Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of France’s Champagne region. This private gold tasting tour takes you beyond the velvet ropes, immersing you in the enchanting world of family-owned vineyards and time-honored traditions that define the region’s iconic sparkling wine. From the rolling hills of Reims or Epernay, discover the exceptional terroir and savor the nuanced flavors that have elevated Champagne to legendary status. With exclusive tastings, picturesque drives, and an indulgent lunch, this tour promises to elevate your appreciation for the art of winemaking. Prepare to be captivated as you uncover the secrets behind the bubbles.
Key Points
- Discover renowned Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards and villages in the Champagne region on this private full-day tour from Reims or Epernay.
- Enjoy Champagne tastings at two family-owned estates and learn about the history, production methods, and unique terroir of the exceptional sparkling wines.
- Visit the Hautvillers Abbey, Dom Pérignon’s grave, and the iconic Avenue de Champagne in Epernay to immerse in the region’s rich history and culture.
- Indulge in a convivial Champagne-paired lunch featuring locally-sourced seasonal dishes at one of the family-run estates.
- Flexible pickup and drop-off locations from Reims, Epernay, or the Champagne-Ardenne TGV station ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Tour Overview
This private full-day tour from Epernay or Reims allows visitors to discover renowned Grand Cru and Premier Cru villages and vineyards, with the opportunity to visit two family growers and enjoy Champagne tastings.
Guests will learn the history of Champagne and its exceptional terroir while exploring the region’s famous vineyards and villages.
The tour includes a visit to the church where Dom Pérignon’s grave is located in Hautvillers, as well as a commented passage through the iconic Avenue de Champagne in Epernay.
With premium transportation, a passionate local guide, and a convivial Champagne lunch, this tour offers an immersive and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Champagne region.
Highlights of the Tour
Visitors on this tour will discover famous vineyards and villages in Champagne near Epernay, seeing the region’s renowned terroir and history. They’ll enjoy tastings of exceptional Champagnes at two independent producers, learning about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of the Grand Cru and Premier Cru varietals. The tour also includes a visit to Hautvillers Abbey, where the legendary Dom Pérignon is buried, and a passage down the iconic Avenue de Champagne in Epernay. Throughout the day, guests will savor the finest Champagne and regional aperitifs, all while accompanied by a passionate local guide.
| Highlights |
|---|
| Discover famous vineyards and villages in Champagne |
| Enjoy Champagne tastings at 2 independent producers |
| Visit Hautvillers Abbey and Dom Pérignon’s grave |
| Pass through the iconic Avenue de Champagne in Epernay |
| Sample essential Champagne alcohols and aperitifs |
Itinerary Breakdown
The tour kicks off with a visit and guided tour of the storied Hautvillers Abbey, where the legendary Dom Pérignon is laid to rest.
Guests then explore the charming village of Hautvillers, indulging in a Champagne tasting to enjoy the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
Continuing on, the tour makes a scenic stop in Aÿ-Champagne, offering picture-perfect views of the vineyards.
Next, it’s off to Cramant for a delightful Champagne-paired lunch, followed by more tastings at an independent producer in Oger.
The grand finale features a drive along the prestigious Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, capping off a day of unparalleled access to the most renowned Champagne houses and terroirs.
Champagne Tastings
Throughout the tour, guests indulge in a captivating journey of Champagne tastings, sampling a diverse array of Grand Cru and Premier Cru vintages handpicked from renowned family growers.
At each winery, the passionate local guide offers insightful commentary on the history, production methods, and unique terroir that defines these exceptional sparkling wines.
From the crisp, mineral-driven blanc de blancs to the rich, complex rosés, every sip provides a revelation of Champagne’s complexity and elegance.
Guests also have the opportunity to taste rare, limited-edition cuvées and savor the nuanced flavors of Champagne-based aperitifs, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience for true connoisseurs.
Visits and Guided Tours
Captivating guided tours immerse guests in the rich history and time-honored traditions of Champagne’s renowned vineyards and villages.
Visitors will explore the picturesque town of Hautvillers, where the legendary Dom Pérignon once lived and worked. They’ll step inside the hallowed Abbey and learn about his pioneering role in developing the méthode champenoise.
The tour also includes a drive along the prestigious Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, home to many prestigious Champagne houses.
At family-run estates, guests enjoy behind-the-scenes access, discovering the art of blending and aging these effervescent wines.
Whether visiting the village of Cramant or Oger, these intimate experiences offer unparalleled insights into Champagne’s rich terroir and vibrant culture.
Convivial Champagne Lunch
A convivial Champagne lunch awaits guests, providing a delightful respite during the day’s explorations. Served at one of the family-run estates, this indulgent meal pairs a carefully curated bottle of Champagne with seasonal, locally-sourced dishes that celebrate the region’s rich culinary traditions.
The meal begins with a selection of artisanal cheeses, freshly baked breads, and charcuterie, all complemented by the lively effervescence of the Champagne.
For the main course, guests can expect a beautifully plated dish highlighting the bounty of the Champagne terroir, such as roasted chicken with mushrooms or a decadent beef bourguignon.
To conclude the lunch, a dessert course featuring seasonal fruits or a classic crème brûlée will leave guests feeling satisfied and immersed in the convivial spirit of Champagne.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
The tour offers a range of convenient pickup and drop-off locations, ensuring guests can seamlessly access the Champagne region’s renowned delights.
Travelers can choose to begin their journey from the Reims Touristic Office, the Gare d’Epernay, the Office de Tourisme d’Epernay en Champagne, the Champagne-Ardenne TGV station, or directly from Reims, with the option to return to any of these designated locations at the tour’s conclusion.
This flexibility allows guests to tailor their experience, whether arriving by train, car, or from their accommodations in the heart of the Champagne vineyards.
With hassle-free transportation taken care of, the focus remains on immersing oneself in the rich history and exquisite flavors that define this iconic French wine region.
Tour Duration and Logistics
This immersive Gold Champagne Tasting Tour spans 7 to 8 hours, providing ample time for guests to savor the region’s renowned vineyards, history, and of course, its exceptional champagnes.
The tour begins with convenient pickups from key locations in Reims and Epernay, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s adventures.
The itinerary includes:
- Exploring the famed vineyards and villages of the Champagne region, including the birthplace of Dom Pérignon.
- Indulging in multiple champagne tastings at two independent producers, where guests can discover the nuances of this world-renowned sparkling wine.
- Enjoying a convivial champagne-paired lunch, adding to the immersive and authentic Champagne experience.
With private transportation and a passionate local guide, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the enchanting world of Champagne.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your preferences. The private nature of the experience allows you to tailor the itinerary, tastings, and activities to match your interests and schedule, ensuring an exceptional Champagne journey tailored just for you.
Are Any Food Options Available During the Tastings?
Yes, the tour includes a convivial Champagne lunch with a bottle of Champagne for every 2 guests. This provides an opportunity to enjoy essential Champagne-related aperitifs and alcoholic beverages during the tastings.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?
You don’t need any special equipment for this Champagne tour. The private guide will provide all the necessary glassware and accessories needed for the tastings. Just bring your excitement and palate to fully enjoy the Champagne experience.
What Happens if I Need to Cancel or Reschedule the Tour?
If guests need to cancel or reschedule the tour, they’ll have the flexibility to do so. They’ll simply need to contact the tour provider in advance to make any necessary changes without penalty. The provider aims to accommodate guests’ needs.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs?
The tour includes all fees and costs in the package price, so there are no hidden fees or additional charges. The extensive inclusions cover pickup, tastings, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Recap
This private Champagne tasting tour offers an unforgettable journey through the renowned vineyards of the Champagne region.
Guests will savor captivating tastings, discover the exceptional terroir, and indulge in a convivial Champagne-paired lunch, culminating in a visit to the prestigious Avenue de Champagne in Epernay.
It’s an immersive experience that captures the history, traditions, and exceptional quality that define this iconic sparkling wine.
