Reims: Veuve Clicquot and Family-Run Winery Day Tour & Lunch

Reims: Veuve Clicquot and Family-Run Winery Day Tour & Lunch

Exploring Reims and Epernay through this guided day tour offers a taste of France’s most celebrated bubbly alongside authentic vineyard visits. It’s a well-rounded experience designed for both newcomers and those already partial to Champagne, blending big-name houses with cozy family wineries. We particularly appreciate how the tour balances educational moments with relaxed tasting sessions and scenic stops.

One standout aspect is the insider access to both prestigious Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot and smaller, family-run wineries—giving you a broader perspective on Champagne production. However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s length and schedule require a fair bit of moving around, which might be tiring if you prefer a more leisurely pace. This experience suits curious travelers eager to learn about Champagne’s craftsmanship while sampling some of the best wines in the region.

Key Points

• Expert-guided visits at famous Champagne houses and boutique wineries provide both breadth and depth.
• Tastings are plentiful, with a total of 9 glasses throughout the day, including four at Veuve Clicquot.
• The scenic stops at Hautvillers and the Avenue de Champagne showcase stunning vineyard views and historical charm.
• The culinary highlight is a delicious, wine-paired lunch at a family-owned Champagne estate.
• The small group format ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• The tour offers excellent value for those wanting an immersive Champagne experience in just one day.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Introduction and Pickup

Depending on your preference or logistics, you can meet either in Epernay or Reims — both convenient starting points. The tour begins early, around 8:30 or 9:20 AM, with a quick drive through the rolling vineyards—perfect for setting the scene before diving into Champagne history. This initial transfer by air-conditioned minivan keeps the day comfortable, especially on warmer days.

Veuve Clicquot Cellars: A Big Name with a Rich Heritage

The highlight for many is the visit to Veuve Clicquot’s cellars, where you get a behind-the-scenes look at the cellars and the chance to taste four different Champagnes. The guided tour with an expert guide offers insights into the house’s legacy and production process. Reviewers have praised guides like Suzanne, who is noted for her passion and knowledge, making the experience engaging and accessible.

The four tastings at Veuve Clicquot include a variety of cuvees, giving you a well-rounded sense of the house’s portfolio. For those unfamiliar, tasting multiple styles side-by-side deepens appreciation and helps discern subtle differences—something that many reviews find invaluable.

Exploring Hautvillers: Birthplace of Champagne

Next, the tour takes you to Hautvillers, a charming village famous for being the resting place of Dom Pérignon. The walk through this picture-perfect village is a real highlight, especially for photography enthusiasts. The breathtaking viewpoints over the vineyards are often described as breathtaking and perfect for capturing memories.

Reviewers like Addy mention the “incredible views of the valley” and the historic church where Dom Pérignon is laid to rest. This stop isn’t just about photos; it provides context about the roots of Champagne-making and the peaceful ambiance of a true wine village.

The Scenic Drive and Vineyard Visits

Throughout the day, the bus makes several scenic drives through the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay and other vineyard-rich areas. These rides are a great way to relax between visits and appreciate the rolling landscape.

A visit to a family-run winery stands out as a genuine gem. Here, you’ll see a more personal approach to Champagne production—small batches, traditional methods, and a warm welcome. Several reviews highlight the insiders’ view this provides, offering insights into how smaller producers nurture their vines and craft their wines.

The Lunch: A True Culinary Highlight

The main meal—at a cozy estate—features a traditional lunch paired with Champagne. Comments from guests mention delicious food and the perfect pairing that enhances the tasting experience. Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated, but it’s advisable to mention any allergies or preferences when booking.

This sit-down experience not only satisfies hunger but also offers a relaxed environment to discuss the morning’s discoveries. Many reviewers, like Lana, describe the lunch as “10/10,” emphasizing how it complements the day’s tastings.

The Final Tasting and Wrap Up

The last part of the tour involves visiting a micro Champagne house, where you get to see a more intimate winemaking process. You’ll enjoy tasting additional Champagnes, bringing the total to nine glasses over the day. This mix of large and small producers helps paint a complete picture of Champagne production.

The tour wraps up around 4:45 PM in Epernay or 5:30 PM in Reims, just as it started, providing a full, engaging day without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic access to both iconic and family-run wineries is a big plus, allowing you to see the diversity in Champagne production. From the grandeur of Veuve Clicquot to the charm of smaller estates, there’s a nice variety that keeps the day interesting. Guests consistently mention the knowledgeable guides like Suzanne, Thomas, Leah, and Chloe, who make the experience lively and informative.

The scenic views and photo opportunities are plentiful. Many reviewers comment on the breathtaking vistas of vineyards and the picturesque village of Hautvillers—perfect for capturing memories.

Tastings, which total nine glasses, are spread out to avoid overwhelm, and the lunch is well-received, with many noting the pairing enhances the overall experience. The small group size (limited to 8) ensures personalized attention, making it feel more like visiting friends rather than a tourist herd.

The Price and Overall Value

At $386 per person, the tour is a bit on the higher side but truly reflects the value of multiple tastings, expert-guided visits, a delicious lunch, and the intimate setting of small wineries. For Champagne lovers eager to deepen their understanding and taste a variety of styles, it offers a comprehensive look that you can’t easily replicate on your own.

This is not a rushed or generic experience; it’s a thoughtfully curated journey that balances education, tasting, and scenic beauty. If you’re looking for an all-in-one Champagne day trip—without the hassle of organizing transport or tastings yourself—this tour is a solid investment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for curious wine enthusiasts, first-time visitors wanting a curated overview of Champagne, or couples and small groups seeking a memorable day out. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a mix of grandeur and authenticity—combining big-name houses with family-run estates. However, if you’re traveling with kids under 10 or prefer a very relaxed pace with fewer scheduled stops, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This Reims and Epernay Champagne tour manages to hit that sweet spot of being comprehensive yet approachable. It offers a genuine taste of the region’s best—both in terms of prestigious houses and hidden gems—all wrapped in expert guidance and scenic beauty. The combination of large, historic champagne houses and intimate family estates means you get a well-rounded look at what makes Champagne so special.

For those willing to invest in a full-day adventure of learning, tasting, and discovering, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s especially ideal for anyone who wants a mix of culture, culinary delight, and some of France’s most iconic views, all in one memorable package.

FAQ

What are the meeting points for this tour?
You can choose to meet either in front of the Tourist Office in Epernay or at Reims Centre train station, making it convenient depending on where you’re staying.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, typically starting around 8:30 or 9:20 AM and concluding in the late afternoon.

Are dietary restrictions or allergies accommodated?
Yes, the lunch at the winery can be adjusted for dietary restrictions or allergies if you mention these when booking.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation by air-conditioned minivan is part of the package, ensuring comfort while traveling between stops.

How many tastings are included?
The tour features a total of nine Champagne tastings, including four at Veuve Clicquot and others at smaller wineries.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10, likely due to the nature and duration of tastings and the winery environment.

This detailed, well-balanced tour review should help you decide whether this Champagne experience aligns with your interests. Whether you’re after a taste of luxury or an authentic glimpse into Champagne-making, this trip offers a memorable day in the French vineyards.