Food and Champagne Experience from Reims (Private full day tour)

Travelers seeking an authentic taste of France’s most famous sparkling wine will find this Food and Champagne Experience from Reims a compelling choice. This private full-day tour offers a deep dive into the Champagne world, combining visits to renowned vineyards, engaging workshops, and gourmet culinary pairings. With a highly-rated guide and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, it promises an immersive experience for wine lovers and curious explorers alike.

One of the standout features we love is the tour’s focus on independent Champagne producers—a chance to see how traditional methods blend with unique family heritage. The inclusion of playful aroma workshops and multiple tastings adds a fun, educational element that elevates the experience beyond standard cellar visits. However, the tour’s length—around 7 to 8 hours—means it’s a full day, so travelers should be prepared for a bit of a schedule.

This experience is perfect for those who want more than just a quick tasting. It’s suited for anyone interested in gastronomy, regional heritage, and authentic Champagne craftsmanship. If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and learning, and don’t mind a day dedicated to indulgence, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Authentic Focus: Visits to 3 family-owned independent Champagne houses offer genuine insights into traditional production methods.
• Educational & Fun: Aroma workshops and tastings of 15+ wines, including Grand Cru and Premier Cru, help deepen your appreciation.
• Gourmet Pairings: Local dishes and regional products are paired with tastings, revealing the culinary secrets of Champagne.
• Exclusive Itinerary: Stops in villages like Aÿ-Champagne and Oger, along with a walk along the famous Avenue de Champagne, make the experience rich and varied.
• Expert Guidance: The tour is led by knowledgeable guides, often praised for their engaging explanations and friendly manner.
• Value for Price: At around $860 per person, you get a comprehensive, private experience that covers sightseeing, tastings, and a gourmet lunch.

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Involves

This private tour begins early in Reims, with pickup included, setting the tone for an intimate and personalized day. You’re guided through some of the most scenic parts of the Champagne region, including the UNESCO-listed hillsides of Marne Valley and the picturesque villages dotted with vineyards.

The itinerary involves visiting several villages renowned for their wine heritage, like Mareuil-sur-Ay and Ay-Champagne. These areas are not just scenic but are central to understanding the terroirs that give Champagne its distinct character. The stop at Mareuil-sur-Ay, for instance, isn’t just about sightseeing; it includes a playful aroma workshop to explore the different scents of Champagne and its three main grape varieties—Pinot Noir, Meunier, and Chardonnay. This hands-on activity helps you understand the complex nose of sparkling wines, which many travelers find surprisingly fun and enlightening.

Villages and Vineyards

Your journey takes you to Aÿ-Champagne, a Grand Cru village known for its Pinot Noir. Here, you’ll step into vineyards, learn about the work involved in vine cultivation, and gain a clearer picture of what makes the region’s terroir exceptional. The guide will explain how the vineyards’ location, soil, and climate contribute to each wine’s profile.

Later, you’ll visit a third-generation family Champagne producer in Oger, another Grand Cru village famed for its Chardonnay. During this visit, you’ll see the process of Champagne making firsthand and taste some of the house specialties—including the Grand Cru and Premier Cru bottles, directly from the cellars. One reviewer noted, “Great company and tour by Isabelle, lots of learning and great moments,” highlighting the quality of the guiding and personalized attention.

Tastings and Gastronomy

Tasting is a core part of this tour, with a total of 15 different wines and spirits — including Champagne, Ratafia, and Marc de Champagne. These are paired with regional dishes and products, giving you a true sense of local gastronomy. The inclusion of alcohols like Ratafias and Fine de la Marne adds variety and insight into the region’s distilling traditions.

The gourmet stop at a local winery for lunch and tasting is a highlight. You’ll sample Champagnes from the same vineyard and taste a selection of Ratafias, including some unique varieties produced from lesser-known grapes. One reviewer called this a “delicious” part of the experience, noting the “great company and tour.”

The Avenue de Champagne and Final Impressions

No visit to Epernay would be complete without a stroll along Avenue de Champagne, often called the most expensive street in the world due to its many historic Champagne houses. Your guide will offer a commented passage explaining the significance of the stunning properties lining the street, as well as the vast number of bottles stored in the cellars—the equivalent of 200 million bottles.

The overall experience is tailored for those who want a comprehensive, engaging look at Champagne beyond just tasting. The tour’s private status ensures a more relaxed, customizable day, with only your group involved. The length (around 7-8 hours) allows plenty of time for exploration without rushing and enables deep dives into each stop.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour begins at 9:30 am, making it ideal for travelers who want a full day. The pickup service is included, and the tour ends back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward. With most travelers booking about a month in advance, it’s wise to reserve early, especially during peak seasons.

At $860.86 per person, this experience offers good value considering the exclusivity, knowledgeable guides, and diversity of activities. It’s a pricey day, but comparable to other private wine tours in France, and the inclusion of gourmet meals, multiple tastings, and visits to family producers makes it well worth the investment.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine aficionados who crave an authentic behind-the-scenes look at Champagne production, as well as those interested in regional gastronomy and culture. If you’re someone who appreciates handcrafted products and enjoys learning with a friendly guide, this tour will hit the right spot.

It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a private, personalized experience over larger group tours, giving you flexibility and intimate access to family-run vineyards. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to deepen your understanding of Champagne, this tour provides a perfect blend of education, indulgence, and discovery.

However, keep in mind the full-day commitment. If you’re pressed for time or prefer a shorter overview, other options focusing on fewer vineyards or less extensive tastings might suit better.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Since the tour involves tastings and visits to wineries, it’s generally geared towards adults. Minors might not be able to participate in tastings, but the scenic drives and village visits could still appeal to families, depending on the guide.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is provided with pickup offered at the start, ensuring a hassle-free experience between Reims and the various stops.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a full-day adventure packed with visits, tastings, and gourmet meals.

Are the tastings limited to Champagne?
No, besides Champagne, you’ll taste other regional alcohols like Ratafia, Fine de la Marne, and Marc de Champagne, providing a well-rounded tasting experience.

What is included in the gourmet lunch?
The lunch is at a local winery and features regional dishes paired with local Champagne and spirits, enhancing your understanding of the region’s culinary traditions.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Changes less than 24 hours prior are not accepted.

Is this experience good value for the price?
Considering the private nature, multiple vineyard visits, tastings, gourmet lunch, and expert guidance, the experience offers substantial value—especially for those wanting an immersive, curated Champagne journey.

To sum it up, this private Food and Champagne Experience from Reims is a thoughtfully crafted day for wine lovers eager to explore the region’s vineyards, learn about its traditions, and indulge in delicious regional cuisine. It balances education with enjoyment, making it ideal for those who wish to savor every moment of their Champagne journey and gain insights that go beyond the typical tour. For travelers with a passion for authentic, handcrafted experiences—and the comfort of a private guide—this day offers a rewarding taste of France’s sparkling jewel.