In 1734, Jacques Furne, a seller of champagne wines, founded a company that would later be named “Taittnger.” He dealt in wines produced in the early 18th century by Benedictine abbeys in Hautvillers, Pierry, Verzy, and Saint-Nicaise in Reims, which owned the best vineyards in Champagne. They grew vines and produced sparkling wines. The company of Jacques Furne prospered throughout the 19th century. After World War I, the company acquired a 12th‑century residence, the so‑called “House of the Counts of Champagne.” This was the house of Thibo IV, a famous feudal lord of France during the reign of Louis IX. Thibo IV brought vine cuttings from Kerra (Kirra) that were ancestors of the present Chardonnay. He was also known as a poet and musician, for which he received the nickname “Thibo the Minstrel” (or similar). His muse was Balinestress (?) queen of France, wife of Louis IX. Fleeing from unhappy love, Thibo IV left France and joined a crusade to the Holy Land. On the return journey, Thibo IV brought vine cuttings from Kirra that were ancestors of Chardonnay, and it was Pierre who decided that Chardonnay would dominate the Taittinger brand, bringing lightness, elegance, and a variety of aromas. Wines produced by the House of Taittinger quickly gained the status of great wines. On the label of every bottle sits the coat of arms of Thibo IV. Today the House of Taittinger is one of the greatest names in Champagne. The House’s products are exported to more than 100 countries, symbolizing luxury and prestige.