Private Champagne tour, family growers and lunch

Discover Authentic Champagne with a Private Family Grower Tour and Lunch

The Private Champagne tour offered by À La Française stands out as a comprehensive day trip from Reims, France, priced at $719.93 per person. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 33 reviews, this tour promises a personalized experience, tailored to your interests, with pickup included and visits to both renowned Champagne houses and family-run vineyards. The 8-hour itinerary combines iconic sights, insider visits, and delicious tastings, making it ideal for those who want an authentic, immersive exploration of the Champagne region.

This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers seeking a relaxed pace, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of champagne production. While the price reflects its private nature and all-inclusive features, the limited availability—booked on average 67 days in advance—means early planning is essential. Expect a full day of sightseeing, tasting, and regional flavor, with lunch served at a winery.

Key Points

• Private, fully customized experience with expert English-speaking guides
• Visit two family-run champagne wineries with six tastings included
• Stops at iconic sites like Avenue de Champagne and Hautvillers
• Lunch included at a local winery, paired with regional delicacies
• All transportation, beverages, and visits included for a seamless day
• Pickup and drop-off offered within Reims or Epernay regions

The Unique Charm of Champagne Avenue and UNESCO Heritage Sites

One of the most striking features of this tour is driving along Champagne Avenue in Epernay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This stretch showcases elegant champagne houses and vibrant vineyards, offering a perfect backdrop for photos and a sense of the region’s grandeur. The tour provides a 15-minute drive along this renowned boulevard, giving travelers a glimpse of the prestigious champagne industry.

Plus, the drive through Hautvillers highlights a charming UNESCO village famous for its connections to Dom Pérignon. The Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers is visited for 45 minutes, where the famous church is the resting place of Dom Pérignon himself. This stop offers a deeper appreciation of the region’s historical roots and its influence on champagne making.

Exclusive Visits to Family Growers in Champagne

A significant highlight of this tour is the chance to visit two of the tour operator’s favorite family-growers. Unlike large Champagne houses, these smaller, family-run estates provide a more personal and authentic insight into champagne production. The visits are free, and you’ll enjoy six tastings of their carefully crafted champagnes.

These intimate visits allow for direct conversations with the growers, offering insights into traditional methods and regional nuances. Guests appreciate the calm, unhurried pace, which makes it easier to understand the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Iconic Champagne House Experience at A la Francaise !

The tour begins with a group tour and tasting at a world-recognized Champagne House, included in the one-hour admission ticket. This first stop sets the tone with a professional overview of champagne production, from vineyards to bottle. It’s the perfect introduction to the region, especially for those unfamiliar with champagne’s process.

This visit complements the more personal experiences at the family-growers, providing a balance of industry giants and boutique producers. The guided tour ensures you learn about the history, techniques, and key figures of champagne making.

Scenic Drive and Cultural Highlights in Hautvillers

The tour’s 45-minute drive through Hautvillers offers a leisurely look at a picturesque village that’s integral to champagne history. The Abbaye Saint-Pierre here is a must-see for its connection to Dom Pérignon, the famous monk associated with the development of sparkling wine.

Guests can appreciate the charming streets and vineyard views, making this a perfect spot for photo stops. The cultural significance and peaceful ambiance of Hautvillers enrich the overall experience, connecting the landscape to the tradition of champagne.

Tasting Six Champagnes from Select Growers

The core of this tour is the six tastings from carefully chosen family-growers, providing a wide spectrum of flavors and styles. The tastings are included at the two private estates, allowing guests to compare different expressions of champagne.

Each tasting offers an opportunity to learn about regional variations, grape blends, and aging techniques—all explained by guides or growers. These experiences are praised for their generosity and authenticity, which give a genuine taste of the region’s craftsmanship.

Lunch at a Local Winery in a Relaxed Setting

A casual lunch is served at one of the wineries visited during the day. This meal combines local delicacies with a spectacular setting, providing a well-rounded experience. Guests often highlight the quality of the food, which complements the champagne tastings perfectly.

The lunch is included in the price, offering a comfortable, convivial break from the sightseeing. It’s an ideal chance to relax, share impressions, and enjoy regional flavors in a friendly atmosphere.

Comfortable Transportation and Expert Guidance

Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off within Reims or Epernay (up to 40 km). The guide, who speaks fluent English, is knowledgeable and personable, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

The tour’s pacing receives praise for being comfortable and unhurried, allowing plenty of time for photos, questions, and savoring tastings. The tour operates in all weather conditions, and participants are advised to wear casual shoes as stops involve walking through vineyards.

Booking and Practical Details

Most travelers book this tour 67 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and limited availability. The tour starts at 10:00 am, providing a full day of sightseeing. Since it’s private, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

The tour includes pickup, transport, tastings, and lunch, with additional costs and personal expenses not covered. Travelers are encouraged to specify any dietary requirements at booking.

Why Choose This Champagne Tour?

This private tour offers a comprehensive and authentic experience of the Champagne region, blending visits to famous houses with intimate family-growers. The knowledgeable guides, praised for their friendliness and expertise, help bring the region’s history and craftsmanship to life.

With six tastings and a delicious lunch, the tour provides excellent value for those wanting a relaxed, in-depth day. Its personalized approach makes it ideal for wine lovers and curious explorers seeking an authentic taste of Champagne beyond the big-name estates.

Notable Limitations and Considerations

While the price is higher than group or shared tours, this reflects the private nature and all-inclusive features. The tour requires advance booking and is non-refundable, so planning ahead is essential. Participants should be prepared for walking in vineyards and weather conditions.

Pets are not allowed, and the tour may not suit those with mobility issues due to walking stops. However, the comfortable pacing and expert guidance make it accessible for most.

Experience the Heart of Champagne with Confidence

This private Champagne tour from Reims combines professional guidance, bespoke visits, and delicious regional cuisine to offer a well-rounded day. It’s particularly suited for those seeking an authentic, intimate experience with champagne tasting at its core.

The variety of stops—from prestigious houses to family growers—ensures a nuanced understanding of the region’s production. The friendly guides and delicious lunch enhance the experience, making it a memorable journey through Champagne’s scenic and cultural landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation, six champagne tastings, visits to two family wineries, a lunch at a winery, and a private English-speaking guide.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 67 days in advance due to the tour’s popularity and limited availability.

Can I customize the visits?
Since the tour visits two selected family-growers, customization is limited but guided by the expert recommendations of the operator.

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for the weather and wear casual shoes for vineyard stops.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The personal visits to family-run wineries combined with six tastings and a regional lunch make this experience stand out.