Pressoria is more than just a museum- it’s a meticulously crafted cultural facility that showcases Champagne
This report written and posted by journalist/publisher Axel Ritenis who visited Reims, Ay and the Champagne region during the september harvest
15 september,2025
Pressoria, is more than just a museum; it’s a meticulously crafted cultural facility that serves as a modern showcase for the entire Champagne region. Located in the commune of Aÿ-Champagne, this immersive exhibition has a fascinating history and a strong network of support.
The Exhibition and Its Purpose
The permanent exhibition at Pressoria is a sensory and interactive journey that guides visitors through the complete story of champagne. The displays are designed to appeal to all ages and levels of knowledge, from novices to connoisseurs. The tour covers everything from the geological origins of the region’s chalky soil to the precise work of the winegrowers and the final stages of bottling and tasting.
The experience is praised for its use of state-of-the-art technology, including touchscreen displays and immersive rooms that bring the science and history of champagne to life. The exhibition is designed to stimulate all five senses, allowing visitors to see, touch, hear, smell, and finally taste the essence of Champagne. It also has a restaurant, a concept store, and spaces for temporary exhibitions and workshops.
Why Pressoria is a Must-Visit
Pressoria is a fantastic alternative to visiting a single champagne house, as it provides a broad and comprehensive understanding of the entire region and its wines. It’s highly rated by visitors for its informative and engaging approach, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and those new to the world of champagne. The facility is also accessible to people with reduced mobility and offers different ticket options, including family and group rates.
The Pressoria self-guided tour is a highly interactive and sensory experience designed to educate visitors about champagne production in a fun and engaging way. The tour, which typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours, is structured to awaken all five senses and provides a comprehensive journey from the earth to the bottle.
Here is what you can expect to see and do during the tour:
1. The Terroir: The Story from the Ground Up
The tour begins by focusing on the foundation of champagne: its unique terroir. Interactive exhibits explain the geological history of the region, specifically the chalky subsoil, which is crucial for the vines. Visitors can see and touch different soil samples and learn how the climate and geography of Champagne have shaped its history and its wines.
2. The Vineyards: The Life of the Vine
This part of the exhibition dives into the life cycle of the vine. You can learn about the different grape varieties used in the Champagne appellation—from the traditional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Meunier to the four older, lesser-known varieties. A special educational garden allows you to see these vines up close, helping you understand their growth and structure. Interactive displays explain the work of the winegrower throughout the year.
3. The Harvest and Pressing: Bringing the Grapes to Life
The tour brings the crucial harvest and pressing stages to life. The historic Pommery pressing center, where Pressoria is housed, is a central part of this section. Visitors can learn about the traditional methods of grape picking and pressing, with some exhibits featuring projection-mapped installations that animate the old machinery.
4. The Cellars: Effervescence and Elaboration
This is where the magic of champagne production is revealed. Exhibits detail the processes of fermentation, aging, and bottling. A highlight of the tour is a captivating 360-degree immersive room dedicated to “effervescence.” In this space, you’re transported inside a bottle, surrounded by a show of light and sound that celebrates the bubbles themselves. The experience is designed to be playful and cinematic, letting you “create your own bubble by touching the walls.”
5. The Tasting: The Sensory Culmination
The tour concludes with a commented tasting of two different champagnes (or grape juices) on a stunning terrace. This is the moment where everything you’ve learned comes together as you engage your sense of taste. The terrace offers a breathtaking view of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed vineyards, providing a perfect backdrop to savor the final product. The champagnes on offer are rotated every two months to showcase the diversity of the region’s wines.
In addition to the main tour, your ticket also grants you access to temporary exhibitions and a concept store, which features various champagne-related items. The entire experience is designed to be accessible to everyone, from children and novices to wine experts, making it a perfect and educational outing for all.
Key Supporters and Collaborators
Pressoria is a strategic project for the Champagne region, and its realization was a long-term effort supported by various entities. The project was spearheaded by the Communauté de Communes de la Grande Vallée de la Marne (CCGVM), which has been a driving force behind the initiative for over a decade.
Key collaborators who brought the vision to life include:
- Architects: Atelier Philéas, which was responsible for the architectural restoration of the 1902 building and its integration with the surrounding landscape.
- Scenography: The London-based design studio Casson Mann created the exhibition’s scenography, focusing on a “sensory, poetic and engaging” visitor experience.
- Multimedia Production: Theoriz and Drôle de trame were responsible for the interactive and immersive multimedia content, including films and other audiovisual elements.
The project also received significant financial backing. A sponsorship campaign led by the Champagne-Ardenne Heritage Foundation successfully raised hundreds of thousands of euros. Additionally, the Vranken-Pommery group, which once owned the building, and Champagne Henri Giraud, an important house in Aÿ, are noted as major patrons, showcasing the strong community support for this cultural landmark. The entire project cost approximately 7.31 million euros.
By bringing together public funding, private sponsorship, and creative talent, Pressoria has become a globally recognized and award-winning wine tourism destination. It has been honored with multiple awards, including the Terre de Vins Trophées de l’Œnotourisme Award and the Les Rubans du Patrimoine Award.
