3 days in Champagne – “Aromas” experience

Planning a trip to the Champagne region and want to truly understand what makes this tour special? This 3-day “Aromas” experience offers a deep dive into both the famous houses and the smaller producers, combining luxury, education, and authentic encounters. Priced at around $2,900 per person, it promises a comprehensive journey through the Champagne landscape, and based on glowing reviews, it definitely delivers.

One of the standout features? The personalized approach—with private transport, tailored visits, and the chance to meet real winemakers. You’ll sample a broad spectrum of champagnes, from iconic brands to rare vintage bottles, all in a carefully curated itinerary.

A potential consideration? The price may seem high for some travelers, but the quality of experiences, the guide’s expertise, and the exclusive access justify the expense for many. This tour is best suited for those with a genuine interest in Champagne, wine connoisseurs, or anyone celebrating a special occasion and eager for an immersive, luxurious adventure.

Key Points

• Extensive Champagne Tastings: 21 tastings across big houses and small producers, including rare vintages.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, personable guides (like Stephane) who tailor the experience and share insider insights.
• Authentic Encounters: Meet real winemakers, learn their craft, and taste wines in private cellars.
• Diverse Highlights: Visits to historic sites, UNESCO landscapes, and iconic Champagne avenues.
• Luxury and Convenience: Private transportation, included lunches, and a curated, well-paced itinerary.
• Value for Enthusiasts: The cost reflects access to exclusive tastings, expert guidance, and a full immersion in Champagne’s world.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Big Names

The tour kicks off with visits to Champagnes Pommery, Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, and Champagne Mercier. These are some of the most recognizable names in the industry, and their cellars are as impressive as their reputation.

Pommery, with its historic cellars, offers an intimate tasting in the old vinification centre. Here, you’ll get to see the famous giant bottles aging, a sight that gives a real sense of the grandeur of Champagne. Reviewers highlight the “fabulous” cellar and the chance to see bottles that are centuries old, adding a layer of historical charm to the day.

Next, Veuve Clicquot provides a more branded experience—visiting the shop filled with branded products and enjoying a tasting room session. Reviewers note the tasting here as “beautifully curated,” perfect for those seeking a classic Champagne experience.

Moët & Chandon rounds out the day, with a visit to their vast cellars and tastings of their iconic Champagne, including Dom Pérignon. The tour here is two hours, allowing ample time to appreciate the craftsmanship and enjoy a tasting of the labels.

Finally, Champagne Mercier offers a fun twist—an underground cellar tour aboard a small train. The highlight? Viewing the world’s largest Champagne oak barrel, capable of holding 200,000 bottles. Reviewers love this playful element, describing it as a “must-see” for its uniqueness.

Day 2: Small Producers and Hidden Gems

The second day shifts focus to small, family-owned producers. These visits are truly the soul of the tour, giving a taste of Champagne’s diverse terroir.

First stop is in Sermiers, a Grand Cru village, where a private visit with a winemaker reveals the secrets of their craft. You’ll see the press centre, vinification facilities, and cellars, with the chance to comment on four different champagnes. Reviewers are impressed by the personalized attention, with one noting the “private visit” as a highlight.

Next, in Rilly-la-Montagne, a “1er cru” village, the focus is on learning how a dedicated winemaker approaches production—tasting different champagnes from another village with distinct flavors, which broadens your palate and understanding.

A scenic drive through Verzy showcases the UNESCO-listed landscapes, giving you a moment to appreciate the vineyards’ beauty and significance.

The day wraps at Reims Cathedral, a site steeped in history where French kings were crowned. Reviewers mention the “beautiful architecture” and the significance of the location for French royalty, adding cultural context to your wine journey.

Day 3: Rare Finds and Deeper Tastes

The final day is designed for serious Champagne enthusiasts. It features tastings of rare, vintage, and experimental champagnes.

In Beaumont-sur-Vesle, you meet a winemaker producing a Chardonnay ranked among the top 10 in the world. You’ll learn about “Clos”—a small, exclusive vineyard—and taste wines directly from oak barrels, experiencing the difference that terroir and aging make. Reviewers describe the “freshness” of the still wines and prized champagnes as unforgettable.

In Verzenay, an old-school winemaker shares bottles that have aged up to 25 years. This is a rare chance to compare young and mature champagnes, with reviewers noting the “aroma differences” and the excitement of tasting history in a glass.

The tour winds down in the charming Hautvillers village, famous for being the home of Dom Pérignon, and then along the Avenue de Champagne in Épernay—both iconic sights that encapsulate Champagne’s glamour and tradition.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The combination of big brand visits and small producer encounters offers a rundown that appeals to both casual wine drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs. The private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility, making the long days manageable and enjoyable.

Sampling 21 champagnes, including rare vintage bottles and experimental styles like “extra-dry” and “zero” sugars, provides a broad tasting palate. Reviewers rave about the quality and variety of wines, often mentioning the personalized comments and expert guidance of Stephane, the guide.

The inclusion of lunches gives you a chance to relax and reflect on each day’s discoveries, adding value to the experience. The tours are designed for most travelers, with accessibility considerations noted, and are kept private to your group, maintaining a personalized vibe.

The Value Proposition

While at nearly $3,000 per person this isn’t a budget tour, the depth of access, private tastings, and the chance to meet real winemakers make it a strong value for those passionate about Champagne. The reviews underscore the expert guidance, with guests mentioning how guides like Stephane have created memorable, “spoiled in every way” experiences.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for Champagne enthusiasts, wine lovers, and those celebrating special milestones. If you enjoy learning about wine, meeting producers, and tasting a wide range of champagnes—especially rare and vintage bottles—this trip will satisfy your curiosity and palate alike.

It’s also an excellent choice for travelers seeking a private, curated experience rather than a crowded group tour. If you value comfort, exclusivity, and expert insights, you’ll find this tour well worth the investment.

However, if your main goal is a quick taste or a low-cost outing, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s full immersion approach and high-quality access are best appreciated by those with a genuine interest in Champagne’s nuances.

FAQs

How many tastings are included?
There are a total of 21 Champagne tastings spread across big houses, small producers, and special vintage tastings.

Are transportation and lunch included?
Yes, the tour provides private transport and three included lunches. Drinks during lunch are extra.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is private, making it adaptable. Accessibility details are not specified, but the itinerary involves some walking and visits in cellars.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this experience is booked 251 days in advance, so early booking is recommended to secure your spot.

What is the cost and does it offer good value?
At approximately $2,900 per person, the tour offers high value through exclusive visits, tastings, and expert guidance, particularly if you’re passionate about Champagne.

Can I expect to meet winemakers?
Yes, especially on Day 2, when you’ll meet real winemakers in small, family-run estates, gaining behind-the-scenes insights.

The Sum Up

For those eager to uncover the full breadth of Champagne—from legendary brands to hidden gems—this “Aromas” 3-day tour offers a thoughtfully curated, immersive experience. The blend of big house visits, private tastings, and encounters with authentic winemakers provides a thorough understanding of what makes Champagne so special.

The inclusion of rare vintages and innovative styles like zero-sugar champagne makes this ideal for serious fans and curious learners alike. The personalized approach and expert guidance elevate the experience beyond a typical wine tour, creating memories worth cherishing.

While it requires a significant investment, the value of exclusive access, authentic stories, and breathtaking scenery makes this a compelling choice for those who want a deeply enriching Champagne adventure.

If you appreciate attention to detail, love learning from true insiders, and want to celebrate with a glass of exceptional bubbly, this tour is likely to be one of your best travel experiences.