Reims: Veuve Clicquot and Family-Run Winery Day Tour & Lunch

Reims: Veuve Clicquot and Family-Run Winery Day Tour & Lunch – A Deep Dive into Champagne

Exploring the Champagne region often involves visiting the big-name houses, but this tour offers something a little more personal and layered. Based in Reims, it blends prestige with authenticity, taking you inside Veuve Clicquot’s famed cellars, then into the charming villages and small family wineries that keep the region’s character alive. The 7.5-hour journey offers a satisfying mix of famous sights, intimate visits, and, of course, plenty of bubbly.

What makes this experience stand out for me—and for many travelers—is the way it balances big-name Champagne houses with the charm of family-run producers. The guided visits, especially at Veuve Clicquot, are informative without feeling overly commercial. Plus, the lunch at a smaller estate offers a real taste of local hospitality.

One thing to consider is the price of $376 per person, which might sound steep, but it includes nine Champagne tastings and a hearty, expertly paired lunch. For those who love good wine and want a well-rounded experience, this is often worth the splurge. The only potential drawback? The day is quite structured, so if you prefer a completely free-form exploration, this might feel a little regimented. Still, the small group size—limited to 8 participants—keeps things intimate and personal.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Balance: Combines visits to a renowned Champagne house and a family-run winery for a genuine taste of the region.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Leah, Suzanne, or Xavier are consistently praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Stunning Views & Photos: The stop in Hautvillers offers breathtaking vistas perfect for capturing memories.
• Tasting Variety: Nine glasses of Champagne ensure you leave with a real sense of the range and nuances of this iconic drink.
• Delicious Lunch: A thoughtfully prepared meal at a local estate complements the tastings, accommodating dietary needs upon request.
• Comfort & Convenience: The air-conditioned minivan and organized itinerary make the day smooth and stress-free.

Entering the Heart of Champagne: The Veuve Clicquot Experience

Starting at Veuve Clicquot’s visitor center, you’ll enjoy a guided tour that pulls back the curtain on this historic house. The cellars are vast, cool, and atmospheric, with centuries of Champagne aging quietly in underground chalk caves. You’ll learn about Mme. Clicquot’s innovative techniques and the house’s century-spanning legacy. The highlight? Sampling 4 different cuvées at the end—each offering a unique expression of Champagne’s complexity.

Many reviews rave about this part of the tour. “Our guide, Leah, was fabulous,” one guest recalls, emphasizing how her enthusiasm made the visit lively and accessible. If Veuve Clicquot isn’t available, the tour team swaps it for another prestigious house, ensuring quality and insight remain high.

Strolling Through Hautvillers – The Village of Dom Pérignon

From the grand Champagne house, you’ll head to Hautvillers, the picturesque village where Dom Pérignon once studied and experimented. The narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and sweeping vineyard views make it a photographer’s dream. You’ll get a guided walk, learning about the monk’s influence on Champagne production and enjoying the stunning viewpoints perfect for photos.

Reviewers consistently mention the beauty of Hautvillers, with one commenting, “The views are breathtaking, and it’s fascinating to walk in the footsteps of history.” This stop adds a cultural layer to the tasting-heavy day, making it more than just a drinking tour.

A Small, Family-Run Winery – The Authentic Touch

Midday, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch at a family-owned Champagne estate, where the personal touch shines through. This isn’t just a quick bite—expect a well-curated menu paired expertly with select Champagnes. Dietary restrictions are accommodated if noted in advance, making it accessible for all.

Later, you’ll visit a small, family-run Champagne house, offering an insider’s view into the craftsmanship behind every bottle. These visits often feel more genuine than the larger, corporate houses, giving you insights into small-batch production and the passionate people behind the bubbles.

Tasting and Learning – The Art of Champagne

Throughout the day, you’ll taste a total of nine glasses—a generous number that allows you to compare styles, sweetness levels, and finesse. The guides provide engaging, quick lessons on how to taste Champagne properly, turning a casual sip into a fun, educational experience that even casual drinkers will appreciate.

One guest raved, “Thomas made our day unforgettable with his enthusiasm and knowledge.” Many reviewers mention how these tastings deepen their appreciation for Champagne, especially after learning about the different grapes, terroirs, and aging processes.

Comfort, Transportation, and Timing

You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan, with pickup options at Reims or Epernay train stations. The day’s structure ensures you see the highlights without feeling rushed, with actual timings carefully planned—for example, 1.5 hours at Veuve Clicquot and over 1 hour for the family winery. The tour ends back at the train stations around 5:30 PM, making it easy to continue your journey.

The small group size—no more than 8—means you get personalized attention and the chance to ask plenty of questions. Many guests mention how guides like Xavier or Suzanne bring the region to life with stories and insights.

Price and Value Analysis

At $376, this tour does seem a bit pricey, but it includes 9 tastings, a proper meal, private visits, and expert guides—collectively delivering value for wine lovers or those eager for an immersive experience. If you consider the cost of individual tastings at wineries, plus a quality lunch, this package feels more than fair.

The tour is also very well-organized, removing the hassle of planning transport, reservations, and navigating the region on your own. Plus, the opportunity to visit both a major house and small producers offers a well-rounded perspective.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive Champagne day without the fuss of self-planning. Wine enthusiasts will love the variety and depth of tastings, while history and culture fans will appreciate the story-rich stops like Hautvillers. It’s suited for those comfortable with a full day on the move and with an interest in learning about both the big brands and small, family-run estates.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, but older kids with an interest in wine or history could enjoy the picturesque villages and scenic views. The small-group setting makes it perfect for couples or small groups seeking an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Reims Champagne Tour

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, starting around 8:30 or 9:20 AM, depending on your pickup location, and ends around 4:45 or 5:30 PM.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan between stops, with pickup and drop-off at designated train stations or tourist offices.

How many Champagne tastings are included?
You’ll enjoy a total of nine glasses, covering a mix of major and family-run producers, giving you plenty of variety.

What does the lunch consist of?
The lunch is at a family-owned Champagne estate, thoughtfully prepared and paired with Champagne. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated if noted when booking.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best for those over 10 years old and comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, walking, and tasting. The small group size adds a personal touch that’s appreciated by many guests.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 7 days in advance.

What should I bring?
A light jacket is recommended since the cellar temperature is around 10°C. Comfortable shoes and a camera are also a good idea for exploring Hautvillers and taking photos.

Is there any flexibility in the schedule?
The itinerary is quite structured, but the guides are friendly and happy to answer questions or make small adjustments as needed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic way to get a true taste of Champagne, blending world-famous houses with small, family-run wineries. It’s perfect for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of how Champagne is made while enjoying a day of scenic views, engaging stories, and, of course, lots of bubbly. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge elevate the experience, making even the most seasoned wine lover feel like a local.

If you’re visiting Reims or Epernay and want a comprehensive, well-organized day that combines history, culture, and delicious wine, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a fine choice for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to explore Champagne beyond the usual tourist traps—and come away with memorable stories and a few bottles to take home.