GRAND VINTAGE Moet et Chandon Veuve Clicquot Cellars & Tastings

Discover the Ultimate Champagne Day Trip from Paris for Enthusiasts

This private tour from Paris offers an in-depth exploration of the Champagne region with a focus on luxury and expertise. Priced at $793.65 per person, the trip lasts approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes, making it a full day of indulgence and sightseeing. With hotel pickup, group discounts, and mobile tickets, it’s designed for those seeking a seamless, exclusive experience.

What sets this tour apart is the combination of guided cellar visits at Moet et Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, both leading Champagne houses with rich histories. The tour also includes visits to Reims Cathedral and Hautvillers village, famous for its panoramic vineyard views and Cluniac monastery. While a live guide is available for an extra fee, the chauffeur-driven journey ensures a comfortable, safe trip with plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Key Points

• Luxury private day trip from Paris to Champagne with hotel pickup.
• Includes guided cellar tours at Moet et Chandon and Veuve Clicquot.
• Offers two premium tasting options at both Champagne houses.
• Visits Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned, and the Hautvillers village with its panoramic vineyard views.
• Duration of about 12.5 hours, with a comfortable Mercedes vehicle.
• Optional live guide available for an additional fee.

Convenient Pickup and Transportation in Style

This tour departs from Paris at 7:30 am, with an early start ideal for maximizing the day. The journey to the Champagne region covers about 140 km, with a scenic 2-hour drive along picturesque vineyards and rolling landscapes. The Mercedes E220 or Minivan ensures a luxurious and relaxing ride, with a rest stop planned along the way. The pickup service simplifies logistics, removing the hassle of navigating public transport.

The group size is limited, enhancing the personalized feel of the experience. The private nature of the tour guarantees exclusivity, and the transportation is included in the overall experience, making it a stress-free day out.

Exploring the Moet et Chandon Cellars and Tastings

The first major stop is in Epernay, home to Moet et Chandon, the world’s largest Champagne producer. The guided tour lasts about 2 hours and includes a visit to the underground cellars and tastings. Choose between two high-level experiences:

• The “Grand Vintage” option, limited to up to 10 people, offers a 1.5-hour experience with two glasses of Moët Grand Vintage Blanc and Moët Grand Vintage Rosé.
• The “Moet Collection” experience, for up to 6 people, lasts 2 hours and features the same glasses plus a collection Blanc.

This is an excellent chance to learn about Champagne production and sample some of the best vintages in the region. The guides at Moet et Chandon are knowledgeable, providing insights into the champagne-making process and the significance of each cuvée.

Savoring Lunch in Épernay: The Champagne Capital

After the cellar tour, the tour includes a midday break in Épernay, renowned as the Champagne capital of France. Visitors can explore Avenue of Champagne, lined with prestigious champagne houses and elegant shops. Lunch can be enjoyed at a restaurant, with the option for a reservation to ensure a smooth dining experience.

This provides an opportunity to soak in the atmosphere of the region, stroll the charming streets, and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs. The town’s scenic setting along the Marne River adds to its appeal, making it an ideal spot to relax and reflect on the morning’s tastings.

Discovering Hautvillers Village and Dom Perignon’s Legacy

Next, the itinerary takes you to Hautvillers village, famous for its cluniac monastery and Vincent van Gogh’s paintings. The visit includes the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers and the Church of Saint-Sindulphe, founded in 665. The monastery is historically linked to Dom Perignon, the monk credited with developing Champagne-making techniques.

A panoramic viewpoint in the village offers spectacular views over the vineyards and Marne river. This stop provides a glimpse into the heritage of Champagne, with local producers still active in the area, totaling 26.

Champagne Cellar Tours at Veuve Clicquot with Exclusive Tastings

The tour continues with a visit to Veuve Clicquot, established in 1772, one of the largest Champagne producers with an output of over 22 million bottles annually. The guided cellar tour lasts about 2 hours, led by the Veuve Clicquot staff, who share insights into the history and production process.

Two premium tasting options are available:

• The “Une Seule Qualite” experience, a 1.5-hour session featuring four cuvées: Brut Carte Jaune, Extra Brut Extra Old, Vintage 2015, and Vintage Rosé 2015.
• The “L’art du vieillissement” experience, a 2-hour comparative tasting of four cuvées including Vintage Brut 2015, Vintage Rosé 2015, Vintage Brut 2002 in Magnum, and Cave Privée 1990, complemented by a cheese pairing.

Participants gain deep insights into aging and blending techniques while enjoying exceptional tastings.

Visiting Reims Cathedral: The Crown Jewel of Champagne

Following Veuve Clicquot, the tour features a self-guided visit to Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Gothic masterpiece served as the coronation site for most French kings. Its stained glass windows and historic architecture make it a must-see. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, offering time to admire the imposing façade and ancient sculptures.

The cathedral’s significance adds a cultural layer to the day, connecting the region’s religious and royal history with its wine-making traditions.

Return Journey and Final Hotel Drop-off

The return trip to Paris begins around 5:30 pm, with a 2-hour drive back along the scenic route. The drop-off is scheduled at your hotel around 8:00 pm, concluding a full and informative day in the Champagne region.

The smooth logistics, combined with professional transportation and timely arrivals, make this tour easy to enjoy from start to finish.

Who Will Appreciate This Champagne Day Trip?

This luxury private tour is perfect for wine and champagne enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of champagne production. The guided cellar tours and tastings offer a comprehensive experience suited for adults over 18. The inclusion of historic sites like Reims Cathedral and Hautvillers village makes it appealing to those interested in the culture and heritage of the region.

Travelers who value comfort, expertise, and personalized service will find this tour well worth the price. The optional live guide provides an extra layer of insight, though the chauffeur-driven format ensures a relaxed pace without the need for a guide at each stop.

Final Thoughts: A Premium Way to Taste and Discover Champagne

This private Champagne day trip from Paris offers a comprehensive view of the region’s champagne-making traditions, paired with visits to iconic houses and historic landmarks. The high-level tasting options and luxurious transportation deliver a premium experience tailored for connoisseurs and curious visitors alike.

While the price tag is notable, the all-inclusive nature, guided cellar visits, and extraordinary locations justify the expense for those seeking a specialized, hassle-free day in Champagne. This tour is especially suited for adults eager to learn, celebrating a special occasion, or simply wanting to combine luxury and culture in one memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 can participate in the guided cellar tours, but tastings are reserved for adults 18 and over.

How long is the drive from Paris to Champagne?
The journey takes about 2 hours each way, covering approximately 140 km.

Are the cellar tours guided?
Yes, the cellar tours at Moet et Chandon and Veuve Clicquot are guided by house staff. A live guide for the overall day can be booked for an additional fee.

What are the tasting options?
Guests can choose between two premium tasting experiences at each Champagne house, featuring multiple cuvées and cheese pairings.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but can be arranged at a restaurant in Épernay.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is booked about 87 days in advance on average, and confirmation is immediate upon booking.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What makes this tour stand out?
The luxury transportation, private cellar visits, and historic site visits make it a premium choice for those seeking an immersive Champagne experience.

How is the overall value?
While the cost is on the higher side, the comprehensive itinerary and high-quality tastings deliver a premium, all-in-one Champagne experience.

Is accessibility covered?
The tour starts near public transportation, but specific accessibility details are not provided.