Reims/Epernay: Private Moet & Chandon Winery Tour & Tastings

Planning a visit to the Champagne region? This private tour offers a thoughtful and in-depth look at the world’s most famous bubbly. Starting from either Reims or Épernay, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring iconic estates, charming villages, and tasting some of the finest Champagne. For around $1,087 per group, this experience promises personalized attention, authentic visits, and a taste of the region’s heritage.

We appreciate how this tour balances luxury and authenticity. Visiting both a renowned Moët & Chandon and a local family-run winery means you get the grandeur of a famous house alongside the intimacy of local craftsmanship. Plus, the walk through Hautvillers, once home to Dom Perignon, ties history and culture into your day.

One thing to consider: this is a full day of sightseeing, so comfortable shoes are a must, and some may find the schedule quite packed. It’s best suited for those who love wine, history, and a bit of a luxe experience, but also want to avoid the crowds on a small-group, private basis.

If you’re after a deep dive into Champagne’s most celebrated houses, combined with a taste of local charm, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with an expert guide
• Includes visits to Moët & Chandon and a local family estate
• Two Champagne tastings to sample top-quality bubbly
• Explore the historic village of Hautvillers, home of Dom Perignon
• Comfortable transportation in a luxury van from Reims or Épernay
• Good for wine lovers seeking authentic, high-end Champagne experiences

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Your Champagne Day

The Charm of the Champagne Region

When we think of Champagne, the images are often of grand estates and sparkling bottles. This tour offers a chance to see both the glamour of Avenue de Champagne in Épernay and the quieter, more intimate side of the region. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel or train station in an air-conditioned luxury van, ensuring you start the day in comfort.

The scenic drive between sites is a pleasant break, giving you a chance to soak in the rolling vineyards and quaint villages. The route includes several scenic drives—approximately 30 minutes to the Moët estate, 10 minutes along Avenue de Champagne, and various other short trips between stops. Each phase adds to the overall experience, making it easy to relax and enjoy the views.

Visiting Moët & Chandon: The Grande Dame

The highlight for many is a visit to the world-famous Moët & Chandon. Your guide will arrange the tour and tasting, which typically lasts about 105 minutes. While the specifics depend on availability, the experience usually includes a walk through the cellars, learning about the history of this iconic house, and understanding what makes their Champagne so special.

Most guests appreciate the skip-the-line access and the chance to enjoy a guided tasting in a setting that’s as much about storytelling as it is about sipping. Expect to learn about the traditional methods of production and the distinct qualities of Moët Champagne.

A few reviews mention that the tour can vary if Moët is unavailable, replaced by another prestigious house like G.H Mumm or Pommery, but the experience remains high-quality overall.

Strolling Avenue de Champagne

After the Moët visit, you’ll have some time to walk along Avenue de Champagne in Épernay. Known as the “Champagne Capital,” this street is lined with spectacular champagne houses in impressive grand buildings. It’s a lively place full of history and commerce, perfect for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

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Lunch and Local Charm

Following the morning’s visits, your guide will recommend a spot for lunch, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred style—whether a cozy bistro or a more upscale restaurant. We love having this option, as it allows travelers to enjoy regional cuisine or relax over a leisurely meal.

Exploring Hautvillers: Dom Perignon’s Village

The afternoon takes you to Hautvillers, a picturesque village famous for being the home of Dom Perignon, the monk credited with refining Champagne’s quality. The guided tour here lasts about 45 minutes and offers a chance to walk through narrow streets, visit the abbey, and learn about the monk’s pivotal role in Champagne history.

Guests often mention the charming ambiance and the opportunity to see where some of the finest Champagne was first brewed. It’s a quiet, historic spot that adds depth to your understanding of Champagne’s heritage.

Tasting at a Local Winery

The final stop is a visit to a family-run estate, where you’ll enjoy another Champagne tasting lasting about 105 minutes. This is a gem for those wanting to see the craftsmanship behind lesser-known but equally high-quality Champagne. The owner or winemaker often shares insights into the artisanship of small producers—a contrast to the grandeur of Moët.

The reviews highlight how authentic and personal these visits are, allowing for questions and tailored experiences. This part of the tour emphasizes local tradition and quality—a genuine highlight for connoisseurs.

End of Day and Return

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll be taken back to your hotel or train station. The entire experience is designed to be seamless and stress-free, with pickups and drop-offs included, ensuring you can focus on enjoying Champagne rather than logistics.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

While the price may seem high, the value lies in the personalized attention, curated visits, and expert guide. You’re not just touring a Champagne house; you’re experiencing the diverse sides of the region—from the largest estates to intimate family wineries, and historic villages.

The flexibility to choose Reims or Épernay as your starting point, combined with the private setting, makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a more tailored, comfortable day. The small-group format ensures plenty of interaction and questions, which enhances the educational and tasting aspects.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Champagne’s production process or those seeking a luxury, authentic experience. It also suits travelers with a moderate to high budget who value personalized service and in-depth visits. If you’re curious about history, local culture, or just want to indulge in some of the world’s finest bubbles, this tour hits the right notes.

This private Champagne tour offers a comprehensive, well-balanced day designed to satisfy both connoisseurs and curious travelers. While it’s a bit of a splurge, the combination of famous houses, local charm, and expert guidance makes it a worthwhile investment for those looking to really understand and taste Champagne in its homeland.

Expect a day filled with beautiful scenery, fascinating stories, and exquisite bubbles. It’s an experience that stays with you long after the last glass is poured, especially knowing you’ve seen the varied faces of Champagne, from legendary estates to tiny family cellars.

For anyone wanting a personalized, immersive Champagne adventure, this tour offers a fine balance of luxury and authenticity. It’s best suited for those who truly value quality experiences over quick visits and appreciate a good story behind every sip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for wine beginners?
Yes. The guide explains the production and tasting process in accessible language, making it a good introduction for those new to Champagne.

How long is the journey between stops?
The drive between sites varies but generally includes scenic drives of 10 to 30 minutes, providing comfortable transitions without long bus rides.

Can I choose the starting point?
Yes. You can be picked up from either Reims or Épernay, whichever is more convenient for your accommodation or travel plans.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and a face mask or protective covering are recommended, especially when visiting cellars.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes. The tour includes two guided tastings: one at Moët & Chandon and another at a local family estate.

What happens if Moët & Chandon isn’t available?
Your guide will arrange for a visit to another prestigious Champagne house such as De Castellane, G.H Mumm, or Pommery.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The schedule is quite structured but includes time for lunch and exploration, allowing you to enjoy each stop at a comfortable pace.

Is this a private tour?
Yes. It’s designed for your group only, providing a tailored experience with an expert guide.

What’s the duration of the full tour?
Approximately 8 hours, from pickup to drop-off, making it a full, satisfying day trip.

Would this tour be good for a special occasion?
Absolutely. Its personalized and luxurious nature makes it ideal for anniversaries, birthdays, or just a special outing.

Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or simply looking to treat yourself to an elegant day in Champagne, this tour offers a rewarding blend of history, culture, and, of course, Champagne.

You can check availability for your dates here: