Racine
Restaurant
Reims, France
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Photo credit to Kazuyuki Tanaka. -
Racine Wine List
About Racine
Executive chef, Kazuyuki Tanaka, and his sommelier wife, Marine, have created a lovely fusion between Japan and France for the concept of Racine. The restaurant’s reputation of technical mastery, with a menu of almost surgical precision and meticulously sourced Champagnes to match, has earned them cult status amongst those who know.
Racine is a two-star Michelin wonder located in the heart of Reims and is always in demand. It is tiny – seating just 14 people – which adds even more exclusivity to securing your seat at the table. Book well in advance and be rewarded with a wine list that is unique by design. When it comes to Champagne, the restaurant does not work with Maisons – only growers that ‘evoke special emotions and are consistent with the freshness of the chef’s dishes.’ Sommelier, Marine Tanaka, says that their wine program provides reference to classic wines but also ones that are emerging. To this end ‘discovery’ wines from young producers are actively sought after to highlight with gastronomy. Innovative world wines are also given prominence.
A good spread of different Champagnes are represented by growing area and village, then by producer. Other wines of France include an impressive list from the top-end of Burgundy’s Vosne Romanée, Nuits-St-Georges and Chambertin, followed by others from around the world. Germany, Italy, the United States and even Australia are featured. Moreover, there’s an entire page dedicated to Japanese Saké. Special experiences include food and champagne pairing to discover the dynamics of Champagne’s terroir which includes Coteaux Champenois. Also, the restaurant says that pairing rosé Champagnes with more Chardonnay can actually work beautifully with Wagyu beef featured on the menu.
Finding your place at the table of Racine is worth traversing its holy grail.
Racine awards
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2 Michelin Stars
Bistro des anges
