map is also an artistic achievement. The finely crafted typography, subtle use of color, and intricate detailing of the landscape make it a decorative piece that appeals to both wine lovers and collectors of fine cartographic works. The map serves not only as a practical guide to understanding the specific terroirs of these Champagne sub-regions but also as a celebration of the rich cultural and historical significance of French winemaking.

The 1944 map "Vignobles du Bar-Séquanais et du Bar-sur-Aubois", from Larmat’s Atlas de la France Vinicole and printed by Dorel in Paris, offers an invaluable glimpse into a lesser-known yet vital part of the Champagne region. Through Larmat’s careful attention to the geographical and historical details, the map captures the essence of these sub-regions, showcasing the interplay between soil, climate, and tradition that defines the wines produced here. For collectors, wine enthusiasts, and historians alike, this map remains a valuable artifact that illuminates the complexity and diversity of France’s most famous wine region.

Original Poster

Alcohol - Map - Marne - France

Dorel - Paris

Good condition, original folds, two small tears