Gold Champagne Experience from Epernay (Private Full day tour)

The Gold Champagne Experience from Epernay offers an engaging, private journey through the legendary vineyards and historic towns of the Champagne region in France. Priced at $577.50 per person, this full-day tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours and provides a personalized exploration of Champagne’s most celebrated villages. The tour is notably favored for its insider access to independent producers, tastings of Grand Cru and Premier Cru champagnes, and a scenic French lunch paired with Champagne. While the price may seem high, the inclusion of private transport, exclusive visits, and a dedicated guide make this experience stand out. It’s best suited for those eager to uncover authentic Champagne secrets and enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

One key consideration is that this tour requires booking roughly 2 months in advance on average, reflecting its popularity. It’s also a full-day experience, so comfort with a busy itinerary and a moderate amount of walking or standing is recommended. The tour’s private nature means it’s limited to your group, offering flexibility and a more tailored visit than group tours. Visitors looking for a luxurious, in-depth Champagne adventure will find this experience both comprehensive and memorable.

Key Points

• Private full-day tour in Champagne with 7 to 8 hours of immersive visits
• Includes tastings of Grand Cru and Premier Cru champagnes at independent producers
• Visits UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hautvillers and the Avenue de Champagne
• Explores renowned villages such as Cramant, Oger, and Aÿ-Champagne
• Gourmet lunch with a bottle of Champagne included for a convivial dining experience
• Limited to your group for a personalized, flexible experience

Discovering the Birthplace of Champagne at Hautvillers

The tour begins in Hautvillers, known as the Cradle of Champagne. Here, a private visit of Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers highlights the church where Dom Pérignon’s grave is located. This stop also includes a story about Dom Pérignon himself, clarifying whether he truly invented Champagne — a common question. The visit lasts about 30 minutes and is free of charge.

From there, the guide takes you to the UNESCO-listed hillsides of Hautvillers for panoramic views of the Marne Valley. This scenic viewpoint showcases the vineyards where Dom Pérignon experimented with winemaking techniques. It’s an ideal spot for photos and appreciating the landscape that has shaped Champagne production for centuries.

Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Avenue de Champagne

Next, a drive along Epernay’s Avenue de Champagne reveals one of the most prestigious addresses in the wine world. Known as “the most expensive avenue in the world,” it features historic Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët, and Pol Roger. The guide offers a commented walk through this grand street, explaining the history behind its luxurious mansions and production facilities.

This stop offers a glimpse into Champagne’s elite production heritage, with 100 kilometers of cellars hiding 200 million bottles. While many of these cellars are private, the tour provides a detailed narrative that enriches the visual experience of passing by these iconic structures.

Visiting Cramant: The Kingdom of Chardonnay

In the Côte des Blancs, the tour pauses in Cramant, a Grand Cru village renowned for its 100% Chardonnay wines. This region is often called the “Kingdom of Chardonnay Grand Cru”, making it a perfect location for tasting pure, high-quality Blanc de Blancs champagnes.

Here, the group visits local family-run wineries, where explanations about the Champagne-making process are provided. Visitors taste three different Premier Cru champagnes, with commentary on the differences—such as vintage, old vines, or aging methods. The visit lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Lunch follows in a local Champagne bar, favored by residents. It features gourmet charcuterie, cheeses, regional biscuits, and coffee, with a bottle of Champagne for two. This convivial meal allows for relaxed conversation amid the vineyard scenery.

Visiting Oger: The Home of Blanc de Blancs

The journey continues to Oger, another Grand Cru village celebrated for its 100% Chardonnay Champagnes. At one of the local family producers, visitors learn about different “Blanc de Blancs” styles, such as natural, extra brut, vintage, or oak-aged wines.

The visit involves a look at presses, wineries, and cellars, where three tasting samples are offered, along with advice to appreciate each champagne’s unique qualities. The tour here lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Passing through nearby villages like Chouilly and Avize, the tour also features views of the largest bottles factory and Chateau de Saran, a private estate linked to the luxury LVMH group.

Exploring Aÿ-Champagne’s Historic Villages

The tour then visits Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, a Premier Cru village with longstanding Pinot Noir vineyards. This UNESCO-listed hillside area is known for more confidential Champagne Houses like Billecart-Salmon and Philipponnat. The visit emphasizes vineyard practices and the terroir, highlighting the special qualities of this historic location.

Finally, the focus shifts to Aÿ-Champagne, a village with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. It was once the main hub of Champagne production, with royal presses and the original wines called “Wines of Aÿ”. The group observes famous Champagne Houses such as Bollinger, Deutz, and Ayala, with commentary about the village’s prominent place in Champagne history.

Tasting the Essential Champagne Offerings and Local Spirits

Throughout the day, the tour includes sampling of three essential Champagne types: Ratafia, Fine de la Marne, and Marc de Champagne from Goyard Distillery, the oldest distillery in Champagne. These tastings provide insight into regional spirits that complement the Champagne experience.

Plus, at various stops, guests can enjoy tastings of Grand Cru Champagnes, including natural, vintage, or oak-aged options. The focus on independent producers offers a personal perspective absent from larger Champagne houses.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour departs from Epernay with pickup offered and uses private transportation, ensuring comfort and flexibility. Travelers are recommended to book about 67 days in advance due to high demand. The entire experience is private and limited to your group, allowing a tailored pace with personalized attention.

Each stop is carefully selected to showcase UNESCO sites, famous villages, and champagne production. The tour ends back in Epernay, with flexible scheduling between 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM. Lunch and tastings are included, but dietary needs should be communicated when booking.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience appeals most to those who want an in-depth, personalized exploration of Champagne with a focus on independent producers and heritage sites. It suits travelers interested in wine-making techniques, local history, and gourmet food paired with Champagne. The private setting and detailed explanations also make it ideal for wine enthusiasts or couples seeking a relaxed yet engaging day in the vineyards.

Final Thoughts on the Gold Champagne Experience

The Gold Champagne Experience from Epernay offers a comprehensive and exclusive look into the Champagne region’s history, vineyards, and production. Its strength lies in private visits, variety of stops, and the chance to taste rare and high-quality champagnes.

While the day can be busy, the expert guides and scenic views create a rich, immersive experience. The inclusion of a Gourmet lunch with Champagne elevates the visit from mere sightseeing to a true culinary journey. This tour is best suited for those who value authenticity, intimacy, and in-depth knowledge of Champagne’s craft.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $577.50 per person fee covers private transportation, visits to multiple Champagne villages, tastings of Grand Cru and Premier Cru champagnes, a French lunch, and a private guide.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts around 7 to 8 hours, allowing for a relaxed pace with plenty of time at each stop.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It is ideal for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and those wanting a private, personalized day exploring Champagne’s vineyards and villages.

Are food allergies or dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, when booking, travelers should inform the team of any food allergies or dietary requirements. The lunch offers options like charcuterie, cheese, and regional dishes.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is offered, and all transportation is private, ensuring comfort and flexibility throughout the day.

Can I request a specific vehicle?
The tour includes various vehicle options, including a classic or electric vehicle. It’s best to specify preferences when booking.

Are wine tastings conducted at multiple locations?
Yes, tastings are held at independent producers and family-run wineries across the region, focusing on Premier Cru and Grand Cru champagnes.

What makes this tour different from other Champagne excursions?
Its private, tailored approach and the focus on independent producers distinguish it from larger, more commercial tours. It provides authentic insights and exclusive visits.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While primarily focused on wine and spirits, the scenic views, walking, and cultural stops could appeal to non-drinkers, but the main focus is on Champagne tasting.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour operates year-round from March to July 2026, with flexible hours. Spring and summer offer especially lush vineyard views, but all seasons provide a beautiful backdrop.

How do I book this experience?
Bookings are made through the provider, Aÿ-Champagne Experience, with availability typically 2 months in advance. Contact details are provided for reservations.