Epernay is unofficially known as the ‘Capital of Champagne’ thanks to its abundance of Champagne Houses, it is located in the heart of the vineyards. It lies on the left bank of the Marne River, 17 miles (27 km) south-southwest of Reims. Epernay is the main center for bottling, storing, and selling the wines of the Champagne region. The Champagne terroir has two major distinguishing features: northerly latitude and a dual climate that is subject to oceanic and continental influences alike. Another key feature of the Champagne terroir is its predominantly limestone subsoil, which keeps the vines naturally watered all year round. The undulating to moderately steep terrain in Champagne creates ideal vineyard sites, combining good drainage with optimum exposure to the sun.