Full Day Pommery Small Group Tour

Key Points

• Comprehensive 8-hour tour exploring Champagne from Reims to Épernay
• Includes visits to Pommery’s historic roman cellars and tastings of Champagne
• Highlights Reims Cathedral’s 800-year-old Gothic architecture and royal crownings
• Stops at vineyards with explanations and photo opportunities
• Visit to Dom Pérignon’s tomb in Hautvillers adds historic charm
• Finish with a tasting at a boutique Champagne producer featuring 3 different glasses
• Small group size limited to 8 participants for an intimate experience
• Includes private transportation, guided commentary, and bottled water

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Discover the Full Day of Champagne Experiences in Reims and Épernay

The Full Day Pommery Small Group Tour offers a detailed and engaging journey through the heart of France’s Champagne country. Priced at $291 per person and lasting 8 hours, this tour combines iconic sights, historic landmarks, and immersive tastings. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed yet comprehensive look at Champagne production, with plenty of opportunity to see stunning villages and learn about local traditions.

Starting from Reims, known for its royal crownings and vibrant city life, the tour takes you into the famous Pommery cellar, where Roman-era mines and striking contemporary art create a captivating tasting environment. The tour then moves to Reims Cathedral, an 800-year-old Gothic masterpiece where many French kings were crowned, offering a chance to marvel at its architecture and history.

A highlight for many is the visit to Hautvillers, where Dom Pérignon’s tomb is located, giving insight into the origins of Champagne-making. The tour also includes a journey through the vineyards of the Marne River Valley, providing picture-perfect views and explanations about the different grape-growing areas. The day wraps up with a tasting at a boutique Champagne producer, where three glasses of Champagne are sampled, showcasing the diversity and craftsmanship of local producers.

Visit Pommery’s Roman Cellars and Enjoy a Champagne Tasting

A key part of this tour is the visit to Pommery’s Roman cellar, known for its 2000-year-old mines that have been transformed into an extraordinary underground space. Inside, the atmosphere is enhanced by both old and modern art installations, making the tasting experience both historic and artistic. The guided tour of the cellar provides insight into Pommery’s Champagne-making process, culminating in a tasting of one glass of Champagne.

This visit is particularly appealing for those interested in historic wine cellars and unique underground environments. The tasting allows guests to appreciate the subtle differences in Champagne styles and quality, all within the setting of a fascinating ancient mine.

Reims Cathedral: A Gothic Wonder and French Crown Jewel

The Reims Cathedral of Notre-Dame is a central highlight of the tour, with a guided 30-minute tour that emphasizes its gigantic gothic architecture. Known for hosting the coronations of French kings, the cathedral’s history extends over 800 years, and its intricate façade and stained glass windows are a must-see.

Visitors get a chance to admire the cathedral’s stained glass windows and learn about its historical significance in French royal ceremonies. The 15-minute sightseeing stop afterward allows for photos and further exploration of the surrounding streets of Reims.

Exploring the Vineyards and Châteaux of Épernay

After the city tour, the journey continues to Épernay, famed for its Avenue de Champagne, where many large Champagne houses and smaller producers are located. Guests have 1.5 hours for lunch and a walk along this renowned street, taking in the elegant facades and historic champagne cellars.

The vineyard visit in the Avenay-Val-d’Or area offers a chance to see vineyards firsthand and learn about grape cultivation and Champagne production. The guided tasting of three different Champagnes at a boutique winery provides insight into the variety of flavors and styles possible within this region.

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Visit to Dom Pérignon’s Tomb at Hautvillers

The tour makes a 20-minute stop at Hautvillers, a charming village where Dom Pérignon’s tomb is located within the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers. This site offers both a sense of history and beautiful scenery, making it a peaceful moment in the tour. The guided visit provides context about Dom Pérignon’s role in Champagne history and the local tradition of Champagne making.

Small Group Transportation and Practical Details

This tour operates with a private, air-conditioned vehicle and is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of room for questions and interaction. The pickup is included from either Reims station or your hotel, making logistics straightforward and convenient.

The tour includes tickets to Pommery and the boutique winery, bottled water, and guided commentary in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. Lunch is not included, but the guide provides restaurant suggestions for those wanting to explore local cuisine.

What to Expect During the Tour

The itinerary is well-structured, with a mix of guided tours, sightseeing, and tastings. The visits are timed carefully to balance historic sites, scenic villages, and wine experiences. The stops at vineyards allow for explanations about grape growing, while the cellar tours highlight Champagne production techniques.

The pacing is relaxed, with enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. The small group size enhances the experience by allowing more interaction and personalized attention.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

Most Champagne Houses are handicap accessible, but some small producers might have stairs in their cellars. It’s advisable to inform the tour operator about any accessibility needs in advance. The tour starts and ends in Reims, not Paris, which is important for planning your trip.

Note that lunch and train tickets are not included in the price, so travelers should plan accordingly. The 8-hour duration makes this tour suitable for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and tasting.

The Value of the Full Day Champagne Tour

At $291, the tour offers excellent value considering the multiple visits, tastings, and expert guides involved. The small group size ensures a more engaging experience, and the comprehensive itinerary covers the major highlights of Champagne’s history, production, and scenery.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the pacing and diverse stops keep the experience lively and enjoyable. The highly praised guides like Raphael contribute significantly to the overall success of the tour, adding knowledge and personality to each stop.

The Sum Up: An Engaging and Well-Rounded Champagne Experience in Reims and Épernay

This Full Day Pommery Small Group Tour stands out for its rich itinerary, covering historic landmarks, scenic vineyards, and renowned Champagne houses. It offers a balanced mix of cultural sights, like Reims Cathedral, with hands-on tastings at Pommery and boutique wineries.

The small group size ensures a personalized experience and allows for more meaningful interactions with guides. The inclusion of historic sites like Dom Pérignon’s tomb and beautiful villages makes this tour a well-rounded exploration of the Champagne region.

Ideal for those who appreciate history, scenery, and wine, this tour provides a thorough overview suitable for beginners and connoisseurs alike. Its high ratings and positive reviews reflect its value and engaging nature, making it a strong choice for a full-day Champagne adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour features private, air-conditioned transportation with pickup included from Reims station or your hotel.

Are tastings included?
Yes, guests enjoy tastings at Pommery, a boutique winery, and a sample of 3 glasses of Champagne at the end of the day.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most Champagne Houses are handicap friendly, but some small producers may have stairs. It’s recommended to inform the tour provider about any needs.

What is not included in the tour?
The price excludes train tickets from and to Paris and lunch, though restaurant suggestions are provided.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 8 hours, covering multiple stops, sightseeing, and tastings, making it suitable for those comfortable with a full-day commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby