Private Champagne Moet et Chandon Veuve Clicquot by Mercedes

A Closer Look at the Champagne Private Day Trip from Paris

If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping bubbly where it’s made and learning about the craftsmanship behind Champagne, this private tour to the region’s top houses is a tempting choice. With a focus on luxury transportation and guided cellar visits, this experience promises an immersive day in France’s sparkling heartland. It includes visits to Moet & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, two iconic Champagne brands, combined with scenic stops in charming villages and a taste of local history and scenery.

What I find particularly appealing is the use of a Mercedes E220 or minivan, which means you travel in style and comfort—no cramped bus seats here. The tour offers an English-speaking guide (although the chauffeur is not a guide), which makes navigation smooth and informative, especially if you’re a first-timer or simply want a relaxed day without the hassle of driving.

Two things stand out for me: First, the careful itinerary that balances cellar visits, scenic viewpoint stops, and a classic French lunch in Épernay, giving you a genuine taste of the region. Second, the small group/private format means you’ll avoid the bus-tour crowds and get a more intimate experience.

A possible drawback? The price of $712 per person might seem steep to some travelers, especially since meals and drinks aren’t included. But when you consider the private transport, guided cellar tours, tastings, and hotel pickup/drop-off, it provides a hassle-free, high-end experience worth the cost.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Luxury Transport: Travel in style with a Mercedes E220 or minibus, ensuring comfort for small groups or couples.
• Expert-Led Visits: Guided cellar tours at Moet & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot provide insights into Champagne production.
• Authentic Scenic Stops: Enjoy panoramic views over vineyards and visit Hautvillers village, reputed for its Champagne heritage.
• Cultural Highlights: Self-guided tour of Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned, adds historical depth.
• Flexible and Private: The experience is designed for small groups or private parties, making it more personalized.
• Value for Significance: Combined visits, tastings, transportation, and included lunch make this a comprehensive package.

Exploring the Details of the Champagne Experience

Starting Your Day with Comfort and Style

Your day begins bright and early at 07:30, with pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Paris. The 2-hour drive to the Champagne region is a pleasure in itself—imagine gliding along picturesque roads lined with vineyards and rolling hills. The coach or van is a Mercedes, which means plenty of legroom and a quiet ride. A quick rest stop en route breaks up the journey and adds a moment to stretch or grab a coffee.

Moet & Chandon: A Vintage Introduction

Arriving at Moet & Chandon around 10:00, you’ll be welcomed by knowledgeable guides leading a tour of the legendary underground cellars. The guided visit lasts about two hours, culminating in a tasting of two glasses of Champagne. As one reviewer puts it, “The cellar visit and tasting were fantastic, with a guide who knew their stuff,” highlighting the value of having a dedicated guide for this part.

The underground cellars—storing millions of bottles—are a testament to centuries of tradition. I love the way the cool, dim corridors shape the atmosphere, making you almost feel like you’re stepping into a sparkling cathedral. The tasting of two glasses gives you a true sense of the different styles produced here.

Lunch in Épernay: A French Culinary Pause

Following the Moet visit, a well-deserved lunch break is scheduled in Épernay, praised for its charm as the “Champagne Capital of France.” The included restaurant serves classic French dishes, providing a hearty counterpoint to the bubbly. This is a perfect chance to relax, chat about the morning, and savor local flavors.

Hautvillers: Champagne’s Cradle

Next, just a quick 10-minute drive takes you to Hautvillers, a village famous for its association with Dom Pérignon. Here, you’ll visit the Abbey’s Church of Sindulphe and enjoy scenic panoramic views over vineyards and the Marne River. Reviewers point out the viewpoint as among the best spots for photos and soaking in the Champagne landscape.

The cobbled streets and quaint atmosphere make Hautvillers a highlight for anyone wanting a taste of authentic village life intertwined with Champagne history.

Veuve Clicquot: Celebrating a Champagne Giant

From Hautvillers, your journey continues to Veuve Clicquot in Reims, a house established in 1772. The guided cellar tour here features a walk through vast fermentation and storage areas, with staff explaining the secrets of their production process. Tastings of two glasses of Champagne close out this visit, giving you a taste of their signature style.

According to reviews, the guided tours are very informative, with guides like “the Veuve Clicquot staff providing great insight into the history and methods of Champagne making.” It’s a chance to compare styles and appreciate the scale of Veuve Clicquot’s output—over 22 million bottles annually.

Reims Cathedral: A Touch of Royal History

Just five minutes from Veuve Clicquot, you’ll visit the Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned. The self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace, appreciating the stunning Gothic architecture and historical significance. It’s a quick but rewarding stop for history and culture enthusiasts.

Return Journey and Reflection

After a full day, you’ll depart Reims around 17:00 for Paris, arriving back at your hotel around 19:30. The 2-hour drive gives you time to reflect on the day’s highlights and perhaps make plans for your next visit.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for luxury travelers who appreciate comfort and guided insights. It suits those interested in Champagne’s history, production, and tasting, especially if you prefer a small, private group over large tour buses. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it especially appealing for visitors who want a stress-free day.

Couples, small groups of friends, or even dedicated Champagne fans will find value in the well-organized itinerary, professional guides, and personalized experience. However, if you’re on a tight budget or seeking a more casual, independent day trip, this might not be the best fit.

Considerations

Keep in mind, the price point includes premium transport, guided tours, and tastings, but meals and drinks beyond tastings are extra. It’s also not suitable for children under six or those with mobility challenges, owing to walking and sightseeing at the stops.

The Sum Up: Who Will Benefit Most?

If you’re looking for a luxurious, hassle-free way to explore Champagne’s legendary houses, this private tour offers a memorable blend of comfort, education, and authentic experience. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds, value small-group intimacy, and are eager to learn about Champagne’s traditions and tastes in a relaxed setting.

For travelers with a moderate budget, who prioritize comfort and guided insight over budget options, this experience delivers serious value. The inclusion of hotel pickup, private transport, and guided cellar visits ensures a seamless day that feels both special and informative.

However, if you’re more budget-conscious or prefer to explore independently, you might find cheaper or more flexible options. Still, for a full, curated day in the Champagne region with excellent guides and comfortable transportation—this tour is a refined way to enjoy France’s sparkling capital.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Paris at 07:30 is included in the tour.

What transportation is used?
You travel in a Mercedes E220 for small groups or a Mercedes minivan for larger groups, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Are guided tours included at the Champagne houses?
Yes, both Moet & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot offer guided cellar visits, each lasting around two hours and including tastings.

How many glasses of Champagne will I taste?
You will enjoy two glasses at Moet & Chandon and two at Veuve Clicquot, totaling four glasses during the day.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional French lunch is included in Épernay, giving you time to relax and enjoy local cuisine.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, departing early morning and returning by around 19:30.

Are meals and additional drinks included?
No, meals and drinks beyond the tastings are not included and are payable separately.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under six, mainly due to walking and the nature of the stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially since guaranteed departures are offered.

This private Champagne tour offers a tailored, comfortable way to taste and learn about France’s most famous sparkling wine. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a luxurious day out, this experience hits many marks—authenticity, comfort, and a touch of French elegance.