Not Your Average Champagne Tour – Day Trip From Paris (Private)

Discover Authentic Champagne with a Private Day Trip from Paris

The Not Your Average Champagne Tour offers a highly personalized, 10-hour journey into the heart of the Champagne region, departing and returning to Paris. Priced at $867.61 per person, this tour is perfect for those seeking a deeper, more exclusive experience of Champagne’s finest producers and scenery. With a 5.0/5 rating from five reviews, it clearly resonates with guests who appreciate careful planning, expert guidance, and a focus on the exceptional.

This tour is designed for both connoisseurs and beginners, offering a tailored experience with a dedicated driver and a champagne-fanatic guide for groups of up to 6 persons. The itinerary includes visits to Grand Crus, meetings with growers, tastings of rare Champagnes, and a delightful lunch. Its flexible approach allows customization based on your champagne knowledge and preferences, making each trip unique, especially during the harvest season, when tweaks to the itinerary may occur.

Key Points

• Private full-day experience departing from and returning to Paris, lasting around 10 hours
• Visits to Grand Crus including Mailly-Champagne and Chouilly, with tastings of exclusive Blanc de Blancs
• Meet growers directly in the vineyards and learn about Champagne production
• Includes a gourmet lunch with food, bottled water, and soft drinks
• Guided commentary on the significance of Avenue de Champagne and major Champagne houses
• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with pickup service, ideal for small groups

Starting the Day in Mailly-Champagne’s Grand Cru Vineyards

The tour begins early at Mailly-Champagne, a Grand Cru known for its exceptional vineyards. Here, you’ll meet a grower directly in the vines and enjoy your first glass of Champagne right among the grapevines. This stop lasts approximately 35 minutes and provides a genuine insight into the vineyard’s atmosphere, without any admission fee.

This initial visit showcases Champagne production at its source, setting a relaxed tone for the day. Being in the vines allows an appreciation of the landscape and the careful work behind each bottle. Visitors can expect to see authentic vineyard scenery, which feels both informative and inspiring.

Exploring the Iconic Avenue de Champagne in Épernay

A short walk from Mailly takes the group to the famous Avenue de Champagne in Épernay. Known as the region’s most renowned street, it’s lined with historic Champagne houses. This 35-minute stop offers the chance to learn about the region’s storied Champagne houses, take photos, and discuss their significance.

Guests appreciate the opportunity to walk along this historic street, gaining context about the size and prestige of Champagne’s major producers. While there’s no formal tasting here, the guide explains why the avenue is crucial to Champagne’s identity, making it a must-see for enthusiasts.

Savoring a Gourmet Lunch in Épernay

Midday, the tour pauses for a 1 hour 30-minute lunch at a quaint bistro in Épernay. The experience includes food, bottled water, and soft drinks, all included. The restaurant’s charm, combined with quality ingredients, makes this a perfect break in the day.

Guests find the lunch a highlight, enjoying a relaxed meal with a backdrop of the local atmosphere. The guide often discusses regional specialties, and the inclusion of bottled water and soft drinks ensures hydration throughout the day. It’s a chance to unwind and prepare for the afternoon tastings.

Tasting Four Blanc de Blancs in Chouilly’s Grand Cru Cellars

The journey continues to Chouilly, another Grand Cru village famous for its white Chardonnay-based Champagnes. Here, guests taste four Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Champagnes. The tasting is led by a highly-regarded winemaker or a member of their team, depending on availability.

This one-hour session offers a deep dive into high-quality, refined Champagne styles. Tasting these rare bottles provides insight into the purity and finesse of Blanc de Blancs. The experience is exclusive and educational, emphasizing the niche qualities that distinguish Chouilly’s Champagnes.

Discovering Unique Bottles on the Heights of Chatillon-sur-Marne

The final stop takes place at one of the highest points in Champagne, at Chatillon-sur-Marne. Here, guests enjoy tasting two very unique bottles in a setting that offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. This 30-minute visit acts as a memorable farewell to the day.

The scenic vantage point adds a visual treat to the tasting, and the unique bottles highlight the diversity of Champagne styles. It’s an ideal spot to reflect on the day’s experiences and enjoy a peaceful moment overlooking the landscape.

Practical Details: Comfort and Convenience

Throughout the day, guests travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup service included. The tour departs from Paris at 8:00 am, making it suitable for those wanting an immersive experience without the hassle of self-driving.

The tour is private, ensuring a tailored experience that prioritizes your group’s interests. The group size of up to 6 persons balances intimacy with social connection. It’s designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate, and has been praised for its flawless logistics like hotel pickup and drop-off.

Flexibility During Harvest Season

A notable feature of this tour is its adaptability during harvest time (September). The itinerary may experience slight changes to accommodate vineyard activities, but the core experiences — vineyard visits, tastings, and lunch — remain central. This flexibility ensures the tour stays relevant and authentic even during busy harvest periods.

Booking, Cancellation, and What’s Included

Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received upon reservation. The full-day experience costs $867.61 per person, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Included in the price are lunch, all Champagne tastings (except during the walk down Avenue de Champagne and at lunch), bottled water, and soft drinks. Guests do not need to worry about extra costs for these activities, making it a clear, transparent experience.

Why This Tour Resonates with Guests

Reviewers consistently praise the warm and welcoming guide, with many highlighting the well-curated and educational nature of the experience. The chance to meet growers, taste rare Champagnes, and enjoy stunning views sets this tour apart.

The flawless logistics—from hotel pickup to smooth transitions between stops—further enhances its appeal. Guests often comment on the quality of tastings and the opportunity to explore high-level Champagne beyond the basic offerings.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour is highly praised, it’s important to note that during harvest season, some adjustments may occur. Also, as a private experience, it’s priced at a premium, but this reflects the personalized nature and exclusivity of the tour.

The 10-hour duration requires a full-day commitment, but the well-paced schedule ensures you won’t feel rushed. Accessibility is generally good, though mobility needs should be considered for vineyard visits.

Final Thoughts on the Not Your Average Champagne Tour

This private day trip from Paris offers an authentic, luxurious, and educational experience focused on high-quality Champagne. It’s ideal for those who appreciate meeting growers, tasting rare bottles, and enjoying beautiful vineyard scenery with expert guidance.

The combination of careful planning, flexibility, and personalized attention ensures a memorable journey into Champagne’s finest offerings. For champagne lovers seeking a tailored, high-level experience, this tour delivers exceptional value and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes lunch, all Champagne tastings, bottled water, and soft drinks. Tastings during the walk down Avenue de Champagne and at lunch are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, departing at 8:00 am and returning to Paris.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is designed to be accessible. However, the full-day schedule requires good mobility and stamina.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, after booking, the tour provider contacts you to learn about your preferences and knowledge level to modify elements of the itinerary.

What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include Mailly-Champagne, Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, a lunch break in Épernay, Chouilly’s Blanc de Blancs tasting, and Chatillon-sur-Marne for a scenic final tasting.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, ensuring flexibility.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, hotel pickup in Paris is included, making the experience seamless from start to finish.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private setting, expert guide, visits to Grand Crus, and exclusive tastings distinguish this from other Champagne tours.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
The guide is a champagne fanatic who explains the significance of each location and tasting, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Is this tour worth the price?
Given its personalized approach, high-level Champagne tastings, and luxury logistics, it offers excellent value for those seeking a premium Champagne experience.