Mid 20th century French champagne crate - Charles Heidsieck Reims, 20¾" x 13¾"

A mid 20th century French champagne shipping crate of generous scale, rectangular and open topped, in pale pine with a warm honeyed surface. The front panel bears bold black stenciled script reading Champagne Charles Heidsieck, Reims, France, with nailed plank construction and a simple board base.

The wood shows honest handling marks, spots of darkening and edge wear consistent with cellar use. Crates of this type served the grandes maisons of Reims and Épernay for transporting and storing bottles in the cave before cardboard replaced timber.

Maison Charles Heidsieck, founded in 1851 by Charles-Camille Heidsieck, built an international reputation for long-aged cuvées and meticulous Champenois savoir-faire, particularly in export markets. Stenciled branding allowed quick identification in crowded cellars and on rail platforms, and the straightforward typography here reflects the practical visual language of the French wine trade.

In a wine room or pantry it provides authentic storage for bottles, linens or glassware while adding quiet industrial charm.