Ruinart Tasting and Fun Private Tour in Champagne

A Day of Champagne and Culture: Ruinart Tasting and Fun Private Tour in Champagne

When you think of Champagne, you probably picture bubbling glasses, festive celebrations, and vineyards stretching endlessly. This private tour from Reims, offered by Uncork Champagne Tours for $642 per person, takes you beyond the bottle. Over eight hours, you’ll visit historic cellars, admire the stunning Reims Cathedral, and taste exceptional Champagne from renowned houses and boutique producers.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are the hands-on experiences—from exploring the ancient Roman mines used by Ruinart, to learning how Champagne is made at a small, family-run winery. The intimate, private group setting ensures a relaxed atmosphere, with knowledgeable guides who make the complex world of Champagne both accessible and fun.

A possible consideration is the tour’s full day schedule, which can feel a bit packed for those seeking a more leisurely pace. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget time and money for a meal in Reims.

This experience suits travelers eager to combine cultural sights with authentic Champagne tasting, especially those who appreciate learning about local traditions and craftsmanship. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a comprehensive day in the Champagne region without the hassle of planning each step.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

In-depth visits to historic Champagne cellars with tasting experiences.
Cultural highlights include the iconic Reims Cathedral, a marvel of Gothic architecture.
Vineyard views and explanations provide insight into the Champagne terroir.
Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
Tastings include premier Champagne houses and a boutique winery—great variety for enthusiasts.
Flexible booking options with cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

Discovering Champagne: An Authentic Experience from Reims

This tour is a fantastic way to dive into the world of Champagne without the stress of organizing multiple visits yourself. Starting from Reims, the journey begins with a visit to Ruinart, the oldest Champagne house,, famously nestled inside ancient Roman mines. Here, you’ll get a guided tour of 2 hours that reveals the secrets of Champagne production, from the historical underground caves to modern techniques. The highlight? Tasting some of Ruinart’s finest Champagne in the very cellars where it ages—an experience that feels both luxurious and grounded in history.

We loved the way the guide unpacks the story of Ruinart, making it accessible for all levels of wine lovers. One reviewer mentions, “We loved the story of the Roman mines and the way the guide brought the history to life.” The underground cellars, with their cool, echoing corridors and centuries-old stone, create a memorable setting for tasting.

After this, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute drive to Reims city center, where the tour continues with a visit to the Notre-Dame Cathedral—a true masterpiece of gothic architecture. The guided walk of about an hour offers not just architectural marvels but a glimpse into France’s regal history. The cathedral’s impressive stained glass and towering spires are stunning, and you’ll appreciate the chance to step into a place that has hosted countless royal ceremonies.

Following the cathedral, you’ll have time to explore Reims itself—its bustling streets, cafes, and historic charm. The guide will recommend excellent local restaurants for lunch, where you can pair Champagne with regional dishes, a treat for foodies. This is a perfect moment to relax, soak in the atmosphere, and reflect on the morning’s sights.

In the afternoon, the tour takes you into Champagne country’s lush vineyards, where you’ll stop at a boutique winery for a guided tasting. This intimate visit emphasizes traditional methods and local craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into the process that turns grapes into bubbly. You’ll taste three different Champagnes—a real highlight for enthusiasts eager to distinguish subtle differences.

The last stop is a 1.5-hour visit to a small Champagne producer, where you’ll learn about the intricacies of Champagne making, from grape to bottle, and enjoy more tastings. The small size of this producer means you’ll get a more personal experience, often with the chance to ask detailed questions about terroir, fermentation, and aging.

The tour wraps up with a 30-minute drive back to Reims, giving you time to discuss your favorite moments or plan your next stop.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers excellent value for those interested in a comprehensive Champagne experience. Included are hotel pick-up in Reims, private transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned van, tickets to Ruinart, and the visit and tasting at the boutique winery. The bottled water keeps you refreshed, and the private group setting ensures a more personalized experience.

However, lunch isn’t included, and while the guide will suggest great restaurants, you’ll need to plan for your meal. Also, train tickets from Paris aren’t part of this package, so if you’re arriving from the French capital, you’ll want to account for that separately.

The Itinerary: A Well-Curated Day

The tour’s schedule is tightly packed but well-structured, balancing historical sights, wine education, and scenic views:

• Starting point in Reims with a pickup—convenient if you’re staying nearby.
• Ruinart visit (2 hours), where you’ll explore Roman mines and taste their Champagne.
• City tour of Reims, including the Cathedral of Notre-Dame (1 hour), with plenty of opportunities for photos and cultural insights.
• Vineyard stops for explanations and pictures, highlighting the Champagne terroir.
• Boutique winery visit and tasting (1.5 hours) to learn about small-scale Champagne production.
• Final visit to a family-run Champagne producer for a more intimate tasting experience.
• The day concludes with a comfortable drive back to Reims.

This schedule allows you to see the main highlights without feeling rushed, though some may wish for more time at certain stops—especially if they’re keen on digging deeper into wine or architecture.

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Authenticity and Quality: What Travelers Say

Many reviews praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides, emphasizing how they bring the history and craft of Champagne to life. One reviewer noted, “The guide was very friendly and informative, making the experience feel personal and special.” The private setting means you’re not just a face in a crowd but can ask questions and engage at your own pace.

The tastings themselves are frequently highlighted, with visitors appreciating the excellent wine selection and delicious food pairings. The boutique winery’s intimate atmosphere often feels like a behind-the-scenes look, which many travelers value highly.

Some mention that the full day schedule can be intense, but most agree it’s a worthwhile way to see a broad slice of the Champagne region’s offerings. The combination of historic sites, scenic views, and tastings creates a well-rounded experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Champagne tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hands-on experience. If you’re fascinated by history, architecture, and wine, and prefer a relaxed, personalized atmosphere, this tour hits all the marks. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone serious about understanding both the cultural and culinary sides of Champagne.

Those with a taste for authenticity and a curiosity for the craft will find this especially rewarding. The inclusion of a boutique winery and the detailed stories behind each Champagne house add depth to the experience.

The Sum Up: A Perfect Blend of Culture, History, and Wine

This private tour from Reims offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances historic grandeur with engaging tastings. You’ll love exploring Ruinart’s ancient cellars, marveling at the Gothic beauty of Reims Cathedral, and tasting a variety of Champagnes, from luxury houses to small producers. The personalized attention and knowledgeable guides make this a memorable experience for those eager to deepen their appreciation of Champagne beyond just popping bottles.

While the schedule is somewhat packed, the comfort of private transportation and the variety of stops make every moment worthwhile. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine cultural exploration with a hands-on champagne experience—perfect for a special occasion or a true connoisseur’s day out.

If you’re looking for a balanced, authentic, and fun way to learn about Champagne’s world, this tour delivers both in spades.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. The guide will suggest good restaurants in Reims where you can enjoy regional dishes paired with Champagne.

Can I customize the pick-up location?
The pickup is generally at your hotel or accommodation in Reims. It’s best to coordinate directly with the provider if you have specific needs.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so you’ll be with just your group and guide, ensuring personalized attention.

How long is the visit to Ruinart?
The guided tour at Ruinart lasts about 2 hours, including the tasting of their Champagne.

Are the visits wheelchair accessible?
Most Champagne Houses are handicap friendly, but small producers may have stairs into their cellars. It’s advisable to inform the guide in advance about accessibility needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, some cash or a card for lunch, and your curiosity about Champagne!

This tour offers a fine blend of culture, history, and bubbly, perfect for those wanting more than just a tasting. It’s a well-rounded choice for a full day in the Champagne region—especially if you value quality, authenticity, and expert storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here: