Disclosure: This site contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.
The Statue of Dom Perignon stands proudly in the courtyard of the Moët & Chandon headquarters on the prestigious Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, France. This bronze monument pays tribute to the Benedictine monk who is famously, though somewhat mythologically, credited with inventing the traditional method of making sparkling wine. Commissioned to honor his legacy, the statue depicts Dom Perignon holding a bottle of champagne, symbolizing his profound impact on the region's viticultural history. Visitors strolling down the UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne frequently stop at this iconic landmark for photographs before embarking on cellar tours. While viewing the statue takes only a few minutes, it serves as a perfect starting point for exploring the surrounding opulent champagne houses and their extensive underground cellars. The site is freely accessible year-round, offering a tangible connection to the rich heritage of the Champagne region.
The Statue of Dom Perignon is more than just a bronze figure; it is the symbolic heart of Épernay's Avenue de Champagne. Sculpted to honor the Benedictine monk Pierre Pérignon, the monument captures him in his traditional robes, holding a bottle of the sparkling wine that would eventually make this region world-famous. While historical records show that Dom Perignon did not actually invent champagne—British scientists had documented the addition of sugar to create bubbles years earlier—his meticulous work in blending grapes, introducing corks, and using thicker glass bottles fundamentally transformed the quality of the wine.
Today, the statue serves as a pilgrimage site for oenophiles from around the globe. Situated in the elegant courtyard of Moët & Chandon, it provides a stunning photo opportunity against the backdrop of 19th-century French architecture. Visitors typically spend a few minutes admiring the craftsmanship of the statue before venturing into the hundreds of kilometers of chalk cellars that tunnel beneath their feet, making it a brief but essential stop on any Champagne itinerary.
The Statue of Dom Perignon is easily accessible on foot from anywhere in central Épernay. It is located just a 10-minute walk from the Épernay train station, which connects directly to Paris and Reims. Once on the Avenue de Champagne, walking is the best way to get around, as the area is highly pedestrian-friendly and the champagne houses are situated close to one another.
The Statue of Dom Perignon and the surrounding Avenue de Champagne offer varying levels of engagement depending on age.
Did you know that the famous quote attributed to Dom Perignon upon tasting his first sparkling wine—'Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!'—was actually first used in a print advertisement in the late 19th century, long after his death?
The best time to visit the Statue of Dom Perignon and the surrounding Avenue de Champagne is between May and October, when the weather is mild and the vineyards are lush.
Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.
The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.
No internet needed • Includes local translations • Free for TravelingWiz readers
The Statue of Dom Perignon itself is a completely free public attraction, making it a budget-friendly stop, though the surrounding Avenue de Champagne is known for premium wine tasting experiences. With TravelingWiz's Human Verified data, a typical traveler should expect to spend around $150 USD per day for a mid-range trip in Épernay, factoring in meals, local transport, and a standard cellar tour. A simple coffee nearby might cost $4, while a basic champagne tasting starts around $25. Click the Trip Cost Calculator button below the table to work out your personal budget for this trip.
Per person, per day – pocket cash for small purchases.
Full daily spend estimation (accommodation, food, transportation, attractions).
Travel Style | Euro (EUR) | ≈ USD ($) |
|---|---|---|
Budget | 80 | 88 |
Mid-range | 136 | 150 |
Comfort | 300 | 330 |
The Prices, Daily costs, and calculator results are estimates for planning purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on season, booking timing, personal spending habits, and currency fluctuations. TravelingWiz cannot be held responsible for discrepancies between these estimates and your final trip expenses.
Discover cooking classes, tastings and local food tours
Logistics shouldn’t be the focus of your trip—the experience should. I’ve hand-vetted these essential partners to ensure your arrival, stay, and exploration are as smooth as an Athenian breeze.
From boutique hotels to local apartments—compare thousands of options and find the perfect stay in the best neighborhood.
Getting there should be seamless. Compare the best routes and prices across top airlines to start your journey on the right note.
Connect with experts who know the destination best. Get personalized advice and insider tips to help you plan your perfect trip.
The “Engineer’s” rule: always have a backup. Secure your trip with a plan that covers every “what if” and unexpected change.
Explore at your own pace with total freedom. Compare reliable rental options and find the right vehicle for your adventure.
Don’t let paperwork slow you down. Get expert assistance with your application to ensure all your entry documents are in order.
Check out our related articles and blog posts to learn even more about the destination.
Share with your friends and family
Buy a compatible power adapter for your trip