Champagne enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the rich heritage and exquisite vintages of France’s renowned Champagne region need look no further than this exclusive Mercedes-guided tour. Combining visits to the prestigious Champagne houses of Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot, the journey promises a captivating exploration of the art and tradition behind these iconic bubbles. From tracing Ruinart’s UNESCO-listed cellars to savoring Veuve Clicquot’s renowned Vintage Brut offerings, this curated experience offers a tantalizing glimpse into the opulent world of Champagne. With Reims Cathedral’s awe-inspiring grandeur as the backdrop, the stage is set for an unforgettable day of discovery and indulgence.
Key Points
- Explore the UNESCO-listed cellars of Champagne Ruinart, the oldest Champagne house, and learn about their dedication to quality and innovation.
- Discover Veuve Clicquot’s vintage Champagnes, including the Vintage Brut 2015, Vintage Brut Rosé 2015, and the rare Vintage Brut 2002 in Magnum.
- Admire the awe-inspiring Reims Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage, after the Champagne tastings.
- Enjoy a private transportation in a luxurious Mercedes minivan or E220 for a seamless, VIP-style exploration of the Champagne region.
- Experience the meticulous attention to detail in the cavernous galleries of Ruinart’s UNESCO-listed cellars and savor their exquisite Champagnes.
Exploring Champagne Ruinart’s Heritage
Nestled in the heart of Reims, the Champagne Ruinart house proudly unveils its centuries-old legacy, inviting discerning visitors to embark on a captivating journey through the annals of French winemaking.
As the oldest Champagne house, Ruinart’s storied past is etched in the UNESCO-listed underground cellars, where the art of champagne production has been honed to perfection since 1729.
Guests will be swept away by the awe-inspiring architecture and the atmospheric tasting experience, savoring the house’s exemplary cuvées with the guidance of expert sommeliers.
From the delicate aromas to the effervescent bubbles, every sip pays homage to Ruinart’s unwavering dedication to quality and innovation, cementing its reputation as a true icon of the Champagne region.
Tasting Veuve Clicquot’s Vintage Champagnes
Champagne aficionados eagerly anticipate the opportunity to indulge in Veuve Clicquot’s exquisite vintage offerings, each bottle a testament to the house’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Guests are treated to a guided tour of the UNESCO-listed cellars, where they’ll learn about the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating these exceptional cuvées.
The Vintage Brut 2015, a vibrant and complex expression of the year’s harvest, with notes of citrus and brioche.
The Vintage Brut Rosé 2015, a delicate and delightful blend that showcases the house’s expertise in producing world-class rosé Champagne.
The Vintage Brut 2002 in Magnum, a rare and prestigious bottling that exemplifies Veuve Clicquot’s dedication to producing timeless, age-worthy Champagnes.
Guided Tour of Reims Cathedral
After indulging in the exquisite vintages of Veuve Clicquot, the group now turns their attention to the awe-inspiring Reims Cathedral, where they’ll embark on a self-guided exploration of this iconic Gothic masterpiece.
With its soaring spires and intricate stone carvings, the cathedral stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage. The visitors are free to wander through the grand nave, admiring the play of light on the stained glass windows and tracing the delicate tracery of the ribbed vaulting above.
This moment of quiet contemplation offers a serene counterpoint to the indulgent champagne tastings, allowing the group to fully appreciate the beauty and history of Reims.
Champagne House Visits in a Mercedes
A luxurious Mercedes minivan or E220 whisks guests through the picturesque French countryside, delivering them to the hallowed estates of Champagne Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot, where exceptional vintages and grand histories await.
Guests will embark on guided tours through UNESCO-listed underground cellars, learning the art of Champagne production while savoring the region’s finest offerings.
The experience culminates in curated tastings, allowing connoisseurs to discern the nuances of each maison’s signature cuvées.
This exclusive day trip from Paris offers a seamless, VIP-style exploration of the Champagne region, effortlessly blending history, luxury, and the exceptional terroir that defines these revered houses.
3 highlights of this experience:
- Private transportation in a Mercedes minivan or E220
- Guided tours of Champagne Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot estates
- Immersive Champagne tastings highlighting the region’s finest vintages
Discovering Ruinart’s UNESCO-listed Cellars
Ruinart’s storied cellars, nestled beneath the chalky slopes of Reims, beckon visitors to uncover the centuries-old secrets of Champagne’s oldest maison. Winding through the UNESCO-recognized underground network, guests are immersed in a spellbinding journey that illuminates the craft and tradition behind each bottle’s creation.
Descending into the cavernous galleries, one marvels at the meticulous attention to detail – from the precise placement of riddling racks to the hushed reverence that pervades the space.
As the guided tour unfolds, the history of this pioneering house comes alive, culminating in a tasting of two exquisite Champagnes that exemplify Ruinart’s enduring legacy of excellence.
Veuve Clicquot’s Diverse Tasting Options
Visitors who’ve marveled at Ruinart’s UNESCO-listed cellars now move on to uncover Veuve Clicquot’s diverse tasting options, each showcasing the house’s celebrated portfolio with an unparalleled level of indulgence.
From a 1.5-hour exploration of four cuvées to a luxurious 4-hour experience highlighting the Brut Carte Jaune, La Grande Dame, and La Grande Dame Rosé, the choices cater to every level of Champagne aficionado.
The jewel in the crown? A 2-hour tasting of the Vintage Brut 2015, Vintage Brut Rosé 2015, Vintage Brut 2002 in Magnum, and the renowned Cave Privée 1990 – a true masterclass in Veuve Clicquot’s peerless winemaking prowess.
Private Day Trip From Paris
This exclusive private day trip from Paris by Mercedes minivan or E220 promises an unforgettable exploration of Champagne’s most celebrated houses – Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot.
Carefully curated to indulge the senses, the journey begins with a 10 AM guided tour and tastings at the oldest Champagne house, Ruinart, before a leisurely lunch in the historic city of Reims and a self-guided visit of its iconic cathedral.
The afternoon is dedicated to the legendary Veuve Clicquot, where guests can choose from a range of tasting options to savor the house’s renowned vintages.
Capped at 11.5 hours, this meticulously planned experience provides the perfect blend of luxury, history, and gastronomy, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Champagne’s rolling vineyards.
Champagne Tour Logistics and Details
The experience begins with a convenient hotel pickup by a luxurious Mercedes minivan or E220, whisking guests away from the bustling streets of Paris to the serene Champagne region. Personalized service and tiered pricing options cater to diverse preferences, ensuring a tailored journey through the historic cellars and tasting rooms of Champagne’s most prestigious houses.
The carefully curated itinerary features:
- Guided tours and tastings at the iconic Champagne Ruinart, the oldest Champagne house, with samples of their renowned vintages.
- A leisurely lunch in the charming city of Reims, followed by a self-guided exploration of the stunning Reims Cathedral.
- An immersive visit to the legendary Veuve Clicquot, where guests can choose from a range of tasting experiences to suit their palates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Under 6 Participate in the Tour?
Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for children under 6 years old. The tour’s sophisticated nature and focus on the art of champagne tasting make it better suited for adult participants. Younger guests would likely not fully appreciate the experience.
Is the Tour Suitable for Wheelchair Users?
Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, as the itinerary includes visits to UNESCO-listed underground cellars that may pose accessibility challenges. The experience is best enjoyed by those able to navigate stairs and uneven terrain comfortably.
Can I Change the Departure Time From the Hotel?
Yes, the tour departure time can be adjusted to suit one’s schedule. The provider offers flexible pickup arrangements, allowing guests to tailor the experience to their preferences and needs for a truly bespoke Champagne journey.
Is It Possible to Visit Additional Champagne Houses?
While the provided itinerary doesn’t mention visiting additional Champagne houses, many tour operators offer more extensive Champagne tastings and excursions that could accommodate such requests. Guests should inquire about customizing the experience to suit their preferences.
Can I Customize the Tasting Options at Each Champagne House?
Yes, the tasting options at each Champagne house can be customized to suit one’s personal preferences. The experience allows guests to select from a variety of tasting packages, ensuring a bespoke and indulgent exploration of these prestigious cellars.
Recap
Immersing oneself in the rich heritage and effervescent offerings of Champagne Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot is a captivating journey.
From the UNESCO-listed cellars to the iconic vintages, this private Mercedes-led day trip from Paris offers an exquisite exploration of the Champagne region’s finest.
Visitors are enchanted by the area’s cultural treasures, including the majestic Reims Cathedral, and indulge in the exceptional tastings that exemplify the houses’ commitment to quality and innovation.