3 days in Champagne – “Aromas” experience

Our review of the 3-day “Aromas” experience in Champagne focuses on a comprehensive journey through the region’s celebrated wineries and hidden gems. This guided tour offers a mix of visits to iconic maisons like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Pommery, as well as intimate encounters with small-scale producers. It’s tailored for those eager to deepen their knowledge of Champagne, taste rare vintages, and enjoy the region’s charming landscapes.

Two things I particularly like about this experience are the opportunity to taste rare vintage Champagnes—including old bottles up to 25 years—and the chance to meet real winemakers behind the scenes. This adds a personal touch that’s often missing in larger, less personalized tours. Plus, the variety—the balance between grand maisons and boutique producers—means you get both the scale and the craft.

A potential drawback is the price—at nearly $3,000 per person, it’s a significant investment. While the inclusion of seven tastings each day, private transport, and lunch help justify the cost, travelers should be prepared for the overall expense and consider if a more budget-friendly option might suit their style if they prefer a smaller or more casual experience.

Key Points / Takeaways

• In-depth experience: The tour balances visits to big Champagne houses with private tastings at small producers, offering a well-rounded perspective.
• Expert guides: Stéphane, the host, is frequently praised for his knowledge and personalized approach, making the experience feel tailored and engaging.
• Unique tastings: You’ll sample rare, old vintages, and Champagnes with still wines from French oak barrels, making it a memorable tasting adventure.
• Authentic encounters: Meeting real winemakers provides insights into their craft and the chance to taste distinctive regional styles.
• Stunning scenery: The drive through UNESCO-listed vineyards, Verzy forest, and the village of Dom Pérignon adds charm and visual delight.
• Luxury and convenience: Private transportation, pickup, and scheduled visits mean you can relax and focus on enjoying Champagne, not logistics.

The 3-Day Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

Day 1: Exploring the Grandeur of Champagne Houses

Starting with Champagnes Pommery, Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, and Champagne Mercier, this day provides an iconic introduction to the region’s most famous producers. Each house has its own style and history. For example, Pommery’s cellars feature the world’s largest bottles aging in underground vaults, and the cellar visit by small train at Mercier is a playful touch—no tiring walking here.

Expect to spend about two hours at Pommery, where you’ll see the old vinification center and taste in the historic cellar. At Veuve Clicquot, you’ll visit their shop and enjoy a tasting room experience. Moët & Chandon offers a more extensive cellar tour, including a chance to admire the opulent shop with bottles like Dom Pérignon. The day wraps up with a stroll along Avenue de Champagne, where the elegant houses line up like a fairy tale boulevard.

Day 2: Meeting Small Producers & Scenic Vistas

This day shifts focus to boutique wineries and lesser-known villages. Visiting a Grand Cru village in Sermiers, you get a behind-the-scenes look at a private winery, where the winemaker will personally guide you through pressing, vinification, and tasting four different Champagnes. This intimate experience is highly praised; one reviewer called their guide “fabulous in every way.”

Further, in Rilly-la-Montagne, you’ll meet a “1er cru” producer, learning about their unique approach compared to larger maisons. Tasting wines from different villages highlights the regional diversity and complexity of Champagne.

Driving through the UNESCO-listed Verzy Forest offers a scenic break, with lush vineyards and rocky landscapes, giving you a real sense of the region’s natural beauty. The day ends with a brief stop at Reims Cathedral, where the French kings were crowned—a symbolic and historical highlight.

Day 3: Rare Champagnes & Unique Locations

The final day is where things get especially special. You’ll meet a winemaker in Beaumont-sur-Vesle, renowned for crafting one of the top Chardonnay wines in the world. Here, tasting wines straight from the oak barrels offers a fresh perspective on Champagne’s diversity—still wines, not sparkling.

Next, in Verzenay, a retired winemaker shares bottles up to 25 years old, opening a window to Champagne’s aging potential. You’ll learn the fascinating differences between young and mature Champagnes, as well as the aromas that develop over time—an experience praised by reviewers as “understanding the aromas.”

The village of Hautvillers, famously linked to Dom Pérignon, provides picturesque charm and a sense of history. The day ends with a scenic drive along the Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, soaking in the region’s legendary reputation.

Analyzing the Value and Experience

While $2,903.61 might seem steep, the value hinges on what’s included: 21 tastings, private transportation, and meals. Many reviews highlight how guides like Stéphane elevate the experience—his knowledge and personal touch make a significant difference. The fact that most travelers book this 251 days in advance suggests it’s highly popular among Champagne enthusiasts.

The tour’s structure, combining big houses and intimate producers, offers a balanced perspective. You won’t just see the glitz of the major brands but also gain insight into the craftsmanship behind small-scale, often family-run operations.

The inclusion of rare vintage tastings and still wines provides an educational edge, especially for those interested in the aging process and regional differences. Plus, the scenic drives and visits to historic sites like Reims Cathedral add cultural depth.

Who This Tour is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who want an immersive, comprehensive view of Champagne and are willing to invest time and money. It’s perfect for serious wine lovers, those curious about the production process, and anyone wanting a luxurious, private experience with knowledgeable guides. If your goal is to see the region’s highlights without worrying about logistics, this will suit you perfectly.

Who Should Consider Other Options

If you prefer a more casual or budget-friendly Champagne tour, or are traveling solo on a tight schedule, you might find other offerings more suitable. Also, if you’re not particularly interested in rare vintages or small producers, the value may decrease.

Practical Details: Logistics & Tips

• Duration and booking: At three days, this tour provides an in-depth experience, with most tours booked nearly a year in advance.
• Transportation: Private, included, ensuring comfort and convenience; no need to worry about navigating.
• Group size: Private tour, so it’s tailored to your group—more personalized attention.
• Meals: Three lunches are included, allowing you to focus on wine and scenery rather than meal planning.
• Price: While on the higher end, the cost reflects the personalized approach, exclusive tastings, and private transport.

Tips for Travelers

• Dress comfortably but stylishly—many tastings are in elegant cellars and wineries.
• Bring a notebook or camera—there are many photo-worthy moments.
• Be prepared for a full, busy schedule—each day is packed with visits, tastings, and scenic drives.
• Consider extending your trip if you want more time exploring Reims or Epernay at leisure.

FAQ

Is pickup offered? Yes, private transportation is included, making it easy to start your adventure stress-free.

How many tastings are included? You’ll taste 21 different Champagnes across the three days, including rare vintages and still wines.

Are the visits private? Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group participates, providing a more personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book? Most travelers book about 251 days ahead, indicating high demand.

Are lunches included? Yes, three lunches are included in the price, allowing you to enjoy regional cuisine alongside your Champagne tastings.

Is this suitable for non-wine drinkers? The focus is on Champagne, but the region’s scenic and cultural sights are accessible to all, and the tastings can be skipped if needed.

Can I customize the itinerary? The guide, Stéphane, is known for tailoring the tour to guests’ interests, so feel free to discuss your preferences.

What about accommodation? This tour does not include lodging; you’ll need to arrange your stay separately.

To sum it up, this 3-day “Aromas” experience offers a detailed and intimate immersion into Champagne’s world—perfect for those eager to learn, taste, and enjoy the region’s beauty with expert guidance. If you’re ready for a luxurious, educational journey that combines history, scenery, and exceptional wines, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for dedicated wine lovers and travelers who seek a private, well-structured adventure.