Exclusive Champagne tour: 2 family houses and restaurant

A Private Champagne Experience in France’s Grand Est Region
This exclusive tour takes you through the heart of Champagne country, visiting two family-owned boutique houses with a knowledgeable guide, all wrapped in a private Mercedes ride. For $690 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring Reims or Épernay, enjoying tastings, a gourmet 3-course lunch, and discovering charming countryside views.
What we love most is how intimate and tailored this experience feels—you’re not part of a big bus group but rather in a small, private setting that allows for genuine conversations and unhurried visits. The personalized nature of the tour means you get the chance to ask all your questions—no rushing, just enjoying the process.
One possible drawback could be the price, especially if you’re traveling solo or with a small group, but given the quality of the visits and the exclusivity, many will find this to be excellent value. This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts who appreciate authentic, family-run estates and want a luxury experience that balances education, tasting, and sightseeing in a single day.

Key Points

Private and personalized: Your own Mercedes and guide ensure a relaxed, tailored experience.
Two boutique champagne houses: Visit family-owned estates with ancestral know-how.
Gourmet lunch included: Enjoy a three-course meal at a top regional restaurant.
Discovery of the countryside: Scenic views and charming spots enhance the day.
Flexible pickup/drop-off: Reims or Épernay, with options for other locations at an extra cost.
Knowledgeable guides: Guides speak English and French, sharing insightful stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Champagne Experience

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The Itinerary: A Balance of Visits and Scenic Beauty

This tour is carefully structured to give you a taste of the region’s champagne craftsmanship while also enjoying the pastoral charm of the Champagne countryside. It begins with your pick-up in either Reims or Épernay, two of the region’s most iconic towns.
The guided tour of Reims (40 minutes) offers a quick but rich context about the area’s history and significance, setting the scene for your day. Then, you visit your first champagne house, where you’ll taste prestigious cuvées and learn about their ancestral know-how. The 1.5-hour tasting allows for conversation and savoring.
Next, a relaxing 1.5-hour lunch at a highly regarded regional restaurant makes for a perfect break. The three-course meal is included, and while drinks are not, you’ll find plenty of opportunity to enjoy local flavors.
In the afternoon, you’ll explore Epernay, including a quick guided tour (20 minutes) before heading to your second champagne house for another 1.5-hour tasting. The focus here is on boutique, family-owned producers, which many reviews praise for their authenticity.
The day concludes with your drop-off in either Épernay or Reims, leaving you with memorable sights, tastes, and stories.

Visiting Family-Owned Champagne Houses: Why It Matters

Unlike large commercial champagne houses, these family-run estates tend to be more personal and authentically passionate about their craft. You might find themselves more willing to share secrets or stories, making the visit more engaging. According to reviews, guides often highlight the ancestral know-how passed down through generations, which adds depth to the tasting experience.
The tastings focus on prestigious cuvées, giving you a taste of the region’s finest, often with a special emphasis on small-batch productions. Many reviewers note the exclusivity of visiting these lesser-known estates, which enhances the feeling of discovery.

The Gastronomic Lunch: A Highlight

Included in the tour is a 3-course lunch at one of the best restaurants in the region. This isn’t just a quick bite; it’s a chance to savor regional specialties in a refined setting. Though drinks during lunch are not included, the quality of the food and the setting make it well worth the time. It’s a relaxed moment to reflect on the morning’s tastings and enjoy the local atmosphere.

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Transportation: Comfort and Flexibility

Travel is in a luxury private Mercedes car, ensuring a quiet, comfortable ride with climate control. The private chauffeur/guide makes stops easy and adds a layer of personal service. Pickup and drop-off are available at your hotel, train station, or other locations within Reims or Épernay, with options to arrange out of the region for an additional fee.
This setup means you won’t be stuck on a crowded bus or in a large group—your experience is tailored and relaxed.

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What Past Travelers Say

Multiple reviews mention the knowledgeability of guides as a standout feature. One reviewer said, “Our guide was incredibly informative, sharing stories about the family estates and the art of champagne-making.” Others appreciate the scenic countryside views, which provide a peaceful contrast to the tasting sessions.
Some mention that the timing is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed.

Possible Considerations

The price might seem high for some, especially if you’re on a budget, but when you consider the private transport, the visits, tastings, and lunch, it offers a luxury, all-inclusive package. Keep in mind that drinks during lunch are not included, so those who want to indulge further might want to budget extra.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who truly values authentic experiences and prefers exploring small, family-owned estates rather than large commercial brands, this tour is a perfect match. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts who appreciate guided insights and the chance to ask questions.
Couples or small groups seeking a luxury, private day in the Champagne region will find this experience both comfortable and memorable. Travelers who enjoy scenic countryside, gourmet food, and learning about heritage will also feel right at home.

Final Thoughts

This exclusive Champagne tour offers a well-balanced blend of luxury, authenticity, and education. With visits to two boutique houses, an indulgent lunch, and scenic drives, it’s a wholesome way to understand the art of champagne-making while enjoying the beautiful landscape. The private setup ensures you can tailor the day to your interests, and the knowledgeable guides bring stories and insights that elevate the experience beyond just tasting.

While the cost may be higher than some group tours, the personalized service and access to family-run estates make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a luxury, authentic taste of Champagne. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in one of France’s most iconic products, this tour promises a day of refined pleasures and memorable discoveries.

FAQ

What are the pickup options?
You can be picked up from your accommodation in Reims or Épernay. There’s also an option for pickup outside these areas at an extra cost.

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Guides speak both English and French, so you can choose your preferred language. The explanation is clear and engaging in both languages.

Are drinks during lunch included?
No, drinks during lunch are not included, but you’ll enjoy a three-course meal with regional specialties. You might want to bring some extra euros for drinks.

Can I customize the starting time?
Yes, the starting time can be adjusted to suit your schedule, making it flexible for your travel plans.

Is this tour good for large groups?
No, it’s designed for private groups, which allows for a personalized, relaxed experience.

How long are the tastings?
Each champagne house visit includes about 1.5 hours of tastings, giving plenty of time to savor and learn about each cuvée.

What about transportation?
Transportation is in a private, air-conditioned Mercedes car, ensuring comfort during the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility in your travel plans.

This tour is for those eager to experience Champagne in a genuine, luxurious way, with the advantage of visiting family-run estates and enjoying a scenic, gourmet day out. If you love wine, history, and beautiful landscapes, this experience delivers on all fronts.