Reims: Big and small wineries day tour

Reims: Big and Small Wineries Day Tour — An Authentic Champagne Experience

If you’re dreaming of tasting Champagne in its birthplace, this tour from Reims offers a compelling mix of grandeur and intimacy. It’s not just about sipping bubbly; it’s about understanding the craftsmanship behind it, exploring historic cellars, and soaking up the stunning countryside. The tour promises a well-rounded day that balances visits to famous Champagne houses with small producers, making it perfect for those who want a deeper appreciation of this sparkling wine’s origins.

What drew me to this experience are two standout features: first, the chance to tour a renowned Champagne house like Mumm or Pommery, with the chance to see their impressive cellars and art exhibitions; second, the intimate visits to small, passionate producers—places where you can really feel the love and craftsmanship in every glass. A minor consideration is that transportation isn’t included; you’ll need to arrange your own taxi or Uber in Reims, which is a small extra step but no big deal.

A fun detail I appreciated is the option to choose your favorite brand for the grand house visit, though availability may influence your choice. Also, the tour’s structure allows for a delicious three-course French lunch paired with Champagne, giving you a real taste of local cuisine alongside the sparkling wines. The guide’s descriptions and the scenic drives through the UNESCO-listed vineyards add layers of enjoyment that elevate this experience beyond a simple tasting.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Iconic Champagne Houses: Visit celebrated brands like Mumm or Pommery with guided cellar tours and exhibitions.
• Small Producer Insights: Experience the craft of artisanal Champagne makers through triple tastings in intimate settings.
• Historic Cellars: Explore cellars located 30 meters underground, revealing centuries-old traditions.
• Gourmet Lunch: Savor a traditional French three-course meal paired with Champagne, enhancing the tasting experience.
• Beautiful Landscapes: Drive through the lush, rolling vineyards of the UNESCO-listed Champagne region.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve with the option to pay later and enjoy full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

An In-Depth Look at the Reims Big and Small Wineries Tour

If you’re anything like me, the idea of spending a day in Champagne’s rolling vineyards and historic cellars sounds like a dream. This tour from Reims offers just that, balancing visits to world-famous houses with small, boutique producers. The experience is designed to give you a full picture of what makes Champagne so special—its history, artistry, and the natural environment that nurtures the grapes.

Starting with the Iconic Champagne Houses

Your day begins by choosing among top-tier Champagne houses such as Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Pommery, Ruinart, Mumm, or Taittinger. If availability allows, the guide might choose for you, but you’ll always get to explore a prestigious house. I’ve always enjoyed these visits because they reveal the scale of Champagne production and its storied past.

At these grand maisons, guided tours take you through impressive cellars—some 30 meters underground—where you learn about the aging process and the history behind these legendary brands. For example, Mumm’s cellars showcase vast, vaulted tunnels, while Pommery’s art exhibitions add a modern twist to a centuries-old setting. The tastings at each house typically include two different styles of Champagne, giving you a sense of the diversity within a single house’s portfolio.

A Gourmet French Lunch Paired with Champagne

After the morning’s cellar tours, a three-course lunch with a Champagne aperitif offers a nice change of pace. Whether it’s a creamy French onion soup, succulent poultry, or a cheese plate, each dish is complemented by the bubbles. This meal isn’t just a break; it’s an integral part of the experience, highlighting how Champagne pairs beautifully with food.

Afternoon with Small Producers

The second half of the tour shifts gears—here, the focus is on small-scale winemakers in the Montagne de Reims. These artisans pour their passion into every bottle, and you’ll get to see their pressing, vinification, and cellar aging processes firsthand. Sharing their stories while tasting three different Champagnes at each small producer makes the experience very personal and memorable.

One reviewer appreciated this part, noting, “You can really feel the love these small producers have for their craft—it’s authentic and inspiring.” This segment provides a rare glimpse into the artisanal side of Champagne, often hidden behind the walls of big brands.

Scenic Drive and Natural Beauty

Throughout the day, the tour meanders through the UNESCO-listed Champagne countryside—a patchwork of vineyards, charming villages, and rolling hills. The views alone make this a worthwhile journey, and it’s a chance to appreciate the region’s natural beauty while understanding the landscape’s influence on the wine.

Practical Details and Value

The tour’s cost covers admission to two Champagne houses with art exhibitions and tastings, a guided tour of Mumm, and a self-guided visit to Pommery, plus the delicious lunch. It’s a well-rounded package considering the time, travel, and inclusions. Keep in mind, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to organize your own taxi or Uber in Reims.

The tour lasts about 7 hours, which is plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. It’s friendly for private groups, and the small-group format means you’ll get personalized attention and be able to ask plenty of questions—something I really value.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just a tasting. If you’re curious about the craftsmanship, history, and scenery of Champagne, this tour delivers a comprehensive and enjoyable overview. It’s perfect for couples, food lovers, and anyone eager to connect with the region’s authentic side. Those on a tighter schedule might find the full day a bit long but still rewarding.

Price and Logistics

While not the cheapest option, the price reflects the quality and variety of experiences packed in—visits to both large and small producers, a gourmet lunch, and scenic drives. It’s a good value for those wanting a well-organized, authentic day in Champagne, especially since you skip the lines and have a live guide speaking English and French.

Just remember, you need to arrange your own transport in Reims, but with Uber and taxis available, that’s usually simple.

Conclusions: Is This Tour For You?

This big and small wineries day tour from Reims offers a well-balanced, deeply satisfying dive into Champagne. You get to see the grand scale of the big houses, with their historic cellars and art exhibits, and then connect with passionate small producers who pour their heart into every bottle. The inclusion of a delicious meal and scenic vistas makes it a true taste of the region.

If you’re seeking an authentic, educational, and enjoyable Champagne experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and beautiful scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those who want a rundown without sacrificing intimacy or uniqueness.

This tour may not be ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more casual, less structured experience—but for most wine lovers, it offers a splendid day in the birthplace of bubbly.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead ensures you get your preferred date and the chance to choose available Champagne houses and small producers.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrange your own ride in Reims using taxis or Uber.

Can I visit my favorite Champagne house?
You can choose your preferred house if available; otherwise, the guide will select for you. The main houses include Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Pommery, Ruinart, Mumm, or Taittinger.

What’s the size of the group?
It’s a private group experience, which means you’ll enjoy personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Are the tastings included?
Yes, tastings at the Champagne houses and small producers are part of the tour, with multiple Champagnes sampled at each stop.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a three-course French meal paired with Champagne is included, making this a full-day experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for cellar tours and outdoor views are recommended; dress according to the weather since you’ll be traveling through scenic countryside.

In the end, this tour offers a thoughtful blend of history, craftsmanship, and scenery—a true taste of Champagne’s soul. It’s a wonderful choice for those eager to dive deeper than just popping a cork and want to understand the artistry behind each bubbly glass.