Champagne Tasting Class and Lunch near Epernay

If you’re dreaming of an authentic Champagne experience that combines education, tasting, and a hearty French meal, this tour promises all that and more. Set in the picturesque vineyards of Mareuil-sur-Ay, this small-group tour offers a chance to learn about the Champagne-making process, sample exquisite wines from small producers, and enjoy a delicious regional lunch—all in just about three hours.

What sets this experience apart? For starters, it’s led by knowledgeable guides who make the process fun and accessible, and the intimate group size (max 12 people) ensures a personalized experience. On the flip side, the tour doesn’t include transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own route there. Perfect for those seeking a genuine, relaxed encounter with Champagne, this tour is ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and travelers eager to dive beyond the touristy spots and into local traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic Small-Producer Focus: Sampling champagnes from family-run wineries offers a more genuine taste of regional craftsmanship.
• Educational & Interactive: Includes a guided class with blind tastings and olfactory workshops that make learning about Champagne fun.
• Hearty French Lunch: Enjoy a 3-course meal with regional specialties, paired with Champagne, Coteaux Champenois, and Ratafia.
• Small Group Setting: Max 12 guests ensures personalized attention, interaction, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Convenient Location: Near Epernay, easily accessible by train from Paris—just 15 minutes from Epernay itself.
• Value for Money: At approximately $102, the experience combines multiple tastings, a guided class, and a meal—making it a well-rounded, affordable option.

Introduction: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This Champagne tour offers a well-rounded look at France’s iconic sparkling wine in a way that feels both educational and personal. From the moment you arrive at Le Clos Corbier, a traditional family-run Champagne house in the middle of lush vineyards, you get the sense you’re stepping into a truly authentic experience. The guides, such as the friendly and engaging Batiste or Marie, make complex topics accessible and fun, whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur.

One of the biggest highlights is the guided Champagne class, which includes a blind tasting and aroma identification that many reviewers found both fun and surprisingly educational. Several mention how this part of the experience enhances their understanding of Champagne’s subtle flavors and aromas—something you won’t get from just visiting a big commercial cellar.

However, this isn’t a tour that’s heavy on transportation or cookie-cutter experiences. It’s designed for those who genuinely want to connect with Champagne’s craftsmanship and taste its diversity in a relaxed setting. The delicious regional French lunch paired with the wines perfectly complements the tasting, giving you a full sensory experience in just three hours.

That said, travelers should note that transportation isn’t included, so planning your own way there—via train or car—is necessary. But if you’re looking for an intimate, educational, and delicious day with a local touch, this tour hits the mark.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Meeting Point & Arrival

You’ll meet your guide at 5 Bd Nicolas François Billecart in Aÿ-Champagne at 10:30am. The location is right in the heart of the Champagne region, close to the vineyards, and accessible by public transit—just a 15-minute train ride from Epernay. The small group size (up to 12) makes for a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Visiting the Cellars

The tour kicks off with a visit to the cellars dug in the 1850s, adding a historical charm that many reviews appreciate. You’ll see traditional wine presses and learn about the champagne-making process, from pressing grapes to fermentation and aging. Guides like Charlotte or Xavier bring this history alive, explaining the nuances that separate high-quality Champagne from mass-produced varieties.

Champagne Tasting Class & Quiz

Next, you’ll sit down for a guided Champagne tasting, which includes a fun quiz to test your nose and palate. One reviewer, Beth, called it a “highlight,” noting how the guide’s explanations and interactive tasting made learning enjoyable. Expect at least three small-producer champagnes during this session, along with local snacks that enhance the tasting experience.

Olfactory Workshop & Blind Tasting

The olfactory workshop is a key feature—training your nose to identify aromas like brioche, citrus, or nuts. Many reviewers appreciated this part, describing it as “enlightening” and “fun,” especially when trying to match smells to the right champagne. The blind tasting adds a playful, competitive element, which most found engaging and educational.

Authentic French Lunch

After the tasting, it’s time for a three-course lunch of regional French cuisine. Expect dishes like pâté en croute, Langres cheese, or pink biscuit cake, each paired with different Champagne or regional wine like Coteaux Champenois or Ratafia. The lunch is described as homemade and thoughtfully prepared, with reviewers raving about the flavors—one even said it was their favorite meal during a four-night trip.

Regional Drink Tasting

Along With Champagne, you’ll sample Coteaux Champenois, a red regional wine, and Ratafia, a regional liquor. These tastings give a broader understanding of local wine traditions beyond bubbly, and many guests appreciated the chance to taste something unique to the region.

End of Tour

Your experience wraps up around 1:30pm back at the meeting point. The tour is designed to leave you with new knowledge, a few bottles of family-run Champagne, and plenty of memories.

Authenticity & Value

The small group size and focus on small producers really set this experience apart. You’ll notice that several reviews praise the personalized attention and the opportunity to interact with passionate, knowledgeable guides. The fact that the wineries are family-run means you’re supporting local traditions—a highlight for many travelers seeking authentic experiences.

The pricing of around $102 per person actually reflects excellent value considering the multiple tasting sessions, a guided educational class, and a full French lunch. Many tours in the region offer only cellar visits or tastings, but this package combines all that with a cultural and culinary dimension, making it worth every euro.

Why the reviews love this experience

Guests frequently mention how much they learned, the quality of the wines, and the warmth of the hosts. Irene_L noted the “perfect location, perfect host, and great company,” emphasizing how the intimate setting fosters genuine connections. Robert_E called the tour “an excellent way to learn about Champagne,” appreciating the detailed explanations and the chance to taste diverse wines from small houses.

The guides make a difference

From what guests say, guides like Batiste, Xavier, and Marie are not just knowledgeable—they’re lively, friendly, and genuinely passionate about Champagne. Their engaging style keeps the group involved, whether through games, quizzes, or casual conversations. This personal touch enhances the overall value of the tour, making it more than just a tasting.

Practical Details & Considerations

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity. The small-group limit of 12 ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in the crowd, and it allows for more tailored interactions.

Cost & Inclusion

At $102.17, the price includes entrance fees, tastings, a guided class, and lunch—a comprehensive package for those interested in a relaxed, educational experience. Note that private transportation is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly via train or car.

Accessibility & Booking

The tour is booked on average 27 days in advance, and confirmation is immediate. It’s near public transportation, which simplifies planning for travelers coming from Paris or nearby cities. The activity is also flexible in accommodating dietary restrictions like allergies or specific diets, making it suitable for guests with special needs.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before, giving some peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Experiences from Guest Reviews

Several guests highlight the warm hospitality and personalized attention from guides like Charlotte, Xavier, and Marie. One reviewer even commented about the fun and relaxed atmosphere, with games and tastings that made the experience memorable.

Beth_S called it “definitely a highlight,” especially for celebrating a special occasion like her mother’s 80th birthday. Others appreciated how the tour’s interactive elements made the learning process enjoyable and memorable. Many found the lunch particularly impressive, describing it as delicious, homemade, and well-paired with the wines.

The supportive and friendly guides clearly make a difference, with guests praising their enthusiasm and knowledge, highlighting how they make the complex world of Champagne accessible and fun.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Champagne tasting and lunch experience is best suited for travelers who want more than just a typical cellar visit. If you appreciate small, family-run wineries, want interactive learning about the Champagne-making process, and enjoy authentic regional cuisine, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a fantastic choice for foodies, wine enthusiasts, and cultural explorers looking for a relaxed, enriching experience.

While it’s ideal for those comfortable arranging their own transport to Mareuil-sur-Ay, the small group size and personal touches make it a worthwhile splurge. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to deepen your appreciation for Champagne, this tour offers a genuine taste of French terroir, tradition, and hospitality.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to and from the meeting point in Mareuil-sur-Ay, which is accessible by public transit from Epernay and just a short train ride from Paris.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 people, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.

Does the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, the lunch can be adapted to allergies or specific diets. Guests should mention their needs when booking.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a guided visit to a family-run Champagne cellar, six tastings (including Champagne, regional wine, and liquor), an educational class, and a homemade three-course French lunch.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, from 10:30am to around 1:30pm.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 27 days ahead, as it tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

What makes this tour different from others in Champagne?
The focus on small producers, personalized guides, engaging tasting classes, and a regional lunch make it a more intimate and culturally rich experience than larger, more commercial tours.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are adept at making Champagne accessible for all levels, and the interactive class is perfect for learning without feeling overwhelmed.

What is the best way to get there?
The meeting point is near public transit, just 15 minutes from Epernay by train. Guests traveling from Paris can reach Epernay in about 1 hour 17 minutes by train.

In essence, this tour offers a balanced glimpse into Champagne’s traditions, flavors, and lifestyle—perfect for those who want depth, authenticity, and good company in a relaxing setting.