Private Champagne Ruinart, Moet Chandon VIP Tour by Mercedes

Exclusive Private Champagne Tour: Moët & Chandon and Ruinart by Mercedes

This luxury day trip from Paris offers a private guided exploration of two of France’s most renowned Champagne houses—Moët & Chandon and Ruinart—paired with tastings and visits to iconic sites. For $766 per person, travelers enjoy a 12.5-hour journey that includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided cellar tours, and delicious French lunch. This tour is ideal for those seeking a personalized experience in a luxury Mercedes E220 or a spacious minivan, with tiered pricing to accommodate small or slightly larger groups.

While the itinerary is packed with highlights, a notable strength is the inclusion of guided cellar visits at both Champagne houses, offering detailed insights into the Champagne-making process. The tour’s timing and personalized vehicle options make it suitable for travelers wanting a comfortable, exclusive experience. However, a few reviews point out that language barriers and pacing issues may occur, so some guests should prepare for flexibility.

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Key Points

• Private, guided Champagne experiences at Moët & Chandon and Ruinart
• Luxury Mercedes vehicles available for small groups of 2-3 or larger groups of 3-7
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Paris for convenience
• Tastings of premium Champagne cuvées, with options for advanced or premium tours
• Visits to iconic sites like the Reims Cathedral and Hautvillers village
• Flexible tiered pricing and guaranteed departures offer tailored experiences

Comfortable Transportation in Luxury Mercedes Vehicles

The tour departs from 75001 Paris in a Mercedes E220 business-class for small groups of 2-3 people, or a Mercedes minivan for groups of 3-7 travelers. The pickup is included from your accommodation, making the start effortless. The ride to the Champagne region takes about 2 hours, during which travelers enjoy scenic views of vineyards and countryside. A rest area stop is made for comfort and refreshment, helping guests arrive relaxed and ready for the day ahead.

Visiting Champagne’s Most Famous Cellars: Moët & Chandon

The journey begins in Épernay, the Champagne capital of France. The guided tour at Moët & Chandon spans up to 1.5 hours, including visits to the underground cellars—a highlight for fans of Champagne production. Guests can choose between two tasting levels: the Advanced option, which includes two glasses of Moët Grand Vintage Blanc and Rose, or the Premium option, offering two glasses from the Moët Collection.

Moët & Chandon is the largest Champagne producer in the world, with a bottle opening every second. The tour offers a detailed look at the Champagne-making process and the history of the house, making it an enriching experience, especially for those interested in the craftsmanship behind these iconic bubbles.

Savoring French Cuisine During the Lunch Break in Épernay

Following the cellar visit, a lunch break takes place in a local classical French restaurant. The 1.5-hour meal allows guests to relax and enjoy traditional French dishes in the town known for its Champagne heritage. Épernay’s charming streets and lively atmosphere add to the enjoyment of this midday pause.

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Exploring Hautvillers Village and the Abbey of Sindulphe

After lunch, the tour continues with a short drive to Hautvillers, a picturesque village famous as the birthplace of Champagne. The visit includes the Saint Sindulphe Church and a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the vineyards and the Marne River. This stop provides a breathtaking view of the rolling landscape and an opportunity to appreciate the setting that inspired Dom Pérignon, the legendary monk associated with Champagne’s origins.

Touring Ruinart’s Historic Cellars

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to Ruinart, established in 1729 as the oldest Champagne house. The guided tour lasts about 2 hours and takes place in UNESCO-listed cellars, where guests learn about Ruinart’s history and Champagne production techniques. Guests can opt for an advanced or premium tasting, with the advanced including two cuvées, and the premium offering three cuvées, including Blanc de Blancs and Blanc Singulier Édition 17 & 19.

The cellar visit provides a behind-the-scenes look at Ruinart’s unique methods, emphasizing its prestige and tradition. The tour guides are knowledgeable, offering insight into each cuvée’s distinct qualities, making this a highlight for Champagne enthusiasts.

Visiting Reims Cathedral and Its Significance

The tour includes a self-guided visit to Reims Cathedral, a famous site where French kings were crowned. The Reims Cathedral of Notre Dame is a symbol of French monarchy and Gothic architecture, with about 30 minutes allotted for exploration. This stop adds a cultural dimension to the day, enriching the overall experience with historical context.

Return Journey and Final Drop-off in Paris

After the cathedral visit, the journey back to Paris begins, taking approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. The drop-off is arranged at your hotel or accommodation in Paris, completing the luxury and convenience of this private day trip. The overall duration of 12.5 hours ensures a comprehensive experience without feeling rushed.

Additional Inclusions and Practical Details

The package includes all fees and taxes, bottled water, and the service of an experienced chauffeur responsible for punctuality and safety. While meals and drinks (besides Champagne tastings) are not included, guests can enjoy their own snacks or additional beverages during the day.

A live guide is available for an extra charge, but the chauffeur handles all transportation, ensuring a smooth journey. The tour offers tiered pricing for different group sizes and guaranteed departures, making it flexible for various travel needs.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This private Champagne experience suits travelers who value personalized service and luxury transport. It’s perfect for Champagne enthusiasts, culinary travelers, or those celebrating a special occasion. However, guests should be comfortable with structured schedules and some walking during site visits. The language barrier has been noted in some reviews, so English-speaking guides or prior preparations may enhance the experience.

Final Thoughts on the Moët & Chandon and Ruinart VIP Tour

This 12.5-hour private tour offers a comprehensive, comfortable, and luxury-focused way to explore Champagne’s most iconic houses. The combination of guided cellar visits, tastings, and visits to historic sites makes it an engaging option for those seeking a personalized Champagne journey from Paris.

While costs are higher than group tours, the private vehicle, tailored experience, and exclusive access provide good value for those who prioritize comfort and in-depth knowledge. The reviews point to attentive drivers and excellent winery visits as key strengths, though language barriers and pacing should be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The price covers guided cellar visits and tastings at Moët & Chandon and Ruinart, hotel pickup and drop-off, all fees and taxes, and bottled water.

Can I choose between different tasting options?
Yes, the tour offers advanced and premium tasting options, with the advanced including two cuvées and the premium offering three cuvées.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
The tour is private, with options for smaller groups of 2-3 or up to 7 in a larger vehicle, depending on the vehicle type selected.

Are meals included during the day?
No, meals and drinks (besides Champagne tastings) are not included, but a lunch is arranged at a local French restaurant in Épernay.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed but guaranteed departures and tiered pricing provide some flexibility. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are live guides available during the tour?
A live guide can be booked in advance for an extra charge, but the chauffeur leads the trip and handles transportation.

How long is the drive between Paris and Champagne?
The drive takes about 2 hours each way, with comfortable transportation and scenic views during the journey.

Who is this tour best suited for?
This experience is ideal for individuals or small groups seeking a luxury, private Champagne tour with guided cellar visits, especially those interested in history, wine, and cultural sites.

This private Champagne tour by Clewel Travel combines luxury, education, and personalized service, offering a sophisticated way to experience France’s Champagne heritage without the crowds.

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