ABOUT US
Our History
The OCC was founded in 1656 by young aristocrats at the Court of King Louis XIV. Initially known as the “3 hillsides” and then as “Ordre des Coteaux” - because the young men were said to have drunk champagne on the hillsides of Ay, Avenay and Hautvillers.​
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The Ordre celebrates Champagne for its unique features, ways of consumption and everything which contributes to its reputation and image as the most prestigious symbol of success and celebration.
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Our fraternity consists of professionals and champagne lovers. The Order is led by the Commandeur and the Conseil Chapitral based in Reims, France .
The Significance of the Emblem
The 3 circles on one side of the medallion represent the first 3 hillsides that produced wine in Champagne, namely, Ay, Avenay and Hautvillers.
Hence the name Ordre des Coteaux - Coteaux meaning hillside in French.
The other 3 circles across from the Pomponne represent the 3 main grape varieties found in Champagne:
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.
The
Pomponne
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The Pomponne was the first ever champagne glass produced. It was produced in the 17th Century. It is small and has no base because even at that time champagne was drunk chilled. The Pomponne was made without a base so that it could not be put down and hence its contents were drunk quickly.
The Ranks
​​​The 3 ranks which may be conferred upon members are:
Chevalier > Officier > Chambellan
Each appointment and promotion must be approved by the Conseil Chapitral.
​Image Credits: https://www.champagnenorth.com