Private Full Day Tour – Visit of 3 Champagne Growers from Reims.

Key Points

• Private, small-group experience limited to 8 people ensures personalized attention
• Visit three family-owned Champagne growers, each offering unique tasting experiences
• Includes 10 Champagne tastings throughout the day, with expert explanations of production
• Gourmet three-course lunch in a French restaurant in Épernay, with a glass of Champagne included
• Transport in a luxurious Mercedes Minivan, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Reims or Épernay
• Highly rated at 5.0/5 from 51 reviews, with travelers praising knowledgeable guides and exceptional wines

Introduction: An Intimate and In-Depth Champagne Experience

This private full-day tour from Reims, offered by Sparkling Tour, provides a comprehensive look into small family-owned Champagne houses. Priced at $452.82 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending with hotel drop-off in Reims or Épernay. The journey is conducted in a full-option Mercedes Minivan with air conditioning, ensuring comfort as you explore the region.

The experience is perfect for those seeking a personalized visit with expert guides who explain the entire Champagne-making process, from vineyard to tasting. The tour emphasizes small producers, away from the crowded big houses, offering a more authentic and relaxed insight into Champagne craftsmanship. A notable limitation is that famous houses such as Moët & Chandon are not included, but the focus on family-run wineries often results in more engaging and intimate visits.

How the Tour Starts: Meeting in Reims for a Scenic Drive

The tour begins at the Cour de la Gare in Reims, where guests are greeted and picked up in a luxurious Mercedes Minivan. The journey afterward takes you through the Champagne region, with scenic drives along Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, a street famous for its prestigious Champagne houses. The group size is limited to 8 people, which ensures a personalized experience and the opportunity to ask questions freely.

The pickup and drop-off service is available only within Reims and Épernay, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby. This setup helps maximize the time spent exploring and tasting rather than dealing with logistical concerns.

Exploring the Abbey of Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon’s Legacy

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, a historic site known as the place where Dom Pérignon created Champagne. The 15-minute walk inside the abbey includes explanations about Dom Pérignon’s life and his involvement in Champagne history. The admission fee is included, giving guests access to this iconic location.

This stop offers a chance to admire the architecture, learn about the monk’s role in Champagne development, and enjoy an atmospheric walk through the village. The guide’s storytelling enriches this experience, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Tasting at the First Family-Run Champagne Grower

The first winery visit involves a cellar tour and a guided explanation of Champagne production methods. The small family-run winery welcomes visitors into their cellar for an authentic look at their traditions. After the tour, guests sample 3 different Champagnes, with the host sharing insights into each wine’s characteristics.

This stop emphasizes the artisanal approach of small producers, often resulting in more distinctive and flavorful champagnes. The tasting experience is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to appreciate the nuances of each glass.

Strolling Through Hautvillers Village

Between winery visits, the tour includes a stop in Hautvillers, offering free time to walk through the picturesque village. This setting is notable for its charming streets and historic ambiance, providing a perfect backdrop for learning about Champagne’s roots. The guide may share stories about local legends and the influence of Dom Pérignon, deepening the appreciation of the region’s heritage.

Lunch at a French Bistronomic Restaurant in Épernay

A highlight of the day is the lunch at the Why Not restaurant in Épernay. The three-course meal features starters, main courses, and desserts, with options that include a glass of Champagne, coffee, and water. The meal is praised in reviews as one of the best in France, adding a touch of luxury to the experience.

During lunch, guests enjoy viewing the Avenue de Champagne from a scenic vantage point, making this break both delicious and visually engaging. The lunch timing allows enough leisure to relax and socialize before resuming the Champagne exploration.

Visiting the Second and Third Small Champagne Producers

Post-lunch, the tour continues with visits to two more family-owned Champagne houses. Each visit involves a short cellar tour and tastings of 3 Champagnes, totaling 6 tastings across both stops. The hosts at these wineries share their unique stories, traditions, and wine styles, providing a diverse perspective on Champagne making.

Guests can expect to taste oak barrel Champagne and explore different production techniques, which is often a favorite detail among enthusiasts. The personal interaction with the owners enhances understanding and appreciation of the craft.

The Final Champagne Tasting and Local Sights

The day concludes with a third winegrower visit, ensuring a total of 10 Champagnes tasted during the full experience. The tour also includes a drive along the scenic Champagne Avenue, offering photos of the iconic street lined with grand Champagne houses.

For those interested, the tours do not include visits to major houses like Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot, but the small producer focus guarantees a more authentic and less commercialized experience. The guide remains available to answer questions and share local insights throughout the afternoon.

The Overall Pacing and Group Experience

This private tour balances structured visits with free time for exploration and tasting. The group size of 8 ensures intimate interactions and personalized attention from the guide, who is highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The pacing is designed to avoid rushing, with ample time for each stop, tasting, and meal.

Some reviews highlight the quality of the guide, with mentions of a “master of wine” level knowledge and engaging storytelling. The luxury vehicle and hotel pickup add comfort, making the entire day smooth and enjoyable.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Small Producers and Authenticity

Unlike tours focused solely on major Champagne houses, this experience emphasizes small family-run wineries, providing a more genuine insight into Champagne-making traditions. The 10 tastings allow for a broad appreciation of different styles and flavors, often including oak barrel Champagne and other unique variations.

The lunch experience in Épernay, with a French three-course meal and Champagne, complements the wine tastings perfectly. The personalized nature of the private tour and the inclusion of expert explanations make it a standout for those wanting a detailed, relaxed, and authentic Champagne journey.

Final Thoughts on the Reims Champagne Private Tour

This full-day private experience offers a comprehensive and intimate exploration of Champagne beyond the big brands. The focus on small producers, combined with expert guides and delicious meals, results in a well-rounded day for wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

While it does not include visits to the most famous Champagne houses, the authentic charm of family-run wineries and the personalized attention make this tour highly valued. Travelers looking for a relaxed, educational, and tasteful day in Champagne will find this experience especially rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided within Reims and Épernay.

How many Champagnes are tasted during the tour?
A total of 10 Champagnes are sampled across three wineries and during the tasting sessions.

Can I visit famous Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon?
No, this tour focuses on small family-owned wineries outside Reims. For visits to major houses, contact the provider for other options.

Is the tour suitable for all ages and physical abilities?
The tour involves walking inside chapels and vineyards but is generally accessible for most travelers. It’s best to check specific accessibility requirements if needed.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked around 85 days in advance, reflecting high demand for this personalized experience.