3 days in Champagne – “Aromas” experience

A Taste of the Champagne Region: 3 Days of “Aromas” Experience

Planning a trip to France’s Champagne region can be overwhelming — so many houses, small producers, scenic vineyards, and vintage bottles to consider. This 3-day “Aromas” experience offers a carefully curated journey through the heart of Champagne, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the region’s spirit to life. Priced at around $2,903.61 per person, it’s an investment in guided luxury that’s often booked 251 days in advance—a sign of its popularity among connoisseurs and curious travelers alike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the balanced mix of visits to big, iconic houses like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot with exclusive tastings, and the intimate encounters with small, family-owned producers. Second, the immersive nature of the experience — tasting rare and vintage bottles, exploring unique landscapes, and engaging with real winemakers who are passionate about their craft.

On the flip side, this isn’t a casual, drop-in winery tour. It’s a full, in-depth experience, with strict schedules, private transportation, and a hefty price tag. If you’re looking for a relaxed, budget-friendly day or prefer smaller group settings, this might not be your best fit.

However, if you’re a serious Champagne enthusiast eager for detailed knowledge, exclusive tastings, and authentic encounters, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s especially ideal for those who love a luxury experience that combines history, scenery, and rare wines in a well-organized package.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary mixing large Champagne houses with small producers
• Expert guides and private transportation enhance personalization and comfort
• Multiple tastings (21 total) providing a broad spectrum of flavors
• In-depth visits to cellars, vineyards, and special sites like the Cathedral of Reims
• Unique experiences like tasting rare vintage Champagnes and still wines from French oak barrels
• All-inclusive with lunch and transportation, but no dinners or accommodations

A Deep Dive Into the Champagne “Aromas” Experience

If you’re eyeing a trip to Champagne, this three-day tour offers a well-rounded look at the region’s sparkling wines, from the grandest houses to the smallest family producers. It’s a chance to explore the diversity of Champagne styles, meet the people behind the bottles, and gain an understanding of what makes each Champagne unique.

Day 1: Visiting the Big Names

Your journey begins with visits to four of the most famous Champagne houses. Each offers a different perspective, from historic cellars to modern branding.

Champagnes Pommery kicks things off with a walk through its historic cellars, enjoying tastings in the old vinification centre. We loved how the tour included seeing the biggest bottles of Champagne aging in the underground vaults — a sight that underscores the scale of these historic houses. The guide explained how this house’s art nouveau style and vintage cellars contribute to its charm.

Next, at Veuve Clicquot, you get a taste of branding elegance — browsing their beautifully curated shop and sampling in their tasting room. The emphasis on presentation and storytelling adds to the experience, especially for those who like a touch of glamour with their bubbles.

Moët & Chandon offers an even deeper look into Champagne production, including a visit to the cellars where you’ll taste Moët and learn about its massive production scale. The shop is full of bottles and branding memorabilia — a good spot for souvenirs.

Finally, at Champagne Mercier, the highlight is a cellar tour via a small train, which allows you to see the expansive underground network without tiring. The visit to the largest Champagne oak barrel — holding 200,000 bottles — is a memorable photo moment.

What we loved: The variety of the big houses’ tours, each with its own style and focus, plus the inclusion of seven different Champagne tastings that give a well-rounded introduction to the region’s most iconic brands.

Possible drawback: The schedule can be tight, with each house visit lasting between one to two hours. For some, this might feel rushed, especially if you’re eager to linger longer at any stop.

Day 2: Meeting Small Producers and Exploring the Landscape

The second day takes you into more intimate territory—visiting two small, family-run wineries. These are true highlights because they give you a personal connection to Champagne-making.

In Sermiers, you’ll meet a winemaker in a Grand Cru village, who will give you a private tour of their press and vinification process. Tasting at least four different Champagnes, you’ll gain insights into how small-scale producers craft their wines with care and passion. One reviewer remarked, “We felt like VIPs, tasting wines specially selected for us in a private setting.”

The visit to Rilly-la-Montagne, a 1er Cru village, reveals how location influences flavor profiles. Meeting another dedicated winemaker, you’ll learn how their methods differ from larger houses, and taste wines that showcase the distinct terroir. The drive through vineyards in the UNESCO-listed landscape of Verzy adds a scenic touch.

What we loved: The chance to talk directly with winemakers and taste distinct regional styles. The visits are free of charge, emphasizing the authentic, hands-on nature of this part of the tour.

Consideration: The small producer visits are brief (about two hours each), so if you’re eager for a longer, more relaxed experience, you might find these stops somewhat quick.

Day 3: Exploring Rare Bottles and Unique Sites

The third day dives deeper into Champagne’s rarest and most distinctive bottles. Meeting a winemaker in Beaumont-sur-Vesle, you get to taste exceptional Chardonnay and learn about the concept of a “Clos”, a tiny vineyard with unique qualities. Tasting wines directly from oak barrels sharpens your palate, differentiating Chardonnay from Pinot Noir.

The visit to Verzenay, a traditional old-school winemaker who has preserved vintage bottles for decades, offers a fascinating look at aromas and aging. Tasting bottles up to 25 years old, you’ll notice how Champagne’s flavors evolve over time — a real treat for collectors or those curious about aging Champagne.

In Hautvillers, you’ll stroll through the village associated with Dom Pérignon, and end with a scenic drive along Avenue de Champagne in Épernay. These highlights provide a perfect capstone, blending history, stunning views, and a sense of place.

What we loved: The inclusion of vintage tastings and comparisons of “extra-dry,” “zero,” and brut Champagnes — providing a comparative tasting that’s rare in standard tours.

Possible drawback: The day is packed with stops, so expect to be on the move, and some may find the schedule intense.

How the Tour Works in Practice

The entire experience is private, with transportation arranged exclusively for your group. This means you’re not stuck in a large bus with strangers, but instead, enjoy a tailored, comfortable ride. The schedule includes three lunches — a thoughtful touch that breaks up the day and lets you savor regional cuisine alongside Champagne tastings.

The timing is generally well-paced, though days are long and full, with most visits lasting around two hours. The number of tastings (21 total) is designed to give a broad tasting experience without overwhelming.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers all tastings, private transportation, and lunches, making it a good value for an all-in experience. However, dinners and accommodations are not included, so plan those separately. Also, beverages during lunch are extra, which allows you to choose your pairing.

Authentic Experiences as Highlight

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer called their guide Stephane “fabulous in every way,” emphasizing how the guide’s passion enhances the experience. Many appreciated the personalized attention; the tour is only for your group, which means conversations and questions are encouraged.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This isn’t a casual visit to Champagne. It’s suited for wine lovers who want a detailed, immersive experience, and are happy to invest both time and money. Enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to taste rare vintages and meet passionate winemakers, while history buffs will appreciate visits to landmarks like the Cathedral of Reims.

It’s also perfect for travelers who value luxury, comfort, and expert guidance. If you’re traveling with friends or family who share your interest in history, culture, and fine wines, this tour offers memorable moments that you’ll talk about for years.

Final Thoughts

This three-day “Aromas” experience offers an in-depth journey through Champagne’s vineyards, cellars, and history, making it ideal for those seeking a luxury, educational, and authentic wine tour. The combination of big house visits, small producer encounters, and rare tastings creates a well-rounded picture of what makes Champagne unique.

While the price may seem high, the value lies in the personalized guide, exclusive tastings, and scenic visits. It’s a wonderful way to truly understand the craftsmanship behind Champagne, beyond just the bubbles.

If your goal is to deepen your appreciation, taste the rarest bottles, and enjoy the company of passionate producers, this tour will deliver. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling on a strict budget, consider lighter or shorter options.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on tastings, non-drinkers can still enjoy the sights, scenery, and educational aspects. However, most activities involve Champagne tastings.

How many tastings are included?
There are a total of 21 Champagne tastings across the three days, including visits to both big houses and small producers.

What is the group size?
Since this is a private tour, you won’t be with strangers — only your group. This makes for a more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes three lunches, allowing you to enjoy regional cuisine alongside your Champagne tastings. Dinners are not included.

How long are the visits?
Most visits last around 1.5 to 2 hours, providing enough time to explore, ask questions, and taste without feeling rushed.

What is the price point like?
At about $2,903.61 per person, it’s a premium experience aimed at travelers who value exclusivity, depth, and comfort.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation is included, making logistics seamless and comfortable.

Can children or teenagers join?
While not explicitly stated, this tour is generally geared toward adults, especially those interested in wine and history.

What’s the best time of year to go?
Most of the scenic and vineyard visits are ideal from late spring to early fall, but the tour schedule is flexible year-round.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking, layers for varying indoor/outdoor temperatures, and smart casual attire are recommended.

In sum, this 3-day “Aromas” Champagne tour offers a deep, authentic dive into one of France’s most celebrated regions. Whether you’re a serious wine connoisseur or a curious traveler looking for a memorable adventure, it’s a journey worth considering.