From Reims morning Champagne family growers

Discover the Charm of Champagne with a Small-Group Tour from Reims
This morning tour from Reims, costing around $136 per person, lasts about 4 hours and takes you to two family-run Champagne producers. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn how champagne is made, walk through underground caves, and taste several sparkling wines in a relaxed, intimate setting.

What we love about this tour is the focus on small, authentic producers rather than the big brands, giving you a more genuine taste of Champagne’s local craftsmanship. Plus, the expert guide, often praised for their depth of knowledge and friendly demeanor, makes the experience both educational and fun.

A potential consideration? The tour operates in all weather conditions, so you’ll want to dress appropriately, especially for stops in the vines or underground cellars. Also, if you’re traveling with very young kids or seeking historical sights in Reims, this might not be your best fit since it’s primarily focused on wine production.

This tour suits anyone who loves wine, appreciates authentic experiences, and wants to enjoy a relaxed, small-group outing. It’s especially ideal if you prefer learning about champagne directly from passionate local growers rather than just sampling at larger, commercial houses.

Key Points

• Authentic small-family wineries offer a more personal and genuine Champagne experience
• Learn the entire champagne-making process, from vineyard to bottle, with expert guides
• Comfortable, intimate group size (max 8 people) ensures plenty of attention and interaction
• Underground caves and scenic vineyard views add visual interest to your tasting journey
• Six tastings included provide a great variety of Champagne styles to enjoy
• Timing is well-paced, with stops designed to maximize learning and enjoyment

Why This Champagne Tour from Reims Stands Out

If you’re looking for an experience that’s both educational and immersive, this tour hits the sweet spot. Unlike larger, busier excursions, here you’ll visit two small, family-run wineries, each with its own unique story and approach, giving you a deeper understanding of Champagne’s terroir and craftsmanship.

The tour is designed to appeal to wine lovers and curious travelers alike. With a maximum group size of 8, you get plenty of opportunities to ask questions and explore the nitty-gritty of champagne production. This intimate setting is especially appealing if you’re looking for a more personalized experience compared to larger commercial tours.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins in Reims’ Office de Tourisme du Grand Reims, centrally located near the train station, making it convenient whether you’re arriving by train or car. The first stop is at one of the small family wineries where you’ll enjoy three tastings. These visits last about 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to explore their cellars, understand their production methods, and savor their wines in a cozy, welcoming environment.

Next, you’ll stroll through the vineyards of Montagne de Reims for about 20 minutes — a chance to appreciate the landscape that shapes the wine. This part provides scenic views and context for why certain grapes thrive here.

The second winery visit involves tasting three more glasses, giving you the opportunity to compare styles and flavors. Reviewers like CJ_C appreciated that this tour “gave significantly more information and enjoyment,” highlighting the depth of knowledge shared by guides like Julie, who impressively teach guests “how to appreciate and understand champagne.”

While the tour doesn’t include a visit to major houses like Pommery or Veuve Clicquot, the focus on family-run producers offers a more authentic, less commercialized perspective. The tastings are generous, with some reviewers noting “six glasses” of champagne that ranged in style, keeping the experience engaging and varied.

What to Expect at Each Stop

First Winery:
You’ll get a detailed explanation of the champagne-making process, from vineyard practices to fermentation and bottling. Expect three tastings that highlight the winery’s unique approach. Reviewers praise guides like Suzanne and Chloé for their knowledgeability and friendly attitude, making the visit both informative and enjoyable.

Vineyard Stop:
A quick, scenic walk through the vineyards of Montagne de Reims gives you a sense of the landscape’s influence on the wine’s character. It’s a chance to photograph rolling hills and lush vines, often appreciated by guests for the visual beauty.

Second Winery:
Similar to the first, this family-run operation opens its doors for three more tastings. Many guests note the warm atmosphere and the chance to meet passionate producers dedicated to their craft. The variety of champagnes sampled here often includes some delightful surprises, with reviews mentioning “delicious” and “excellent” wines.

The Guided Experience: Knowledge, Humor, and Personal Touches

Guides like Julie, Suzanne, Jérôme, and Chloe consistently receive praise for their expertise and warmth. They often share top tips about Reims, turning a simple tasting into a mini lesson on how to appreciate champagne’s nuances. Many reviewers mention how guides wait for late arrivals and keep the group engaged with light-hearted, friendly banter.

This personal approach is what elevates the experience. You’re not just being led around; you’re actively learning how champagne is produced, aged, and enjoyed. The guides’ ability to balance information with humor makes the tour accessible and memorable.

The Value of the Experience

At $136 per person, the tour offers a great blend of quality, authenticity, and intimacy. You get entrance fees, tastings, and a dedicated guide included, which means no surprises. While food isn’t included, the six glasses of Champagne often suffice to keep your palate satisfied, especially as you compare styles and flavors.

Since the tour is often praised by guests for its well-paced schedule and small group size, it’s a strong choice for those who prefer a more personal connection to the producers. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want more than just a tasting — they want to understand the craft behind the bubbles.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts or curious travelers seeking an authentic, behind-the-scenes view of Champagne-making. It’s ideal if you want to avoid corporate glamour and prefer visiting local, family-run wineries. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy scenic vineyard walks and underground cellar visits, with plenty of time for questions and sampling.

If you’re traveling with children under 10 or looking for historical sightseeing in Reims, this might not be the right fit, as the focus is mainly on champagne production and tasting. Also, travelers who prefer included meals or want a longer, more comprehensive tour might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t provided. You’ll meet at the Office de Tourisme du Grand Reims, and the tour itself involves walking and visits to the wineries.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 3 hours and 50 minutes, including visits, tastings, and the vineyard stop.

Can I bring children?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old, as the focus is on wine tasting and education.

What should I wear?
Dress casually, especially for the vineyard walk and underground cave visits — comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are the tastings enough to get a good sense of Champagne?
Yes, with six glasses included, you’ll experience a good range of styles in a relaxed setting.

Are the visits to big Champagne houses included?
No, this tour focuses on small, family-run wineries to give a more authentic, intimate experience.

What if I’m late or want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Late arrivals may not be accommodated.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it runs in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly for outdoor and cellar visits.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to explore Champagne beyond the flashy, commercial brands, this small-group tour from Reims offers a genuine taste of local craftsmanship. You’ll visit two inviting, family-run wineries, learn about champagne production and terroir, and enjoy generous tastings in a friendly environment.

The guides’ passion and knowledge turn each stop into a mini lesson, making the experience feel personal and enriching. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, this tour delivers a balance of education, scenic beauty, and authentic flavor, all within a comfortable, intimate setting.

While it’s not a sightseeing tour of Reims’ landmarks, it’s perfect for those who want to deepen their appreciation of champagne and its origins. If you value authenticity, expert guidance, and small-group intimacy, this morning tour is hard to beat.

In summary, this tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic, educational, and relaxing introduction to Champagne’s world. It’s especially valuable for those who want to support local producers while gaining a genuine understanding of how this sparkling wine is crafted and enjoyed.