Planning a trip to France’s Champagne region? This 7 to 8-hour guided tour offers a chance to explore three family-owned Champagne estates of Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards around Epernay. Led by passionate local guides, the experience combines cellar visits, tastings, gourmet food pairings, and a playful aroma workshop — a perfect way to deepen your appreciation of Champagne beyond just popping the cork.
We love how this tour balances educational insights with delicious indulgence. The visits to three distinct estates reveal the diversity of Champagne styles, from vintages to natural, non-dosed bottles. Plus, the gastronomic pairings — 15 dishes paired with 15 different Champagnes and regional products — elevate the tasting experience, making each sip even more memorable.
A potential drawback? The itinerary is quite packed, which might leave some looking for more relaxed pacing. Still, if you’re eager to see a variety of vineyards and taste a broad spectrum of Champagne, this tour hits the mark.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate good food, want to learn about Champagne’s production, and prefer small, private groups to keep the experience intimate and engaging. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just curious about the region’s famous bubbly, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
Key Points
- Exclusive visits to 3 family estates of Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagne producers.
- 15 guided tastings paired with regional dishes and local products for a gourmet experience.
- Insightful aroma workshop that helps you understand Champagne’s complex scents and flavors.
- Visits to historic vineyards and scenic stops offering views of France’s champagne-producing hillsides.
- Expert guides who share their passion and knowledge, making the experience both fun and educational.
- All-inclusive with pickup, transport in a premium vehicle, and a delicious Champagne lunch.
A Practical Look at the Food & Champagne Experience
When you book this tour, you’re signing up for a comprehensive immersion into the Champagne region — not just the tasting, but understanding what makes this sparkling wine so special. The experience is centered around Epernay, often called the “Capital of Champagne,” and the surrounding villages such as Aÿ-Champagne, Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, and Oger, each with their unique terroir and history.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
Pickup & Starting Point
The tour begins with convenient pickup options from either Reims or Épernay, ensuring a smooth start without fussing over logistics. Your guide will greet you in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, setting a relaxed tone for the day.
Mareuil-sur-Aÿ — Guided estate visit and tasting (75 minutes)
Here, you’ll tour a family-run Champagne estate, where you’ll begin to see the century-old traditions firsthand. Expect to visit the winery, see the press, and learn about the Champagne-making process, from grape to bottle.
Aÿ-Champagne — Vineyard walk and tasting (45 minutes)
This stop offers more than just wine; it’s a lesson in terroir. You’ll get a chance to understand sustainable viticulture and see Pinot Noir Grand Cru vineyards, famous for their quality and finesse.
Vineyard Scenic Stop — Photo opportunity and short visit (30 minutes)
Few sights compare to the rolling hills of the Côte des Blancs. The views give you a sense of why Champagne grapes thrive in this climate, with picturesque vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see.
Monthelon — Lunch with Champagne and regional delicacies (1.5 hours)
Lunch at a local winemaker’s home features Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes paired with charcuterie, regional cheeses like Chaource and Langres, and cured ham. This is a real treat, especially if you love authentic, regional flavors paired thoughtfully with Champagne.
Oger — Final estate visit and tasting (1.5 hours)
Here, you’ll explore a family estate producing both blended and single-varietal Champagnes, including Blanc de Blancs and Noirs. The tasting includes vintages, old vines, and oak-aged bottles — giving a full spectrum of styles.
Avenue de Champagne, Épernay — Guided pass through the famous street (10 minutes)
This iconic avenue is lined with historic houses like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët. A quick pass-by allows you to soak in the grandeur and history of Champagne production.
Drop-off
The tour concludes with drop-off back at your hotel or accommodation, feeling satisfied with a day full of flavor and knowledge.
The Tasting & Food Pairings
One of the biggest highlights of this tour is the 15 tastings paired with 15 dishes sourced from regional products. The Champagnes include Grand Cru and Premier Cru varieties like Blanc de Blancs, Noirs, and natural, non-dosed options like extra brut and rosé. The variety ensures you experience the range of styles and aging techniques, from vintages to single plots.
Along With Champagne, you’ll try local alcohols like Ratafias, Fine de la Marne, and Marc de Champagne, which are lesser-known outside the region but add depth to your tasting knowledge. The Ratafias are especially intriguing, with “several Ratafias” tasting, including a rare one made from a forgotten grape variety—a highlight for the curious.
Lunch is a real culinary journey. Paired with Grand Cru or Premier Cru Champagne, regional charcuterie, and cheeses, the meal balances the bubbly’s acidity and complexity with hearty, flavorful regional fare. Highlights include Jambon de Reims, cured ham, and duck rillettes, all served with freshly baked baguette.
The sweet finale features chocolate filled with Ratafia and a regional specialty, the Biscuit Rose, which has been made since 1756. During snack time, you’ll taste more Champagne with Biscuits Roses from Fossier, adding a crunchy, sweet contrast.
Authentic and Engaging Experiences
The aroma workshop is a playful yet informative activity where you’ll attempt to identify Champagne’s complex scents. Many reviewers appreciated this as a fun learning experience — one reviewer noted, “pass or fail, it’s a great way to understand why Champagne smells and tastes the way it does.”
More Great Tours NearbyTransportation & Group Size
The tour uses a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the day’s travel across various villages and vineyards. The private group setting means more personalized attention and the chance to ask questions freely. Group sizes are kept small, typically private, making conversations more intimate and allowing guides to tailor explanations based on your interests.
Pricing & Value
At $819 per person, this tour might seem steep, but it offers a lot: visits, tastings, gourmet food, a workshop, and an experienced guide in a private setting. If you’re a foodie or wine lover eager to understand Champagne’s nuances, you’ll find this a worthwhile investment. Cheaper options might only include basic tastings or larger groups, so this experience’s intimacy and depth make it stand out.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers who prefer small groups for a more personal touch, enjoy learning about wine and food, and want to experience authentic family estates rather than big commercial houses. It’s perfect for those who appreciate regional cuisine and enjoy immersive tastings paired with regional dishes. If you’re seeking a comprehensive day that combines sightseeing, education, and indulgence, this tour will serve you well.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For true Champagne enthusiasts or curious travelers wanting a well-rounded, authentic experience, this tour offers a rare look into family-run estates and their craft. The combination of cellar visits, tastings, scenic vineyard views, and regional food makes it a comprehensive and memorable day.
If you’re after luxury, learning, and a taste of local life, it hits all the right notes. Keep in mind the busy schedule and plan to be ready for a full, immersive day. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to maximize their Champagne experience without the hassle of organizing multiple visits themselves.
FAQ
How many estates will I visit?
You’ll visit 3 family estates of Champagne Grand Cru and Premier Cru producers, each offering a different perspective on the region’s winemaking.
Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the 15 tastings are all included, with a variety of Champagnes and regional alcohols, plus food pairings during lunch and snack time.
What kind of Champagne will I taste?
You’ll taste Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes, including blended, single varietal, vintage, and natural non-dosed options like extra brut and rosé.
Is food included?
Yes, the tour features a gourmet lunch at a local producer, with regional cheeses, charcuterie, and regional specialties like Jambon de Reims and duck rillettes, all paired with Champagne.
What about transportation?
You’ll travel comfortably in a premium air-conditioned vehicle. Pickup and drop-off are included, with options from Reims or Épernay.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is designed for private groups, making it more personalized and flexible than larger tour options.
Can I book with flexible payment?
Absolutely. You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation allowed up to 24 hours in advance.
If you’re looking for an engaging, delicious, and educational day in Champagne, this tour offers a well-rounded peek behind the scenes of family-owned vineyards. Its emphasis on authenticity, regional cuisine, and intimate tastings makes it stand out from more generic Champagne outings. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just eager to soak in the region’s beauty, this experience promises plenty of memorable moments — all in a manageable, well-curated package.
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