Small Group – Half Day Champagne Tour – Visit of 2 Small Producers/Growers

If you’re dreaming of sparkling wine, this small-group Champagne tour from Reims offers a perfect blend of intimate experiences and authentic tastings. With a maximum of just eight participants, you’ll get a chance to explore two independent, family-run producers—far from the crowds of big-name houses—and learn about Champagne in a relaxed, personal setting. The tour promises six tastings, a visit to the charming village of Hautvillers, and an opportunity to see Dom Pérignon’s burial site.

Our favorite part? How genuine and friendly the guides are—most reviewers rave about their knowledge and approachable manner. One potential drawback? The tour is strictly for adults, so it’s not suitable for children or babies. If you’re a wine-loving traveler eager for an authentic taste of Champagne, this tour ticks many boxes.

This experience is ideal for those who appreciate a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at Champagne production, prefer smaller groups over large tours, and want to learn about local producers rather than just big brands. Let’s explore what makes this half-day gem so appealing—and why it might be your best choice for discovering Champagne’s hidden treasures.

Intimate experience with a maximum of 8 guests for personalized attention.
Visit small, family-run wineries for authentic, less commercialized tastings.
Learn about the Champagne-making process from knowledgeable guides.
Taste up to 6 Champagnes during the tour—perfect for enthusiasts.
Explore Hautvillers and see Dom Pérignon’s resting place (afternoon only).
Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned Mercedes minivans, with flexible start times.

An Authentic, Personal Champagne Experience

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just a tasting at a large Champagne house. Instead, it emphasizes small producers—the hidden champions of the region—giving you a chance to meet owners, see their vineyards, and understand their craft firsthand. The fact that the tour is capped at 8 people means you’ll get more attention from your guide and more personalized insights, making it a far more engaging experience than a typical big-bus tour.

What’s unique about this experience? Its emphasis on quality over quantity. You’ll visit two producers outside Reims, both small enough to welcome you into their tasting rooms and share their passion. Reviewers frequently mention the warmth and friendliness of the hosts, and how these visits feel more genuine and less commercial.

One reviewer highlighted how they loved “meeting the owners” and appreciated the chance to go “to small family businesses,” which they found to be a more enjoyable way to connect with the region’s true spirit. The guides, especially Ana and Alex, are consistently praised for their wealth of knowledge, safety, and personable manner.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Hautvillers Village & Dom Pérignon’s Church

This stop is available only during the afternoon tour. It’s a short 15-minute visit to Hautvillers, a village famous for its picturesque streets and historic connection to Champagne. You’ll walk around the charming village, admire its stone buildings, and visit the church where Dom Pérignon, the legendary monk credited with helping to develop Champagne, is buried.

The reviews mention that this part of the tour is “very informative and fun,” with one guest noting how “the views are incredible,” making it a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to soak in the region’s beauty.

Visits to Family-Owned Wineries

The core of this tour is the visits to two small Champagne producers outside Reims. These visits are a real highlight. You’ll get a genuine look at how Champagne is made on a smaller scale, often with the owners themselves guiding you through their cellars and vineyards.

Reviewers describe these visits as “personal,” “friendly,” and “informative.” One said, “I felt we covered a lot of ground and learned about the process,” highlighting the value of having deep, expert explanations from passionate producers.

Tasting Sessions

With six Champagnes sampled during the day, you’ll have ample opportunity to taste a variety of styles—brut, blanc de blancs, rosé, and more. The tastings are considered excellent value by many, especially given that they are at small, family-run estates, which typically offer more distinctive and authentic wines compared to the big commercial brands.

One reviewer described the tastings as “fun and factual,” praising the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the wines. Another said, “the champagnes were wonderful,” and appreciated the chance to try different styles, learning what they like best.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is in comfortable Mercedes minivans with A/C, making the journey between stops smooth and enjoyable. The small group size ensures that you’re not lost in a crowd, and the experience is more akin to visiting friends’ homes than a tour bus.

Most reviews mention that the group feels intimate, with guides like Alex and Ana being praised for their friendly manner and expertise. The tour starts and ends at the central train station in Reims, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

Pricing and Value

At $139 per person, this tour offers excellent value, considering the number of tastings, private visits, and the personalized attention you’ll receive. When you compare it with larger tours that might only include one visit or more generic experiences, this one stands out for its focus on small producers and authentic stories.

Some reviews mention that the tour is well-paced—“covering a lot of ground in just a few hours”—and the price reflects the quality of the personal, behind-the-scenes access.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to learn about Champagne production from passionate, independent producers, this trip is perfect. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a more authentic and relaxed experience, away from tourist-heavy big houses.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is strictly for adults, with no children or babies allowed, so families with young kids might want to look elsewhere. If you’re after a full-day experience including visits to big brands like Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot, this tour might not be the best fit—but for those seeking small-scale, genuine explorations, it’s a winner.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Champagne tour stands out because of its focus on personalized visits to family-run producers, its expert guides, and the chance to taste a variety of authentic Champagnes in a relaxed setting. The fact that it’s capped at eight people makes it a rare opportunity to really connect with the stories behind each glass, and each stop is filled with authentic charm and knowledge.

You’ll leave with a richer understanding of Champagne’s craftsmanship, some beautiful memories of Hautvillers, and a few bottles to remember your trip by. It’s a wonderful choice for those wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy a truly personalized tasting experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or babies?
No, this tour is only available for adults. It’s designed for wine lovers who want to focus on the tastings and the stories behind the Champagne.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation in air-conditioned Mercedes minivans, visits and tastings at two small producers, and six Champagne tastings during the day. Entrance to Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon’s church is only for the afternoon tour.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity without feeling rushed or overly long.

Can I choose a morning or afternoon departure?
Yes, you can select your preferred start time—either morning or afternoon—depending on availability.

Are hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
No, the tour starts and ends at the main train station in Reims. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point.

What if I want to visit bigger Champagne houses?
This tour focuses on smaller, family-run estates and does not include visits to the major brands like Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot. If that’s your preference, you may want to look for a different experience.

In summary, this tour is a fantastic choice for anyone who values authenticity, intimacy, and high-quality tastings. It’s especially suited for curious wine lovers ready to explore the less commercialized side of Champagne with guides who truly love sharing their knowledge. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a relaxing day in beautiful surroundings, this trip provides a memorable experience that’s both educational and delicious.