Champagne experience with a vintage van from Epernay – 3 hours

A Charming Vintage Van Tour Through Champagne’s Hidden Gems

If you’re dreaming of exploring France’s most bubbly-filled region in a relaxed and authentic way, this 3-hour Champagne experience from Épernay could be just what you’re after. Hosted by My Vintage Tour Company, this adventure takes you in an eye-catching Renault Estafette van — think vintage charm meets modern taste — as you uncover the secrets behind Champagne production, visit picturesque villages, and sample some of the best local bubbly.

One thing we particularly love about this tour is its focus on small, family-run wineries. Unlike big-name Champagne houses, these smaller producers often hold onto traditions and produce truly authentic, craft Champagne. Plus, the intimate size of the tour — capped at just seven people — means you get personalized attention and a more relaxed, engaging experience.

A potential consideration is that the tour emphasizes visits to vineyards, small wineries, and countryside drives, rather than extensive Champagne house tours. If you’re expecting a deep dive into the history of brands like Moët & Chandon, this might feel more like a local, behind-the-scenes look rather than a grand Champagne estate visit.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences, scenic drives, and small-group intimacy over large crowds or commercialized attractions. It’s perfect for wine lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet informative Champagne adventure.

Key Points

Authentic, small-group experience with personalized attention
Visiting lesser-known wineries provides genuine insights into Champagne making
Scenic countryside and village stops offer beautiful photo opportunities and local flavor
Expert guides like Maeva and Justine are praised for their knowledge and friendliness
Tasting three different Champagne varieties deepens understanding of production styles
Vintage van ride adds fun and nostalgic charm to the journey

The Experience in Detail

This 3-hour tour from Épernay is a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, education, and tasting, designed to give you a genuine sense of Champagne’s charm beyond the usual tourist spots. Starting at the historic ‘Avenue de Champagne’ in Épernay, you’ll cruise past iconic Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon, Pol Roger, Mercier, and De Venoge. The guide shares fascinating stories about this legendary street, renowned for housing some of the world’s most famous Champagne producers. We loved how the driver handled the vintage Renault Estafette — it’s a real head-turner and adds a layer of fun to the journey.

The first stop takes you into the village of Aÿ-Champagne, a place that oozes character and traditional Charm. Passing in front of notable houses like Deutz and Bollinger, you’ll hear about their histories and production techniques. But the real highlight is the chance to step into the vineyards themselves. Here, you’ll take photos of stunning landscapes, and your guide explains the work involved throughout the year — from pruning to harvest. As one review captures, “We drove through idyllic villages and enjoyed stunning scenery from the top of a vineyard overlooking Épernay,” making this part of the tour a visual feast.

Next, the tour ventures into Oger, a village classified as Grand Cru, which is a serious badge of honor in Champagne territory. What makes this stop special is the visit to a small family-run Champagne cellar. Unlike the large commercial houses, these producers often have a story to tell about their craft, their land, and their dedication. You’ll see the winery machinery and learn about the Champagne-making process firsthand. The tasting here is a highlight — three glasses of Champagne, each with its own character, offering a taste of the diversity within a single producer’s portfolio. As one reviewer said, “Marcel the van was the star,” emphasizing how the vintage ride and personal touches elevate the experience.

Trip logistics are thoughtfully organized. Pickup is available at the meeting point, and the tour maintains a size cap of just seven travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The entire experience is approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching half-day activity. The price of roughly $92.89 per person is reasonable considering the inclusion of vineyard visits, a cellar tour, and tastings — especially given the personalized, off-the-beaten-path nature of the experience.

Why This Tour Excels

The standout feature of this tour is its focus on small producers and less-known vineyards. This offers a more authentic and less commercialized perspective on Champagne making, which many seasoned wine enthusiasts appreciate. As one reviewer noted, “More relaxed and authentic than bigger tours,” the small group setting fosters a genuine connection with guides like Maeva and Justine.

The guides’ expertise and friendliness are frequently praised. Maeva, in particular, is described as passionate and knowledgeable, eager to answer questions and share her love for Champagne. Her storytelling enriches each stop, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The vintage van ride adds a nostalgic, fun element that sets this tour apart. It’s not just transportation; it’s part of the experience. Visitors love the charm of the retro vehicle, even if it has no seatbelts or suspension — it’s all about the authentic, rustic vibe.

The scenery is another highlight. Expect idyllic villages, lush vineyards, and panoramic views from the top of the hills. The combination of driving through the countryside and stopping at select vineyards offers a relaxed pace that feels more like a local adventure than a touristy checklist.

Tasting three glasses of Champagne provides a well-rounded introduction to different styles and flavors. One reviewer described it as “a basic course on the subject of Champagne,” which is perfect for those wanting a straightforward, engaging overview.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Avenue de Champagne in Épernay:
The tour kicks off with a walk or drive past some of the most famous Champagne houses. Your guide shares insider stories and historical tidbits, setting the tone for a journey that’s as much about culture as it is about wine.

Aÿ-Champagne vineyard stop:
Here, you’ll get a chance to photograph stunning views and learn about the annual vineyard work — from pruning to harvesting. The landscape is often described as picturesque, and the explanation about vineyard management adds a layer of appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Oger village and family winery:
The visit to Oger is a real treat. The family-run cellar showcases a more personal side of Champagne production. Seeing the winery machinery, hearing about the fermentation process, and tasting three different Champagnes from one small producer give a hands-on sense of the craft.

Tasting experience:
The three glasses of Champagne are more than just a tasting; they’re a chance to recognize different styles, from brut to perhaps a more nuanced, aged variety. The guide explains the differences and encourages questions, making it interactive and informative.

Return to Épernay:
The tour wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the work, land, and people behind Champagne.

Practical Details and Value

At around $92.89 per person, the tour offers a solid value considering the personalized nature, vineyard visits, and tastings included. Private or large-group tours tend to be more expensive and less intimate, so this experience strikes a nice balance for travelers seeking a quality, small-group outing.

The duration of 3 hours is ideal for fitting into a half-day schedule while still allowing ample time to enjoy each stop. Plus, the flexible pickup option adds convenience, especially if you’re staying in Épernay or nearby.

While not including the purchase of Champagne bottles, you are free to buy bottles directly from the wineries visited, often at better prices than in stores. Be aware that tastings are included, but additional bottles are your own expense.

Accessibility is generally good, with most travelers able to participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is family-friendly, but note the minimum age for alcohol consumption is 18.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is tailor-made for those who want to see beyond the typical tourist trail and enjoy a more authentic, personal connection with Champagne producers. It’s perfect if you appreciate scenic drives, local villages, and small wineries rather than large, commercial Champagne houses.

It’s especially suited for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers who want to learn about Champagne’s production process in a relaxed environment. The intimate group size and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for those who prefer quality over quantity.

If you’re after a fun, nostalgic ride in a vintage van combined with authentic tastings and scenic views, this tour ticks all those boxes. Expect a friendly, engaging experience that feels like a day out with friends rather than a forced commercial tour.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for the tour?
Yes, pickup is available from the designated meeting point at the Office de Tourisme d’Épernay en Champagne, making it convenient to join the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 3 hours, allowing enough time for vineyard visits, a cellar tour, tasting, and some scenic driving.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll visit a family-run Champagne cellar, enjoy three Champagne tastings, and explore vineyards and villages along the route.

Can I buy Champagne bottles during the tour?
The tour does not include the purchase of Champagne bottles, but you can buy bottles directly from the wineries you visit.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to just seven participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the minimum age for alcohol consumption is 18, so it’s best suited for adults.

In The Sum Up, this vintage van Champagne tour from Épernay offers a charming, intimate, and authentic way to experience the region. Perfect for those who want a deeper look at smaller producers, enjoy scenic drives, and prefer a relaxed pace with knowledgeable guides. It’s a wonderful choice for wine lovers and curious travelers eager for a memorable slice of Champagne life.