Reims/Epernay: Private Veuve Clicquot Champagne Tasting Tour

Imagine a day spent exploring France’s most celebrated bubbly, with luxurious transport, expert guides, and visits to iconic Champagne houses. For about $1,087 per group, this private eight-hour tour whisks you from Reims or Épernay to the legendary Veuve Clicquot, with stops at historic sites and scenic vineyards.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to walk through a family estate — a more intimate, authentic look at Champagne production — and to wander inside the majestic Reims Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. These details give the tour a personal touch that you won’t get with larger, less tailored excursions.

A small consideration worth noting is the price point. While it’s a premium experience, the inclusion of private transport, guided tours, and multiple tastings makes it a strong value for wine lovers wanting a personalized day.

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a comprehensive, luxury experience that combines history, culture, and the very best of Champagne craftsmanship. It’s ideal for couples, honeymooners, or small groups of friends seeking a seamless, all-in-one day with a focus on authentic encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Luxury and Privacy: Private group offering a personalized experience with hotel pickup and drop-off.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits include Reims Cathedral, a renowned Champagne house, and a local family estate.
Authentic Experiences: Guided tours and tastings emphasize real craftsmanship and tradition.
Flexibility and Convenience: Scenic drives, lunch recommendations, and skip-the-line entry make the day flow smoothly.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable English-speaking guides enrich your understanding of Champagne’s history and production.
Value for Enthusiasts: Multiple tastings and exclusive visits support a deep dive into Champagne culture.

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A Closer Look at the Tour

This private Champagne day trip kicks off with convenient pickup from your accommodation in Reims or Épernay. Traveling in a luxury vehicle, you’ll enjoy a scenic 30-minute drive into the Champagne countryside, where the rolling vineyards and charming villages set the scene for a day of discovery.

The first major stop is the Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Visitors Center, where you’ll take a guided tour of the cellars and learn about the history and secrets behind their world-famous Champagne. The tour includes a tasting of their signature products, giving you a taste of the house that popularized the now-iconic yellow label. One reviewer mentions, “The guided tour was very informative — I loved hearing the history behind Veuve Clicquot and tasting their different varieties.”

After about 1 hour and 45 minutes, you’re back on the road for a brief 15-minute drive to the Reims Cathedral. Here, a live-guided tour of this stunning Gothic masterpiece reveals its impressive stained glass windows, towering arches, and historical significance as the site of French kings’ coronations. A visitor remarked, “The cathedral is breathtaking, with intricate stonework and soaring ceilings — it’s a must-see in Reims.”

Next, you’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch break—your guide can recommend local spots, and you’ll have about 1.5 hours to eat at your leisure. This is a good opportunity to savor some regional specialties or simply relax before more Champagne adventures.

The afternoon continues with scenic drives through the vineyards of the Reims Mountain, where you’ll see the charming villages and winding rows of grapevines. These views are ideal for photos and provide context for Champagne’s terroir.

One of the highlights is a visit to a local family estate, where you’ll walk through the production facilities, learn about traditional techniques, and taste more Champagne. Reviewers appreciate this more intimate setting, saying, “It’s refreshing to see a family-run winery; the personal touch made the tasting much more memorable.”

The tour concludes with a final visit and tasting at another renowned Champagne house, which may be Veuve Clicquot or another respected producer like Taittinger, G.H. Mumm, or Pommery, depending on availability. This second tasting allows you to compare styles and deepen your appreciation for the diversity within French Champagne.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy scenic drives totaling about 1 hour and 30 minutes, punctuated by informative commentary from your guide. The return journey wraps up in Reims or Épernay, just in time for dinner or further exploration.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The appeal of this tour lies in its blend of luxury, authenticity, and convenience. Many reviews highlight how the private setting enhances the experience: “Having our own guide made the day feel tailored to our interests, and the private tastings felt exclusive.” The careful selection of stops — from a historic cathedral to a family estate — means you’ll get a well-rounded view of Champagne, its history, and its traditions.

Another highlight is the quality of the tastings. Multiple reviews note that the Champagne was “delicious” and “authentic,” with some mentioning that the estate tour helped them appreciate the nuances of different varieties. The inclusion of a guided visit to a family estate is particularly valued, offering a glimpse into production that larger, commercial tours may gloss over.

Some reviews also note the value of skip-the-line access at Veuve Clicquot, which can be a real advantage during busy periods, making the experience more relaxed and less rushed.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour offers a lot, the price point might be a barrier for some travelers. At over a thousand dollars, it’s a significant investment, but when you factor in private transportation, expert guides, multiple tastings, and exclusive visits, it becomes a premium, high-value experience.

Another consideration is the availability of Veuve Clicquot, as tours are subject to availability and may be replaced by other Champagne houses. This flexibility ensures you still get a quality experience, but it’s worth noting if your heart is set on Veuve Clicquot specifically.

Lastly, the duration—8 hours—means it’s a full day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and moderate walking, especially inside large cathedrals and wineries.

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Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for wine aficionados and those eager to learn about Champagne’s production in depth. It suits travelers seeking a luxurious, personalized day with a mix of cultural, historical, and culinary highlights. Small groups and private settings make it ideal for couples, honeymooners, or small groups of friends who value exclusivity and expert attention.

If you’re looking for a rundown—from Gothic architecture to vineyard views—and enjoy sampling top-tier Champagne along the way, this tour checks all the boxes.

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The Sum Up

This private day trip to Reims and Épernay offers a detailed, immersive look into the heart of Champagne country. The combination of historic sites, intimate wine tastings, and scenic drives makes it a memorable experience for those willing to invest in a high-quality, guided journey. The emphasis on authentic, family-run estates alongside legendary Champagne houses ensures a well-rounded understanding of the region’s traditions.

While the cost is on the higher side, the luxury transport, personalized attention, and exclusive visits justify the investment for true Champagne lovers. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, in-depth, and authentic exploration of France’s most famous sparkling wine in a single, well-organized day.

If you crave a blend of history, culture, and delicious bubbles, with a touch of luxury, this tour is hard to beat. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, prepare for a full day, and bring your curiosity and appetite for both knowledge and Champagne.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is a private group experience, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, guide services, tours and tastings at Veuve Clicquot and a family estate, and the Reims Cathedral visit.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, pickups are available from designated locations in Reims or Épernay.

How long is each stop?
The Veuve Clicquot tour and tasting last about 1 hour and 45 minutes, the Reims Cathedral guided visit takes around 45 minutes, and the estate visit includes tasting and walk-through.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is on your own, but your guide will recommend nice places to eat nearby.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, and a face mask or protective covering if needed.

Is Veuve Clicquot guaranteed?
Not always — it depends on availability, and the visit might be replaced with another Champagne house such as Taittinger or Pommery.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with your guide beforehand.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 5 days in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a balanced, immersive look into Champagne’s most iconic sights and tastes. It’s a great choice for those seeking a seamless, luxurious day that blends culture, history, and world-class wine in the heart of France’s Champagne region.