Sabrage and Viticulture and Triple Tasting in the Mountains of Reims

Introduction

This tour — titled Sabrage and Viticulture and Triple Tasting in the Mountains of Reims — promises an engaging blend of champagne history, vineyard scenery, and hands-on champagne saber-ing. It’s a compact experience, lasting about 75 minutes, that aims to combine education with fun, all set against the stunning backdrop of Reims’ famed champagne region. What makes this experience stand out is the unique sabrage activity, where you’ll learn how to open a champagne bottle with a sword, a skill that definitely isn’t on everyone’s bucket list.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances a bit of theatrical flair with genuine wine knowledge. The setting itself, with sweeping views of ten hectares of Chardonnay vines and the Reims Cathedral in the distance, elevates the whole experience. However, since it’s somewhat short and intimate (max 8 guests), it’s best suited for those who enjoy quick, interactive activities rather than a full day of vineyard touring.

A possible drawback? If you’re not comfortable with or interested in the dramatics of sabering, this might feel a bit gimmicky. Also, the tour doesn’t include snacks, so if you’re planning to make a day of it, you’ll want to bring or buy some food separately. This experience leans heavily toward those looking for a fun, memorable way to learn about champagne while enjoying spectacular scenery — ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking something different in Reims.

Key Points

• Interactive and fun: The highlight is learning to sabre champagne, which adds a memorable and engaging element.
• Stunning views: The tour offers impressive vistas of Chardonnay vineyards and Reims’ cathedral, ideal for photos.
• Educational component: You’ll gain insight into champagne terroir, historical actors, and winemaking assets.
• Limited duration: At about 1 hour 15 minutes, it’s a quick experience, perfect for fitting into a larger trip.
• Small group size: With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour feels intimate and personalized.
• Value for money: At approximately $59 per person, you get three glasses of champagne and a unique activity, making it a worthwhile addition to your Reims itinerary.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Initial Impressions

The tour begins at the Champagne Lallement Massonnot Winery in Coulommes-la-Montagne, a quaint village about a short drive from central Reims. The meeting is straightforward, with clear directions, and the group size is kept small, which enhances the personal touch. From the start, the hosts are friendly and eager to share their passion for champagne, setting a welcoming tone.

The First Part: Champagne and Vineyard Introduction

The experience kicks off with an introduction to champagne and its unique terroir, delivered amidst a lush plot of Chardonnay 1er Cru vines. We loved the way the guide explained how different economic actors, the land, and the history of the region contribute to the champagne’s character. The views are truly spectacular — imagine looking out over rolling vineyards that stretch towards the imposing Cathedral of Reims in the distance.

This part is more than just a quick spiel; it’s educational, offering insights into how champagne producers maintain their assets and compete in a global market. If you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the depth of information, even in this short segment.

The Highlight: Sabering Like Napoleon’s Hussars

Next comes the sabrage demonstration — a fun and surprisingly accessible activity. You’ll first practice on a control bottle, then proceed to a full champagne bottle. The hosts emphasize safety, providing protective glasses and clear instructions, which makes the process less intimidating. We heard from a reviewer that the success rate is about 90%, so don’t worry if you’re a bit nervous; the hosts are very reassuring.

The act of slicing through a champagne bottle with a sword is theatrical and satisfying. It’s a skill that, once learned, makes for a great party trick or a memorable way to open a special bottle. One reviewer even mentioned how the experience was “much more than just a tasting” — it felt like a mini performance.

Tasting the Results

After all the saber-ing, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. You’ll get to taste the cuvée sabre, as well as two other champagnes to compare and appreciate the nuances. The tasting is generous, with three glasses included. The guide explains what to look for in each glass, from the bubbles to the aroma, adding to the educational element.

Reviewers have noted the quality of the champagnes, describing them as delightful and well-selected. One reviewer called it a “superb end-to-end experience,” emphasizing how the entire activity felt both fun and informative.

Scenery and Atmosphere

Throughout the tour, the views are truly striking. The vineyard landscape, combined with the historic Gothic cathedral in the distance, creates a picture-perfect backdrop. This setting lends a sense of authenticity and tranquility that enhances the overall experience. The small group size means you can really soak in the scenery and ask questions without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Value

At $58.84 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusion of three high-quality champagnes and the hands-on sabering activity. The timing at 3 pm makes it suitable for an afternoon activity — especially if you’re exploring Reims or nearby Champagne houses.

Since no snacks are included, consider bringing some nibbles if you plan to extend your day or head to nearby restaurants afterward. The tour operates in a friendly, reassuring atmosphere, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a light, memorable experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to try something interactive and memorable. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of education, fun, and stunning scenery. If you’re curious about champagne’s history and production but don’t want a full-day tour, this is a fantastic choice.

It also appeals to those looking for a unique souvenir or party trick — learning to sabre champagne is definitely a story to tell. However, if you prefer a more in-depth vineyard visit or a comprehensive tasting tour, you might want to combine this with other experiences.

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a delightful mix of fun, education, and scenic beauty. The sabrage activity alone makes it stand out from typical champagne tastings, providing a memorable skill you can show off back home. The stunning vineyard views and the chance to learn about champagne terroir add depth, making it more than just a gimmick.

The small group size fosters a personal, relaxed vibe, and the entire experience is well-paced. It offers excellent value for the price, especially considering the quality of the champagnes tasted and the expert guidance. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to add a dash of adventure to your trip, this experience hits the mark.

For travelers who love a bit of theatrics, scenic surroundings, and a taste of champagne craftsmanship, this tour will leave you with plenty of memories — and a new skill to impress friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The hosts provide clear safety instructions and reassurance, making it accessible even if you’ve never sabred champagne before.

How long does the experience last?
It runs for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a quick but memorable activity.

What’s included in the price?
You get three glasses of champagne to taste and the chance to learn sabrage. Protective glasses are provided for safety.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours before the start time.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at Champagne Lallement Massonnot Winery, 35 Rue Haute, Coulommes-la-Montagne.

Is food included?
No, snacks are not included, so plan to eat before or after the tour if needed.

How many people can join?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for an outdoor vineyard setting and the activity.

Is there a specific time I should book?
The tour starts at 3:00 pm, so plan accordingly, especially if you want to combine it with other activities.

This experience offers a lively, scenic, and educational way to dive into champagne culture in Reims. Whether you’re a champagne novice or a seasoned connoisseur, the chance to saber your own bottle and taste fine bubbly makes for a fun and authentic addition to your trip.