Private tour: Full Day Veuve Clicquot to Reims or Epernay region

Exploring the Champagne Region: A Deep Dive into the Private Full-Day Tour of Veuve Clicquot and Beyond

If you’re a fan of bubbly and want to experience Champagne in its authentic setting, this private tour promises an immersive, well-rounded day exploring iconic maisons, picturesque villages, and hidden gems. With a maximum group size of eight, it’s tailored for those seeking a personalized experience, knowledgeable guides, and a taste of the region’s most celebrated bubbles.

What sets this tour apart is its combination of historic visits—like Veuve Clicquot’s underground cellars—and charming village explorations, culminating in a delicious three-course lunch paired with Champagne. A few potential considerations include the price, which might seem steep for some, but it reflects the private, intimate nature of the experience.

Ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to learn about Champagne’s terroirs and craftsmanship, this tour offers a comprehensive look at the region’s highlights while balancing fun facts with authentic tasting moments.

Key Points

• Intimate private group with a maximum of 8 guests ensures personalized attention.
• Expert-guided visits provide insights into Champagne’s production and regional history.
• Variety of tastings includes 9 different Champagne wines, including prestigious brands and smaller producers.
• Delicious regional lunch offers a true taste of French cuisine paired with Champagne.
• Balanced itinerary combines cellar tours, village visits, and tastings for an authentic experience.
• Convenient logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off in Reims or Épernay simplifies planning.

An Authentic Day in Champagne: What to Expect

This tour is designed to maximize your time and enjoyment of Champagne’s best features. Starting at 9:00 am from Reims, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned minivan—small enough to keep the experience intimate but comfortable enough for a full day of sightseeing. The tour is tailored to those who want a blend of education, tasting, and scenic exploration without the crowds or chaos of large group tours.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Veuve Clicquot Cellars
The day kicks off with a visit to Veuve Clicquot’s underground cellars, where you’ll uncover the secrets behind their legendary champagne. Reviewers mention that the tours of the cellars last about 1 hour 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to marvel at the aging bottles and learn about the production process. Besides the impressive underground tunnels, guides often share insights into Veuve Clicquot’s history and traditions, making it a fascinating start for wine lovers.

Guests have appreciated the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer praising Jerome for being extremely helpful and friendly. Another highlighted the friendly atmosphere and the passion of the staff, which enhances the tasting experience.

Next Stop: Avenue de Champagne in Épernay
A quick 10-minute drive takes you to this famous street lined with luxury champagne houses. While the stop here is brief—just about 10 minutes—it’s enough for some stunning photos and to appreciate the grandeur of this iconic avenue. It’s a chance to soak in the landscape and see where some of the world’s best-known champagne brands are based.

The Charm of Hautvillers
The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the quaint village of Hautvillers, often called the birthplace of Champagne. This is where Dom Pérignon, the legendary monk credited with early champagne production, is buried. The hour-long visit provides a relaxed stroll through vineyards and charming streets, offering a glimpse into the region’s traditional winemaking lifestyle. Reviewers loved this stop for its picturesque views and the authentic small-village atmosphere.

A Gourmet Three-Course Lunch
No Champagne tour is complete without a proper French meal. Here, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour 30-minute sit-down lunch, featuring local specialties paired with Champagne. Reviewers often mention the quality of the food, with one particularly praising the quiche and wishing for the recipe! Lunch isn’t just a break—it’s a showcase of regional cuisine, perfectly matched with the wines you’ve tasted earlier.

Afternoon at a Smaller Producer
Post-lunch, the tour continues with a visit to a smaller, family-run champagne producer. The focus here is on more intimate tastings, allowing you to appreciate the craftsmanship and unique styles outside the major houses. Reviewers have enjoyed discovering these less commercialized wineries, noting that the tastings are generous and the guides are very informative.

One guest even mentioned they tasted nine different champagnes during the day, including some that are more boutique, making the experience both diverse and personalized.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

This tour strikes a balance between educational value and leisurely enjoyment. The combination of prestigious maison visits and small producer explorations means you get a comprehensive picture of Champagne, from the big names to the hidden treasures.

Many reviewers commend the knowledge level of the guides—such as Xavier, Perrine, and Chloe—who go beyond simple facts, sharing fun quizzes and aromatic exercises that make the day engaging. Their friendly, approachable manner has been repeatedly praised, making the experience both fun and informative.

The tastings are often highlighted as a significant highlight—nine to eleven wines in total, with comments like “every glass was lovely” and “generous sizes” confirming the value. Plus, the lunch is a real treat, with many noting it’s a proper French meal that complements the tasting perfectly.

The Practical Side: Costs, Transport, and Logistics

At $829.99 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it offers a lot for the price. The cost covers private transportation, admission fees, guide services, and all tastings, making it a convenient, all-inclusive experience. For those seeking an intimate, educational day with quality tastings and a delicious meal, many find it to be worth the investment.

Pickup and drop-off are included in Reims, which simplifies logistics—no need to worry about finding your way around. The tour lasts about 9 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

The group size being limited to 8 ensures that you’re not lost in a crowd, and guides can tailor their commentary to the group’s interests. This aspect is frequently appreciated in reviews, with guests noting a personalized and friendly atmosphere.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Champagne’s production and history in a relaxed, small-group setting. It’s also ideal for couples or friends celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a luxurious day trip.

If you’re someone who appreciates quality food paired with wine, the included lunch will be a highlight. Those interested in small, family-run wineries will find the visits especially rewarding.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer self-guided tours, this may not be the best fit. Also, the tour is not suitable for children under 10, and it requires a good level of mobility—some walking and stairs in cellars are involved.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers who love champagne, enjoy learning about the craft, and cherish small-group experiences, this private tour offers impressive value. The combination of prestigious maisons, authentic village visits, and delicious French cuisine creates a well-rounded day that balances history, taste, and scenery.

While the price might seem high, reviews confirm that the guides’ expertise and quality of tastings make it worthwhile. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff, knowledgeable guides, and the personalized nature of the experience.

If you’re seeking an authentic, intimate, and educational way to explore Champagne’s highlights, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to blend luxury with authenticity in one of France’s most iconic wine regions.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
It includes transport in an air-conditioned minivan for up to 8 guests, admission fees, 9 Champagne tastings, a three-course lunch, and a personal guide.

Does the tour pick me up from my hotel?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Reims, making logistics easy for travelers staying there.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from start at 9:00 am to returning to Reims.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the experience isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and flat shoes are recommended since there is walking involved at cellar and village stops.

Can I customize the tasting experience?
The tour is pre-arranged, but guides typically tailor the commentary to the group’s interests—just ask!

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, dietary requirements like vegetarian options are accommodated, as noted in reviews.

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Please advise at the time of booking to ensure your needs are met during lunch.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 8 guests ensures a personalized, less crowded experience.

What if I want to visit more wineries or add extra time?
The tour is fixed in its itinerary, but guides are usually flexible within reason—discuss with your guide on the day.

To sum it up, this private Champagne tour offers a compelling mix of history, tastings, scenery, and local cuisine—all in a cozy, small-group setting. It’s suited for those who want to deepen their appreciation for Champagne, enjoy authentic village visits, and indulge in gourmet dining. While it’s priced accordingly, the quality, personalized service, and authentic experiences make it a worthwhile splurge for lovers of the region’s signature drink.