Tucked away in the heart of the Champagne region, just minutes from the famed town of Epernay, lies a family-run winery that offers an immersive experience for wine enthusiasts. At Le Clos Corbier, visitors can embark on a guided champagne tasting class that promises to unveil the nuances of this iconic French sparkling wine. But the experience doesn’t stop there – guests can also indulge in a seasonal 3-course French cuisine lunch, sipping on more champagne as they savor the flavors of the region. This intimate and informative tour provides a unique opportunity to truly appreciate the art and tradition behind one of the world’s most beloved beverages.
Key Points
- Guided champagne tasting class with blind tasting of at least three distinct champagnes from the Le Clos Corbier winery, accompanied by local snacks.
- 3-course lunch of seasonal French cuisine served in the private courtyard of the family-run Le Clos Corbier winery.
- Small-group tour limited to a maximum of 12 persons for an intimate and personalized experience.
- Opportunity to learn about the history, production, and characteristics of the region’s renowned sparkling wine.
- Flexible cancellation policy allowing guests to modify or cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance.
Overview of the Experience
This champagne tasting class and lunch experience offers visitors a chance to explore the renowned Champagne region near Epernay, France.
Guests will visit the traditional Champagne house of Le Clos Corbier, where they’ll enjoy a guided champagne class featuring a blind tasting of at least three different champagnes, accompanied by local snacks.
The small-group tour, limited to a maximum of 12 persons, provides an intimate setting in a private courtyard.
After the tasting, guests will indulge in a scrumptious 3-course lunch of seasonal French cuisine.
The experience includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees for the winery visit and tastings, ensuring a well-rounded and hassle-free adventure in the heart of Champagne country.
Champagne Tasting Class Details
Guests can expect a guided champagne tasting class that features a blind tasting of at least three different champagnes from the esteemed Le Clos Corbier winery.
The tasting is accompanied by local snacks, providing participants with an opportunity to develop their palates and appreciation for the nuanced flavors of the region’s renowned sparkling wine.
Led by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide, the class offers an intimate and interactive experience, allowing guests to learn about the history, production methods, and unique characteristics of each champagne they sample.
Whether a novice or seasoned connoisseur, attendees will leave with a deeper understanding and newfound enjoyment of this iconic French beverage.
Champagne Blind Tasting
During the champagne tasting class, participants engage in a blind tasting of at least three distinct champagnes from the renowned Le Clos Corbier winery, allowing them to hone their palates and deepen their appreciation for the region’s celebrated sparkling wine.
Guided by the expert instructor, tasters savor the champagnes without knowing the specific labels, focusing instead on identifying the unique aromas, flavors, and textures of each variety.
This challenging yet fun exercise encourages participants to trust their senses and develop their champagne expertise.
Seasonal French Cuisine Lunch
After savoring the blind tasting of Champagnes, guests move on to a scrumptious 3-course lunch showcasing seasonal French cuisine.
The intimate setting in the private courtyard of Le Clos Corbier sets the stage for a delightful dining experience.
The chef has prepared a menu highlighting the freshest local ingredients, expertly crafted into tempting dishes. Perhaps a starter of creamy mushroom soup, followed by a main course of pan-seared duck breast with roasted vegetables. To finish, a decadent chocolate tart or a selection of regional cheeses.
Throughout the meal, guests can sip on more Champagne, perfectly paired with each course. This lunch provides a wonderful opportunity to savor the flavors of the Champagne region in a tranquil, convivial atmosphere.
Intimate Courtyard Setting
In the private courtyard of Le Clos Corbier, guests dine in an intimate setting that transports them to the heart of the Champagne region. The courtyard, surrounded by the winery’s charming buildings, creates a cozy and exclusive atmosphere. A beautifully curated three-column, three-row table showcases the intricate details that make this experience so special:
| Tranquil Ambiance | Rustic Décor | Attentive Service |
|---|---|---|
| Tucked away from the bustle | Traditional wooden beams | Knowledgeable staff |
| Lush greenery and flowers | Vintage Champagne memorabilia | Personalized attention |
| Peaceful retreat from the day | Cobblestone floors | Anticipated needs |
This intimate setting allows guests to fully enjoy the Champagne lifestyle and savor every moment of the tasting experience.
Included in the Tour
The Champagne tasting class and lunch experience includes a guided tour of the family-run winery, Le Clos Corbier, where guests sample at least three different Champagnes accompanied by local snacks.
The tour also includes a scrumptious 3-course lunch of seasonal French cuisine. The experience is led by an English-speaking guide and takes place in a private courtyard setting, providing an intimate atmosphere for the tasting.
Plus, the package includes private transportation and entrance fees for the visit and tastings at the winery. With a maximum group size of 12 persons, this small-group tour offers a personalized and immersive Champagne tasting experience near the charming town of Epernay.
Meeting Point and Pickup
The meeting point for the Champagne tasting class and lunch experience is 5 Bd Nicolas François Billecart, 51160 Aÿ-Champagne, France.
Participants will be picked up at this location at 10:30 am and transported to the private winery, Le Clos Corbier, in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ.
The experience includes:
- A guided tour and Champagne tasting at the family-run winery.
- A delicious 3-course lunch of seasonal French cuisine.
- Private transportation to and from the meeting point.
After the event, guests will be dropped off back at the original meeting point, concluding the Champagne tasting class and lunch near Epernay.
Cancellation Policy
Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy ensures guests have the freedom to adjust their plans if needed. No-shows or cancellations within 24 hours will result in the full price being charged.
| Policy | Timeframe | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| Cancellation | 24+ hours | 100% |
| No-show | < 24 hours | 0% |
| Modification | 24+ hours | Allowed |
| Modification | < 24 hours | Not allowed |
This cancellation policy allows guests to book with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their plans change. The tour operator strives to provide a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Champagne to the Tasting?
No, guests are not permitted to bring their own champagne to the tasting. The experience is designed to showcase the winery’s selection through guided tastings and a set menu. Bringing outside champagne would interfere with the curated program.
Is There a Dress Code for the Champagne Tasting?
There’s no formal dress code for the champagne tasting. Guests should wear comfortable, casual attire suitable for a relaxed, intimate experience. Smart casual wear is appropriate, though formal attire isn’t necessary.
Can I Purchase Champagne From the Winery After the Tour?
Yes, visitors can purchase Champagne directly from the winery after the tour. The family-run winery offers the opportunity to buy their signature Champagnes to enjoy at home or give as gifts.
Are Children Allowed to Attend the Champagne Tasting?
Children are generally not allowed to attend the champagne tasting, as the experience is intended for adults. The tour operator does not permit participants under the legal drinking age to join the tasting and lunch portion of the activity.
Can I Extend My Stay at the Winery After the Tour Ends?
Guests can’t extend their stay at the winery after the tour ends. The experience is a set 4-hour program with a fixed end time at the Clos Corbier in Mareuil-sur-Ay. Extending the visit isn’t offered as part of this tour package.
Recap
Visitors to the Champagne region can enjoy an immersive and intimate experience at Le Clos Corbier. The family-run winery offers a guided champagne tasting class and 3-course lunch in a private courtyard setting.
Led by an English-speaking expert, the tour includes a blind tasting of distinct champagnes, accompanied by local snacks, followed by a seasonal French cuisine lunch with optional champagne pairings.
