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An authentic journey through the heart of Champagne
This full-day small-group tour offers a chance to explore the Champagne region of France beyond the big-name maisons. Instead of visiting only the giant champagne houses, you’ll spend your day with passionate family-run wineries, tasting a variety of unique, smaller producer champagnes. Led by an expert English-speaking guide, this experience combines history, culture, and delicious bubbles in a relaxed, intimate setting.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on small producers, offering a more personal, behind-the-scenes look at what truly makes Champagne special. The scenic drives, insightful commentary, and delicious lunch make it a well-rounded experience. A potential drawback? The long drives between wineries mean some gaps in tasting, but the trade-off is the depth of authentic experience you get.
This tour is perfect for those who love wine and want a genuine taste of Champagne’s diversity — from small, family-run wineries to the historic sites of Reims and Epernay. If you’re after a relaxed, informative day with plenty of tastings and authentic stories, this tour should be on your list.
Key Points
- Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention with a maximum of 8 people.
- Visit three family-run wineries outside of the larger Champagne houses for a more authentic experience.
- Tastings include nine champagnes throughout the day, highlighting different styles and producers.
- A delicious three-course lunch with a glass of Champagne adds value to the experience.
- Comfortable Mercedes minivans with air-conditioning make the day smooth and relaxing.
- Expert guides like Christophe and Xavier are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
Looking for more options in Reims? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
What to Expect from the Itinerary
Stop 1: Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers
Your journey begins with a walk through the historic Church of Dom Pérignon in Hautvillers, where you’ll learn about the monk credited with perfecting champagne production. The guide will explain Dom Pérignon’s role and his connection to the region, with admission included. Expect a 15-minute visit that sets a meaningful tone for the day, blending history with the tasting experience ahead.
Stop 2: Why Not — A Family-Run Champagne Producer and Restaurant
Next, you’ll head to a cozy local restaurant, Why Not, for a 1.5-hour stop. Here, you’ll be served a three-course meal featuring starter, main, and dessert, each paired with a glass of Champagne. Reviewers highlight the delicious food and generous tastings, making this a highlight for many. The guide will share insights into the food and wine pairing process, adding a layer of appreciation.
Stop 3: Avenue de Champagne and Small Growers
After lunch, you’ll cruise along the famous Avenue de Champagne in Epernay. This scenic drive showcases the grandeur of Champagne’s heritage, with stops to admire the lush vineyards and the architecture of the region’s historic wineries. You’ll spend around 1.5 hours exploring smaller, family-run wineries outside of the big brands like Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot.
Wineries and Tastings
Throughout the day, you’ll visit three different producers, each offering tastings of three to four champagnes. The focus on small growers means you’ll enjoy a variety of styles, from crisp, fresh Blanc de Blancs to richer, more complex blends. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, like Matisse and Christophe, for their ability to explain the nuances of each champagne, making the tastings both enjoyable and educational.
Transportation and Comfort
You’ll travel in a Mercedes minivan with air conditioning, which ensures comfort during the long drives between stops. The tour is designed for a maximum of eight travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere that encourages questions and interaction. Most reviewers mention that the transportation is smooth, with some appreciating the chance to relax while soaking in the scenic views.
What Makes This Tour Worthwhile?
Authentic, Small-Producer Focus
Unlike the large, commercial champagne houses, this tour zeroes in on family-owned wineries. Visitors consistently comment on how this approach provides a more genuine understanding of Champagne’s craft. Reviewers like Simone W. appreciated the “detailed and historical” insights and were delighted to visit smaller producers that are less touristy.
Expert Guides and Personal Touch
Guests often note the enthusiasm and knowledge of guides like Xavier, Christophe, and Matisse. They are praised for their patience, storytelling, and willingness to answer even the most technical questions. As one reviewer pointed out, “He was extremely knowledgeable about the history and the making of champagne.” This personal approach turns a standard tasting into a meaningful experience.
Tasting Variety and Quality
With nine champagnes sampled throughout the day, you’ll get a broad view of what different small growers produce. Many mention that the champagnes tasted were delicious and diverse, with a notable emphasis on quality and authenticity. Several guests especially appreciated trying less familiar varieties not found in larger houses.
Value for Money
At $284.38 per person, this tour offers exceptional value. It includes the transportation, guided commentary, tastings, and a three-course lunch — components that would cost significantly more if booked separately. Several reviews highlight the generous tastings and the opportunity to purchase bottles directly from producers, making it a well-rounded experience for the price.
Practical Details
Duration and Group Size
The 8-hour tour is just enough time to explore, taste, and enjoy without feeling rushed. The small-group limit of 8 people fosters a cozy, friendly environment, ideal for those who prefer more personal interactions and fewer crowds.
Meeting Point and Accessibility
The tour starts at Cour de la Gare in Reims at 9:30 am. It’s near public transportation, making it easy to access. The tour ends back at the meeting point, so plan your day accordingly. Note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so coordination from your hotel may be necessary.
Booking and Cancellation
Booking is straightforward, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
The Verdict: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This small-group Champagne tour is a top choice for travelers who want to experience the region’s authentic producers without the crowds or commercial vibe of the large houses. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxed yet informative day. The focus on small family-run producers offers a rare glimpse into Champagne’s craftsmanship.
If you’re looking for a well-rounded day that balances tastings, scenic drives, and cultural insights, this tour delivers. The knowledgeable guides and delicious lunch enhance the value, making it a memorable experience. However, if you prefer visiting the iconic, large Champagne houses or want a more fast-paced schedule, you might want to explore other options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children and babies are not allowed on this tour, as it is designed for adults who can participate in tastings and appreciate the experience.
Does the tour include visits to famous maisons like Moët & Chandon?
No, this tour focuses exclusively on small, family-run wineries outside the large, well-known Champagne houses.
Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll be served a three-course meal at a local restaurant, with a glass of Champagne, coffee, and water included.
What kind of champagnes will I taste?
You’ll sample nine different champagnes across three wineries, giving you a broad sense of styles, from crisp whites to richer blends.
How long are the drives between stops?
The longest drive is roughly 20 minutes, mainly to showcase different producers spread out across the region. The scenic drives are part of the charm.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 guests, ensuring a personalized experience.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time. If canceled earlier, a full refund is issued.
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, you’ll travel in a luxurious, air-conditioned Mercedes minivan, making the long day comfortable and stress-free.
This small-group Champagne tour from Reims offers a genuinely immersive experience into the world of small, family-run wineries. With knowledgeable guides, delicious tastings, and a scenic, relaxed pace, it’s ideal for travelers who want to see beyond the big brands and enjoy a more personal connection to Champagne’s craftsmanship. The value for money is excellent, especially considering the included tastings, lunch, and transportation.
If you’re after an authentic, educational, and tasty adventure in Champagne, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a more intimate experience. Just be prepared for the long drives between producers and come ready to savor some of the region’s finest small-batch champagnes.
