3 days in Champagne – “Aromas” experience

A 3-day journey through the Champagne region in Reims offers a comprehensive exploration of this iconic sparkling wine. Priced at $2,903.61 per person, this tour promises 21 Champagne tastings, visits to famous houses like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, as well as intimate meetings with real winemakers. The experience is tailored for those seeking a deep dive into Champagne’s best cellars, its small producers, and rare vintage bottles. The tour’s approximate duration of 3 days makes it a perfect option for travelers wanting an immersive, informative, and luxurious three-day adventure.

The tour starts with an emphasis on big house visits, then transitions into exploring boutique producers, ending with special tastings of unique Champagnes, including “extra-dry” and “zero” vintages. Notably, the tour is private, with pickup and transportation provided, ensuring a comfortable and customized experience. With an average booking window of 251 days in advance, this tour attracts serious Champagne lovers looking for a well-organized and expert-led exploration. While the price reflects a high-end experience, the quality and exclusivity make it stand out for those eager to learn and taste at the top levels.

Key Points

• Private 3-day Champagne tour in Reims with 21 tastings included
• Visits to big houses like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Champagne Mercier
• Encounters with real winemakers from small producers for personal tastings
• Special tastings of rare vintage Champagnes, including “extra-dry” and “zero” types
• Luxury transportation and lunches included, with pickup offered
• Tour is booked on average 251 days in advance and has a perfect 5-star rating from 4 reviews

Exploring Reims’ Top Champagne Houses

The tour begins with visits to four major Champagne houses: Champagnes Pommery, Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, and Champagne Mercier. Each location offers a unique behind-the-scenes look into their cellars, vinification processes, and bottle shops.

Champagnes Pommery showcases impressive cellars and bottling areas, including the largest bottles of Champagne ageing. The visit lasts about 2 hours, and includes a tasting session in the former vinification center. Next, the group heads to Veuve Clicquot for a tasting room experience and a browse through branded products. The 1-hour visit emphasizes the brand’s elegance and history.

Moët & Chandon offers a 2-hour exploration of its cellars coupled with tastings of their famous Champagne along with Dom Perignon. The Champagne Mercier stop is distinctive for its cellar tour via small train, where visitors see the largest Champagne oak barrel capable of holding 200,000 bottles. All visits include admission tickets.

Day 2: Small Producers and Iconic Landmarks

The second day digs into the boutique Champagne scene with visits to two small producers. In Sermiers, located in a Grand Cru village, a private visit with a local winemaker reveals the press center, vinification process, and cellars. Visitors taste at least four different Champagnes, with the winemaker guiding the personalized tasting.

The next stop is Rilly-la-Montagne, a “1er cru” village where a local producer shares their cellar and winemaking story. Tasting different champagnes from this region highlights distinctive flavors that contrast with the previous stop. The day also includes a scenic drive through the UNESCO-listed vineyards of Verzy, offering stunning views of Champagne’s landscape.

Plus, visitors take time to visit the Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Reims, where French kings were crowned for over 1000 years. This 30-minute stop adds historical context to the region’s rich tradition.

Day 3: Rare Champagnes and Village Charm

The final day intensifies with special tastings of rare and vintage Champagnes, including “extra-dry” and “zero” varieties. The journey begins in Beaumont-sur-Vesle, where a winemaker produces one of the top ten Chardonnays worldwide. Visitors also get to sample still wines from French oak barrels, gaining insight into the differences between Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Next, in Verzenay, a retired winemaker shares bottles he’s preserved from his career, allowing visitors to taste vintage Champagnes up to 25 years old. This stop delivers a rare glimpse into Champagne aging and aroma development.

The tour continues with a visit to Hautvillers, famously associated with Dom Perignon, and concludes with a drive along Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, soaking in the glamour and history of the region’s capital of Champagne.

Logistics and Inclusions

The private transportation ensures ease between stops, and pickup is offered, making the entire experience comfortable. This tour includes three lunches and 21 Champagne tastings, carefully curated to balance big house classics with small producer gems and rare vintages.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received within 48 hours and near public transportation options. Since it is a private experience, only your group participates, providing a tailored and intimate journey through Champagne.

Price, Booking, and Cancellation

At $2,903.61 per person, this experience reflects a luxury, all-inclusive approach, with admission tickets and private transport included. The average booking window of 251 days indicates high demand and a prestige status for this tour.

Cancellation is possible up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Less notice means the fee is non-refundable, emphasizing the need for early planning.

The Guide: Stéphane Demissy

The tour is led by Stéphane Demissy, known for his knowledgeable storytelling and personalized approach. Multiple reviews praise his expertise and dedication, with comments highlighting how he makes the experience special and engaging.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This 3-day “Aromas” experience is best suited for Champagne enthusiasts seeking a luxurious, in-depth exploration. It suits those who appreciate big maisons, have an interest in small producers, and want to taste rare vintages in an exclusive setting. The combination of guided visits, tastings, and scenic drives ensures a comprehensive understanding of Champagne’s diverse offerings.

While the price is on the higher side, the quality of visits, expert guides, and personalized experience justify the cost for serious connoisseurs or those celebrating a special occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, pickup, 21 Champagne tastings, and three lunches over the three days.

Are accommodations included?
No, accommodations are not included in the tour price.

How many stops are there each day?
Day 1 features four major Champagne house visits. Day 2 includes two small producers and a scenic vineyard drive. Day 3 combines special vintage tastings, a village visit, and a drive along Epernay’s Champagne Avenue.

What types of Champagne are tasted?
The tour offers a mix of big house classics, small producer creations, and rare vintage bottles, including “extra-dry” and “zero” varieties.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or those with limited mobility?
Since the experience involves wine tastings and walking through cellars, it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues. The tour is designed for most travelers, but specific limitations are not detailed.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 3 days before the start for a full refund. Cancellations less than 3 days before are not refundable.

Who leads the tour?
Stéphane Demissy, known for his knowledge and dedication, guides the tour, providing personalized insights.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is usually booked around 251 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and demand.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is part of the experience, ensuring seamless travel between stops.

This 3-day in Champagne tour provides a comprehensive and luxurious exploration of the region’s top maisons and small producers with a focus on rare vintages and personalized service. For those eager to deepen their understanding of Champagne’s varied styles and production methods, this experience offers a well-curated, memorable journey.