The name "Champagne pouilleuse" derives from the region's historical poverty. This term, which may seem pejorative, reflects the difficult conditions that once prevailed in this area. The chalky limestone soil, a legacy of the Cretaceous era, made traditional farming almost impossible. Only sheep farming was practiced, which helped shape the local landscape and economy for centuries.
The word "pouilleux" refers to the misery and poverty that characterized this region. Interestingly, however, some historians attribute the name to the abundant presence of spearmint, a perennial plant that grew on the chalky ridges known as "savarts". This interpretation offers a more nuanced perspective on the origin of the name.
Despite its difficult past, Champagne pouilleuse has undergone a remarkable transformation over time. The introduction of fertilizers and the evolution of farming practices have enabled this land once considered barren to become a productive agricultural area, rivaling fertile regions such as Brie and Beauce.