Moet et Chandon Pommery Pressoria Champagne Private trip

Discover the Luxury of Champagne with a Private Day Trip from Paris

This private champagne tour from Paris offers a comprehensive look into the world of French bubbly, combining guided cellar visits, museum explorations, and a taste of the region’s legendary wines. Priced at $643.03 per person, it spans approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a full-day immersion in Champagne’s finest houses and sights. The tour departs early from your hotel, with a Mercedes vehicle ensuring comfort and style throughout the journey, and includes hotel pickup for added convenience.

While the tour features visits to Moët et Chandon, Pressoria Museum, and Pommery, it offers three different experience levels—BASIC, MOST POPULAR, and ADVANCED—to suit varying preferences. A notable highlight is the self-guided visit at Pressoria, where you learn about Champagne’s history and production methods. The tour’s flexibility allows for restaurant reservations in Épernay and a guided or audio-guided experience at each site, though the guide at the cellars is responsible for transportation and ticketing, not guiding.

It’s important to note that Moët et Chandon may not always be available for the BASIC Option, in which case a higher-level experience is offered. The tour is well-suited for those eager to explore the Champagne region in depth, especially lovers of wine and history. With group discounts and mobile tickets, the experience combines practical logistics with a touch of luxury.

Key Points

• Private full-day tour from Paris with hotel pickup in a Mercedes vehicle
• Visits to Moët et Chandon, Pressoria Museum, and Pommery with tastings included
• Three experience levels: BASIC, MOST POPULAR, ADVANCED, with varying cellar tour options
• Self-guided visit at Pressoria with Champagne tasting
• Tour duration of about 11.5 hours, ideal for a comprehensive Champagne experience
• Option to book a live guide for an additional surcharge

Pickup and Transportation in Style

The tour begins at 7:30 am, with hotel pickup arranged to start the journey toward the Champagne region. The drive lasts around 2 hours, covering 140 kilometers, during which you can enjoy scenic views of vineyards and Champagne landscapes. A rest stop at a designated rest area provides a brief break before arriving at the first destination. The use of a Mercedes E220 or Minivan ensures a comfortable and smooth ride, making the journey as enjoyable as the visits themselves.

Guided Cellar Tours at Moët et Chandon

The highlight of the trip is the visit to Moët et Chandon, the world’s largest Champagne producer, where every second bottle is opened. The cellar tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and includes guided explanations by an expert. Depending on the chosen experience level, visitors sample two glasses of Champagne: Moët Impérial and Rosé Impérial for the BASIC, Moët Imperial and Grand Vintage for the MOST POPULAR, or Grand Vintage Blanc and Rose for the ADVANCED option.

While the BASIC Option might sometimes be unavailable, the MOST POPULAR or ADVANCED options ensure a more in-depth tasting, appealing to those eager to explore different styles. The guides at Moët et Chandon are knowledgeable and provide detailed insights into the production process, elevating the tasting experience.

Interactive Champagne Education at Pressoria Museum

After the cellar tour, the tour continues with a self-guided visit to the Pressoria Museum, where you gain a thorough understanding of Champagne’s history and production methods. The visit lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes and includes the opportunity to taste two glasses of Champagne. The museum’s exhibits are designed to educate without overwhelming, making it accessible for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.

The admission ticket is included in the tour, and the self-guided format allows for a flexible pace. The museum’s focus on the Champagne method and regional history makes it both educational and enjoyable.

Exploring Épernay, the Champagne Capital

A short 10-minute drive takes you to Épernay, where the lunch break occurs, typically in a local restaurant. The town is famous for its Avenue of Champagne, lined with prestigious Champagne houses. Visitors have about an hour to explore or relax, making it a perfect spot to enjoy regional cuisine or browse local shops.

Épernay’s picturesque streets and wine hills make it a must-visit for Champagne lovers, offering a chance to walk among vineyards and witness the town’s lively atmosphere. The tour does not include lunch, but the option to reserve a restaurant enhances the overall experience.

Visiting the Abbey of Hautvillers and Panoramic Vistas

After lunch, the tour stops at the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, founded in 665. This site is historically significant as Dom Perignon developed wine-making techniques here. The visit includes a short stop at the viewpoint, where panoramic views over the vineyards and Marne river are breathtaking.

This peaceful village provides a glimpse into Champagne’s historic roots and offers an opportunity for photos and reflection. The abbey’s church remains a notable attraction, with its long-standing history and connection to Champagne’s development.

Champagne Pommery and the Reims Visit

Next, the tour moves to Champagnes Pommery for an audio-guided visit of the UNESCO-listed caves and a tasting of one glass of Brut Royal. The visit lasts approximately 45 minutes and presents a comprehensive view of Pommery’s heritage and production facilities.

Following Pommery, the group visits the iconic Reims Cathedral, where most French kings were crowned. The 30-minute visit offers a chance to admire the cathedral’s architecture and historic significance. Both sites are included in the tour and add cultural depth to the day.

Returning to Paris with Comfort and Ease

The journey back to Paris starts around 4:30 pm, with an estimated 2.5-hour drive. The group arrives at the hotel by 7:00 pm, concluding the full-day experience. The tour includes all fees, taxes, bottled water, and admission tickets for most stops, providing a hassle-free day of exploration.

Practical Details and Optional Extras

This private tour is designed for maximum flexibility; live guides are available for an additional charge, and restaurant reservations can be arranged upon request. The tour is suitable for anyone aged 18 and above due to wine tasting regulations. The group size varies depending on the experience level selected, with smaller groups for the more exclusive options.

It’s advisable to book at least 42 days in advance due to high demand, especially for the higher-level cellar experiences. The mobile ticket option makes access straightforward, and group discounts provide added value for larger parties.

Final Thoughts on the Champagne Private Trip

This full-day private tour delivers an immersive look into the Champagne industry, from cellar visits and tastings to regional sights like Épernay and Hautvillers. Its flexibility with experience levels and the inclusion of museum visits make it appealing for both casual wine lovers and enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding.

The luxurious transport, combined with well-organized stops and educational visits, makes this trip a solid choice for those interested in Champagne’s history, production, and culture. However, the availability of Moët et Chandon for the basic experience is limited at times, so choosing the MOST POPULAR or ADVANCED options is recommended for a more comprehensive experience.

The tour offers a balanced mix of guided, self-guided, and scenic experiences, making it a rewarding way to explore the Champagne region in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers guided cellar visits at Moët et Chandon, an audio-guided visit at Pommery with a Champagne tasting, and a self-guided visit to Pressoria with tastings. It also includes a Mercedes vehicle, all fees, taxes, bottled water, and admission tickets to major sites.

Can I choose different experience levels at Moët et Chandon?
Yes, there are three options: BASIC (Moët Impérial and Rosé Impérial), MOST POPULAR (Moët Imperial and Grand Vintage), and ADVANCED (Grand Vintage Blanc and Rose). Availability varies, especially for the BASIC option.

Is a guide included during the cellar visits?
The driver responsible for transportation does not serve as a guide; however, a live guide can be booked for an extra fee to accompany the tour.

How long is the drive from Paris to Champagne?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours covering 140 km, with a stop at a rest area en route.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Moët et Chandon, Pressoria Museum, Épernay for lunch, Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, Champagnes Pommery, and Reims Cathedral.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but there is an opportunity to reserve a restaurant in Épernay for lunch.

Is there an age restriction for wine tastings?
Yes, participants must be at least 18 years old to partake in wine tastings.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made through the tour provider, Clewel Travel, with confirmation sent immediately upon reservation.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
Yes, group discounts are available, and the tour is private for your group, ensuring a personalized experience.