Exclusive Champagne Cellars & Dom Perignon Vineyards tour

If you’re dreaming of swanky vineyards, sparkling wine tastings, and a taste of French elegance, then this Exclusive Champagne Cellars & Dom Perignon Vineyards tour from Reims might be just what you’re looking for. Rated a perfect 5.0 based on 26 reviews, this tour offers a comprehensive, relaxed day exploring some of the region’s most iconic sights and secrets. It combines history, culture, and, of course, plenty of champagne to keep your glass full—and your curiosity satisfied.

What really sets this experience apart is the combination of well-curated stops, expert guidance, and high-quality tastings. Plus, with the small group size (a maximum of 8 travelers), you get a personalized touch that larger tours can’t quite match. On the flip side, the price tag at around $242.85 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in visits to two wineries, a historic cathedral, and a charming village, the value becomes clearer.

This tour is best suited for lovers of wine, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates a well-organized, intimate day trip that offers both education and indulgence. If you’re keen to explore the world of Champagne beyond the tourist traps, this could be your ideal match.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size ensures you receive plenty of attention from your guide or sommelier.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: From Reims Cathedral to Épernay and Dom Perignon’s birthplace, the tour covers major highlights.
• Authentic Tasting Opportunities: Visits to two local wineries include tastings and insights into Champagne production.
• Rich Cultural Context: Stops include historic sites like the Reims Cathedral and the village of Hautvillers.
• Flexible and Relaxed Pace: About 8 hours of sightseeing, tasting, and strolling, with time for lunch in Épernay.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides who can speak multiple languages add depth to your experience.

A Full Breakdown of the Itinerary

Reims Cathedral: The Historic Heart of Champagne

Your day kicks off at the Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Reims, where you’ll spend about 30 minutes exploring this magnificent Gothic structure. Known for hosting royal coronations, the cathedral’s stunning stained glass and intricate facade make it a must-see for history and architecture lovers. Guests mention it’s a fitting start, setting a tone of grandeur and tradition for the day. One reviewer, Emily, noted that this was the first stop after being picked up by Luiz, the guide, emphasizing how smoothly the day begins.

The Champagne Route: Vineyards and Tastings

Next, you’ll hop into your air-conditioned vehicle and hit the famous Champagne Route, which winds through the region’s best grape-growing areas. This segment lasts roughly four hours and includes visits to two different wineries, where you’ll learn about the production process and taste a selection of champagnes. Reviewers consistently praise Luiz’s knowledge—he’s described as friendly, flexible, and very well-informed. The visits are not just about tasting but also about understanding why the Champagne region produces such distinctive sparkling wines, from vineyard practices to cellar techniques.

A notable comment from Emily also mentioned that even in less-than-ideal weather (cold January day), Luiz kept the energy high and made it a worthwhile trip, an important point for off-season travelers.

Épernay: The Champagne Capital and Lunch Spot

Eager to enjoy a bit of local life, your next stop is Épernay, often called the Champagne capital. You’ll have about 90 minutes of free time here for lunch, with guides suggesting excellent restaurants. The town’s famous Avenue de Champagne is a highlight for a leisurely stroll, lined with grand champagne houses and historic cellars. Reviewers like Adam W. called this day “sensational,” noting the perfect combination of sightseeing, tastings, and good food.

Hautvillers: The Birthplace of Champagne

Your journey continues to Hautvillers, a picturesque village renowned as Dom Perignon’s home. Spending about an hour here, you’ll soak in its charming atmosphere—cobbled streets, cozy cafés, and a sense of stepping back in time. Visitors love the chance to walk in Dom Perignon’s footsteps, gaining insight into how this monk’s innovations helped shape the sparkling wine industry.

Avenue de Champagne: The Grand Finale

Finally, a 30-minute walk along the Avenue de Champagne offers a peek into the world of luxury champagne houses. Even if just for the views, this street exudes elegance and history. It’s also an opportunity to appreciate the architectural grandeur and the prestige associated with some of the world’s most famous champagne brands.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers visits and tastings at two champagne wineries, the cathedral, the village of Hautvillers, and the avenue of Champagne. All transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle is taken care of, with a professional guide or sommelier providing insights along the way.

However, lunch isn’t included, giving you the freedom to pick a spot that suits your taste and budget in Épernay—something many travelers find a real plus, allowing for personalized dining experiences. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are also not part of the package, so travelers need to organize their own transfers to the meeting point in Épernay.

The Experience: What Travellers Say

The recurring theme in reviews is how knowledgeable and friendly Luiz (or the guide/sommelier) is—adding both warmth and depth to the day. One visitor said Luiz’s relaxed style made the experience very engaging, conveying complex wine-making concepts in an accessible way.

Guests also rave about the stunning countryside views, especially those who visited early in the year and appreciated the peaceful, less crowded atmosphere. The tastings are described as generous, with some reviewers mentioning that they enjoyed multiple champagnes, often from small, family-run wineries.

Value for money is often highlighted, especially considering the personalized attention, the quality of the tastings, and the historic and scenic stops included. The tour’s small group setting allows for more interaction, tailored experiences, and a relaxed pace that larger tours sometimes lack.

Practical Considerations

At roughly 8 hours, this is a full-day adventure, so comfortable shoes, a camera, and an appetite for both knowledge and bubbly are essential. The tour starts at 9:15 am, and travelers should note that most experiences are in English, although guides can speak multiple languages, including French, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian.

Booking about 42 days in advance is recommended, which indicates its popularity. The maximum of 8 travelers ensures an intimate experience, but it also means spots can fill quickly—so planning ahead is wise.

Since the tour is weather-dependent—champagne cellars and vineyard views are best enjoyed in good weather—it’s worth considering this when booking, especially outside the peak seasons.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re a champagne lover eager to go beyond the supermarket bottles and understand the craftsmanship behind the bubbles, this tour offers a perfect mix of education and indulgence. It’s also fantastic for those who appreciate history, architecture, and scenic drives through the French countryside.

Travelers who prefer a more personal, relaxed atmosphere will find the small group setting ideal. It’s suited for adults over 18, given the tasting component, and those who enjoy engaging guides and authentic experiences.

Final Thoughts

This Champagne tour from Reims is a well-rounded experience that balances history, culture, and tasting indulgence while maintaining a friendly, approachable vibe. The small group size and expert guides elevate it from a typical sightseeing day to a memorable, educational outing.

While the price might be a consideration, the quality of visits, tastings, and local insights make it a great value—especially if you’re passionate about champagne or eager to learn about the region’s rich traditions. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Champagne, with plenty of opportunities to savor some of the world’s finest sparkling wines.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Visits and tastings at two wineries, stops at Reims Cathedral, the Hautvillers village, and Avenue de Champagne, plus transportation in a comfortable vehicle with a guide or sommelier.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included, so you’re free to choose where to dine in Épernay. Guides often suggest good local restaurants.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on champagne tastings, non-drinkers can still enjoy the sightseeing, scenery, and cultural stops. Just let the guides know in advance.

What languages does the guide speak?
The tour is conducted in English, but guides can also speak French, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking along the avenue and village streets. Dress according to the weather.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation from and back to the meeting point in Épernay.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Full refunds are processed if cancellation occurs in time.

What is the best time of year to go?
While the tour runs year-round, spring and early fall offer particularly beautiful scenery and milder weather, enhancing vineyard views and outdoor stops.

In the end, this tour offers a beautifully curated glimpse into Champagne’s sparkling world, perfect for curious wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Its combination of insider knowledge, scenic drives, and top-quality tastings makes it a memorable, worthwhile experience—one that leaves you with both a full glass and a fuller understanding of France’s most celebrated bubbly.