Private day tour in Champagne

Exploring Champagne: A Full-Day Private Tour Backstage

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Champagne beyond the big-name houses, this private tour in Reims offers a wonderfully authentic glimpse into the region’s craft. For around seven hours, you’ll visit small, independent producers, taste at least seven different Champagnes—including brut, rosé, and blanc—and enjoy a gourmet lunch cooked with Champagne in mind. What makes this experience stand out is its intimate approach: personalized attention, behind-the-scenes visits, and the chance to meet genuine artisans of the craft.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to go beyond the glossy tours of major Champagne brands. Instead, you get to meet local winemakers in their private cellars, learn about their unique processes, and taste vintage bottles that most travelers never see. Plus, the scenic drive across the Reims mountain adds a visual treat to the day. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the cost—at nearly $700 per person, it’s an investment, but one that many feel offers exceptional value considering the personalized experience and premium tastings.

This private Champagne tour is perfect for travelers who want a deep, authentic connection to the region, especially those keen on exploring small-scale producers and tasting a variety of Champagnes. If you’re after a more curated, luxury experience that emphasizes quality over quantity, this tour may be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Intimate, Private Experience: Small group or private visits to local, independent producers.
• Authentic Tastings: Sample at least seven different Champagnes, including vintage and rosé.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Meet winemakers and explore private cellars, not just big-brand houses.
• Scenic Drive: Cross the mountain of Reims, enjoying stunning views along the way.
• Gourmet Lunch Included: Dishes cooked in Champagne with a Champagne aperitif, adding a culinary dimension.
• Door-to-Door Convenience: Pickup and drop-off from Reims or Epernay hotels.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with convenient pickup from your hotel in Reims or Epernay, setting the tone for a stress-free day. Once onboard, your driver-guide, Stéphane, will lead you through a carefully curated journey that balances education, tasting, and scenery.

Your first stop is a visit to the vineyards, where Stéphane explains the day’s schedule and offers insights into the various terroirs of Champagne. This introduction sets a relaxed, knowledgeable tone, making the tour approachable for both wine novices and enthusiasts.

The highlight is the visit to a local winemaker’s private cellar. Unlike the commercial tours of larger Champagne houses, here you’ll see a more personal side of Champagne production. The host, a seasoned producer on the CIVC de Champagne, will show you around his cellar and share stories about vintage wines, some dating back decades. You’ll get to taste different Champagnes directly from the cellar—an experience that many reviews find deeply special. Liam, one reviewer, mentioned meeting a 73-year-old producer who shared vintage bottles, giving a rare, authentic glimpse into Champagne’s craftsmanship.

The Tasting Experience

The tasting portion is carefully curated to showcase different styles and flavors. You’ll try no fewer than seven Champagnes, ranging from brut to rosé and blanc. Several reviewers highlighted the quality and diversity of the wines, with one noting the “delightful focus on small, independent producers” that offer a different profile compared to larger brands.

One guest, Maria Carla, appreciated Stéphane’s knowledge, noting he explained “many curiosities” and guided them through technical details and nuanced tasting notes. The personal approach means the tastings aren’t just about drinking—they’re about understanding what makes each Champagne unique.

The Gourmet Lunch

A major perk of this tour is the included gourmet lunch. The meal is served at a traditional restaurant, with dishes cooked specifically in Champagne. Stéphane often invites guests to his own home for lunch, which adds a friendly, welcoming vibe, and the Champagne aperitif during lunch complements the meal perfectly.

Several reviews emphasize how this isn’t just a quick tasting stop but an immersive culinary experience. Lee M. mentioned the high quality of the lunch and the personalized feel of the day, noting that the experience “exposed us to the production of Champagne” in a very approachable way.

Scenic Drive & Views

Driving across the mountain of Reims offers spectacular views and a refreshing break from tasting. Stéphane’s commentary on the landscape and terroir enhances the experience, helping you visualize where the grapes are grown and how the geography influences the wines.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

• Small Producer Visits: Unlike large house tours, you meet genuine artisans, often in their private cellars, providing a sense of connection and authenticity.
• Expert Guidance: Stéphane’s extensive knowledge, passion, and personable style get high praise. One reviewer called him an “excellent local guide” who shared “many curiosities” along the way.
• Quality over Quantity: The focus on fewer, high-quality tastings and a gourmet lunch provides a more memorable and refined experience.
• Flexible & Private: Being a private tour means your group’s pace and interests shape the day, making it more enjoyable and personalized.

The Price and Its Value

At roughly $700 per person, this tour is definitely an investment, but it’s aimed at travelers seeking a premium, curated experience. The inclusion of door-to-door transport, multiple tastings, a gourmet lunch, and the opportunity to meet local producers makes the cost reasonable for what’s offered.

Compared to larger, less personalized Champagne tours, this one offers a level of intimacy and authenticity that is hard to match. Several guests, including Marcel, mentioned the “delightful visits” and how Stéphane’s graciousness made the day unforgettable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for:

• Travelers with a genuine interest in wine and Champagne production.
• Those who appreciate personalized, private experiences rather than large-group tours.
• Foodies who love pairing tastings with gourmet meals.
• Visitors looking for a scenic, relaxed day with cultural and culinary depth.
• People willing to invest more for exclusive access and expert guidance.

If you’re after a fun, superficial tasting, this might be too in-depth. But if you want a meaningful connection to Champagne’s craftsmanship and a memorable day in the region, this tour will deliver.

Final Thoughts

This private day tour in Champagne offers a thoughtfully curated, intimate experience that elevates standard wine tastings into a genuine exploration of craft and terroir. You’ll visit small producers, taste a diverse array of Champagnes, and enjoy a gourmet meal—all with personalized guidance from Stéphane, whose passion for Champagne shines through.

The scenic drive, detailed explanations, and authentic interactions make this more than just a tasting—it’s a deep dive into the heart of Champagne. Although the price tag is on the higher side, the quality, exclusivity, and memorable nature of the experience make it worthwhile for those eager to savor Champagne in a genuine, heartfelt way.

Whether you’re a serious wine lover or just looking to treat yourself to an authentic regional experience, this tour promises a day of discovery, delight, and, of course, excellent Champagne.

FAQ

Is door-to-door pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Reims or Epernay are included, making the day seamless and stress-free.

How many Champagnes will I taste?
You will sample at least seven different Champagnes, ranging from brut to rosé and blanc, directly from private cellars.

Can I expect to meet the actual winemakers?
Absolutely. The tour includes visits to local, independent producers who often share their personal stories and vintage collections.

What’s the lunch like?
A gourmet meal is included, served at a traditional restaurant with a Champagne aperitif, and dishes cooked in Champagne.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available—please specify dietary requirements at booking.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This private Champagne tour combines authenticity, scenery, and culinary delight, making it a memorable way to explore the region’s true spirit. Perfect for those who want a personalized, insightful, and delicious day in one of France’s most sparkling regions.