Reims: Veuve Clicquot and Family-Run Winery Day Tour & Lunch

The Reims: Veuve Clicquot and Family-Run Winery Day Tour & Lunch offers a comprehensive dive into the world of Champagne, perfect for those eager to see both the iconic houses and intimate vineyards of France’s celebrated region. At $386 per person and lasting 7.5 hours, this small-group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. With 9 Champagne tastings, visits to famous cellars and family-run estates, plus a traditional lunch paired with Champagne, this tour balances history, craftsmanship, and delicious food.

Starting either in Epernay or Reims, the tour guarantees a smooth and well-organized day. The guides are knowledgeable, and reviews highlight their passion and ability to make complex topics engaging. While the price may seem high, the inclusion of entrance fees, tastings at multiple venues, and a local, expertly guided experience make it a worthwhile choice for anyone serious about understanding Champagne beyond just a drink.

Key Points

• Visit of Veuve Clicquot cellars with 4 tastings included
• Drive along the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay and explore Hautvillers
• Tour a family-run Champagne estate for an insider look at craft production
• Enjoy a traditional lunch paired with Champagne at a winery
• Participate in a fun, educational Champagne tasting session
• Total of 9 Champagne tastings across different venues
• Tours depart from Epernay or Reims with small groups limited to 8 people

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Discovering Veuve Clicquot in the Heart of Reims

The tour begins with a guided visit to the Veuve Clicquot cellars, a name synonymous with prestige in Champagne. The visit lasts about 1.5 hours and includes a look into the historic cellars, where the iconic Champagne house matures its cuvées. At the end, you sample 4 unique cuvées, experiencing a variety of flavors and styles. If Veuve Clicquot isn’t available, the tour replaces it with another top-tier Champagne house, maintaining the high standard of the experience.

This visit is both informative and visually impressive, with walls of Champagne bottles and underground tunnels creating a unique environment. The expert guides share insights into the Champagne production process, history, and secrets behind the brand’s success, making it a highlight for fans or newcomers alike.

Strolling through Hautvillers and Its Breathtaking Vistas

Following Veuve Clicquot, the tour takes members to Hautvillers, the picture-perfect village famous for being the resting place of Dom Pérignon. The walk through this charming village offers a glimpse into its history and significance. Visitors also enjoy a viewpoint overlooking UNESCO World Heritage vineyards, perfect for photos and appreciating the stunning landscape.

The town’s small streets and traditional architecture add to the authentic Champagne experience. This stop provides a relaxed moment for reflection, photos, and soaking in the scenery. It’s a favorite among reviewers for the peaceful atmosphere and picturesque views.

Touring a Family-Run Champagne Estate

Midday, the tour shifts to Aÿ-Champagne, where a small, family-owned Champagne house opens its doors for a visit. Here, you gain an insider’s perspective on smaller-scale production and craftsmanship that differs from the large Champagne houses. The guide explains their unique winemaking methods, emphasizing the personal touch they bring to each bottle.

This stop garners praise for its intimate atmosphere, authenticity, and the chance to see how Champagne is made on a smaller farm. Tasting at this estate includes additional glasses, bringing the total to 9 tastings across the day.

A Traditional Lunch Paired with Champagne Excellence

The tour includes a lunch at a family-owned winery, where the setting is cozy and welcoming. The meal is carefully paired with a selection of Champagnes, highlighting how food and wine enhance each other. Dietary restrictions and allergies are accommodated upon request, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.

The lunch duration is approximately 105 minutes, giving enough time to relax and savor the flavors. Many reviews mention the delicious food and the quality of the Champagne pairings as a memorable part of the day.

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Exploring Hautvillers’ Historic Monasteries and Cellars

After lunch, the tour leads to Hautvillers once again for a guided visit. This time, the focus is on its monastery and its historic connection to Champagne’s development. The guide discusses Dom Pérignon’s influence, adding depth to the sightseeing.

This stop lasts about 45 minutes and features a guided tour of the church and monastery ruins. Visitors also enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards from this elevated position, making it a peaceful and scenic conclusion to the visit.

Visiting a Micro Champagne Producer in Marne

The last stop takes place at a micro Champagne house in Marne, where the focus is on small-batch production. The guide explains their unique processes and what makes their Champagne special. The tasting here includes additional glasses, rounding out the total to 9 tastings.

This venue provides a different perspective from the larger houses, showcasing craftsmanship and innovation in Champagne making. The tasting experience here is praised for its personalized attention and high-quality wines.

Logistics: From Meeting Points to Comfort

The tour starts at either the tourist office in Epernay or Reims Central Train Station. The transport is by air-conditioned minivan, and the entire day is paced comfortably, with short drives between stops. The group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized guidance and interaction.

The tour concludes around 4:45 PM in Epernay or 5:30 PM in Reims, returning to the original meeting points. With small groups and expert guides, the experience feels intimate and engaging, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Timing, Pacing, and Practical Tips

The 7.5-hour itinerary balances sightseeing, tasting, and relaxation. The timing allows for ample tastings and visits without feeling rushed. Since the cellars are at about 10°C, bringing a jacket is recommended. The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years, and animals are not allowed for the comfort of all participants.

Booking train tickets in advance is advisable, as the tour relies on train stations for pickup. While lunch and tastings are included, additional food and drinks outside the itinerary are not.

Whether This Tour Fits Your Champagne Curiosity

This experience caters well to those interested in both famous Champagne houses and small, family-run wineries. The educational component and tastings make it a hit for serious wine fans, and the scenic stops provide lovely photo opportunities. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the expert guides help demystify Champagne production.

The price point reflects the quality and inclusions, but it’s a considered expense. It’s best suited for adults who appreciate wine, history, and scenic landscapes. The 7.5-hour schedule is manageable for most, though some may find the pace slightly full during busy seasons.

Reims Champagne Tour: An Authentic Experience of France’s Sparkling Heritage

This tour offers a rich mix of prestige and intimacy, combining visits to Veuve Clicquot, Hautvillers, and a family-run estate. The educational tasting sessions and delicious lunch are key highlights, giving a complete picture of Champagne craftsmanship. The small-group setting and expert guides enhance the experience, making every stop feel special.

While it costs a bit more, the quality of the visits, tastings, and personal attention justify the price for those eager to deepen their appreciation. If the idea of exploring both large and small Champagne producers appeals, this tour offers a wonderfully balanced day in the heart of France’s sparkling wine country.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 7.5 hours, from approximately 8:30 or 9:20 AM to around 4:45 or 5:30 PM.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Epernay (tourist office) or Reims Central Train Station, depending on the selected option.

What is included in the price?
The price includes transport by air-conditioned minivan, entry fees, 9 Champagne tastings, a guided visit to Veuve Clicquot and a family-run estate, and a lunch at a winery.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, dietary restrictions and allergies can be addressed if mentioned when booking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years.

What should I bring?
A jacket is recommended because the cellars are at around 10°C.

Can I join the tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
The tour is focused on Champagne tastings, so it may not suit non-drinkers or underage guests.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small and intimate experience.

What if I only want a half-day experience?
This is a full-day tour; half-day options may be available through other providers, but this specific experience runs 7.5 hours.

Is the tour available year-round?
Availability depends on season and scheduling, but check current booking options to confirm.

This Reims Champagne tour combines the grandeur of Veuve Clicquot, the charm of Hautvillers, and the personal touch of a family-run estate, perfect for anyone wanting a well-rounded, memorable exploration of France’s sparkling wine heritage.

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