Mathieu Roland-Billecart’s connection to Champagne runs as deep as the chalk cellars that cradle his family’s renowned bottles.
Raised amid the vineyards of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, he absorbed the terroir of the region and the legacy of Champagne Billecart-Salmon, the champagne house founded by his ancestors in 1818. “This is where I grew up, this is where my family is, this is where my childhood friends are,” he said. “Champagne is a key part of my own identity, and I am glad to be an active part of our region and its culture.”
Taking over the management of the family house in 2017, the CEO stewards not just a brand, but a tradition of elegance and precision that has captivated connoisseurs worldwide.
For this special edition of “Express Check-In,” we caught up with Roland-Billecart as he was preparing to visit Monaco for Forbes Travel Guide annual Summit — the exclusive conference where travel and luxury meet — from February 25 to 28. He shared his insider perspective on the Champagne region, his favorite bottle and what he anticipates most at the upcoming Summit.
What are you looking forward to at The Summit in Monaco?
Meeting new people in the industry who share the same values and have the same desire to create truly luxurious experience for their guests and partners.
Why do you enjoy visiting Monaco?
Monaco is where many lovers of the finest things in life live or travel to. They know what true luxury is, and we have had friends for many years there who like Billecart-Salmon for its quality and authenticity.
What are Champagne’s must-visit attractions?
I would say a drive around the vineyard is the No. 1 must. You can’t have come all this way without knowing where your bubbles come from.
What are the best under-the-radar activities in Champagne?
The real activity of champagne-making happens in the little villages in and around the vineyards. If you want to experience what Champagne really is, this is where you should go. A few have good local restaurants, so it is definitely worth a walk around.
What are can’t-miss restaurants in Champagne?
We are very fortunate to have one of the best gastronomic scenes in France, so the list is long. For the best of the best, you have to try l’Assiette Champenoise, Les Crayères, Le Royal Champagne or Arbane.
What’s one dish everyone should try in Champagne?
The langoustine from chef Arnaud Lallement in l’Assiette Champenoise, preferably with a glass of vintage blanc de blancs.
Beyond champagne, what other local products or specialties should visitors try?
Le jambon de Reims (Reims ham) or the biscuit rose (dry pink biscuit) are some of the local delicacies and also a range of cheese, like Chaource.
You can also try wines and related Champagne products such a Ratafia (fortified wine) or coteaux champenois (local still red or white wine).
Aside from the famous vineyards, are there any hidden natural wonders or scenic spots in the region?
Champagne has one of France’s largest forests — Parc Naturel Regional de la Montagne de Reims — and it is worth going to visit Les Faux de Verzy with over 500-year-old trees that have quite an unusual shape.
Are there any special cultural experiences or historical sites in the region?
The Reims Cathédral — where the French kings used to be crowned — is a must-visit for a bit of history, and avenue du Champagne where some of the big producers have their HQ.
What are the best souvenirs to bring home from Champagne?
Your favorite bottle of Champagne, of course.
Where’s the best place to go shopping in Champagne?
Reims is the only city that offers a shopping experience in the region.
Are there any villages that you find especially charming?
Hautvillers is a very pretty and well-known village. Careful though, as it is very popular with visitors, so it’s best to go early.
Where can you find nightlife in Champagne?
Nightlife is not our region’s strongest point, but if you are in Reims, I recommend Le Clos near the market.
What are the best ways to explore the vineyards and landscapes of Champagne?
To get the full experience, you really need a car — preferably with a driver — as Champagne is quite spread out, and a lot of the most beautiful and interesting things to see are in the little villages.
What is the best time of year to visit Champagne?
Everything is open all year round, but it is warmer and most beautiful from April to October.
What’s one mistake that travelers often make when visiting Champagne?
Thinking that champagne is made mostly in Reims or Épernay.
What is your favorite food to pair with champagne?
I like the classics. You can never get it wrong with champagne and seafood and, of course, caviar.
What are some unexpected food pairings that work well with champagne?
I love rosé champagne with a homemade pizza.
If you could only drink one champagne for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Billecart-Salmon Le Sous Bois.
For people looking to invest in champagne, what advice would you offer? Are there certain vintages, producers or styles they should look for?
Historically, too much of the investment activity has been focused on labels and brand notoriety rather than wine quality, and I think that’s a mistake.
I recommend following or investing in the producer(s) that you like drinking the wine of instead of a specific vintage or style. Other than that, only invest in vintage/prestige champagne and be prepared to drink the bottle — that way there is never a real downside.
