Ay is a sparkling jewel in France’s Champagne region, famous for its scenic vineyards and authentic wine experiences. Its prime location makes it an ideal spot for wine lovers who want more than just tasting; here, you can learn about the craft and culture behind Champagne production. We’re particularly fond of the Pressoria Champagne Museum for its interactive approach—perfect for families and curious travelers—and the small-group vineyard tours that combine scenic beauty with personalized insights. Whether you want to learn how Champagne is made or taste it in a cozy cellar, Ay offers a range of tours that cater to different interests and schedules.
If you’re after a fun, immersive experience, the Aï-Champagne: Pressoria Champagne Museum with Tasting is a must. For those who prefer a more in-depth, culinary approach, the Champagne Tasting Class and Lunch near Epernay offers a perfect blend of education and local cuisine. And if a quick, yet engaging visit is more your style, the Pressoria Entry Ticket provides a playful overview of Champagne making. Below, we break down each experience to help you find the perfect match.
1. Aï-Champagne: Pressoria Champagne Museum with Tasting
This Pressoria Museum experience is a standout because of its interactive, family-friendly approach. For just $21 per person, you get a full day of sensory discovery in the former pressing center of Maison Pommery, located in beautiful Ay. The museum aims to excite all five senses by explaining how Champagne is produced—from geology and climate to harvest and effervescence. You’ll navigate hands-on exhibits that make learning about Champagne fun for all ages.
What sets this tour apart is its immersive, playful format. You’ll learn to appreciate the complexity of Champagne and participate in tastings of two local varieties. Plus, the walk through the lush vineyards of Ay- Champagne offers a peaceful pause amid your explorations. With over 216 reviews rating it 4.7/5, visitors find it well worth the modest cost, especially as an introduction to Champagne’s artistry.
Bottom line: If you want a lively, sensory-rich overview of Champagne making that’s suitable for families and curious adults alike, this museum is hard to beat. It’s a great way to kick off your visit and get inspired.
2. Champagne Tasting Class and Lunch near Epernay
At number 2, this Champagne tasting and lunch experience offers a thoroughly cultural and culinary look at Champagne. Starting at Le Clos Corbier in Mareuil-sur-Ay, the tour includes a visit to traditional cellar caves, a guided, expert-led tasting class, and a delicious three-course French lunch. It’s priced at $102.17 and lasts about three hours, making it a more immersive half-day option.
The highlight is the small-group setting—limited to twelve people—which fosters more personal interaction. The guided class features a blind tasting of three different Champagnes, accompanied by local snacks, helping you understand aromas, structure, and nuances. The meal that follows emphasizes seasonal, local ingredients, pairing beautifully with the wines. Visitors consistently praise the tour for its informative content and intimate atmosphere, with a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 45 reviews. One reviewer called it the trip’s highlight, emphasizing how well-organized and fun it was.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in learning hands-on about Champagne production while enjoying a gourmet meal, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience for wine aficionados and food lovers alike.
3. Entrance Ticket to Pressoria in the Heart of Champagne with Tasting
Looking for a shorter, yet engaging visit? At number 3, the Pressoria entrance ticket offers a 1 to 2-hour interactive journey into Champagne making. The focus here is on sensory exploration—perfect for travelers who want a taste of the region without committing to a full-day tour.
Located in the UNESCO-listed hillsides of Ay, Pressoria’s immersive courses guide you through the geology, climate, and harvesting processes, all designed to awaken your senses. The highlight is the visual and tactile experience of learning about effervescence, vineyard diversity, and the Champagne production process. The visit culminates in a tasting of two Champagnes or grape juices, with breathtaking vineyard views. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating and reviews emphasizing the fun, interactive, and educational nature of the experience, it’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a quick but rich introduction.
Bottom line: This ticket provides a compact, sensory-centered taste of Champagne, perfect for those on a tight schedule or seeking a playful, educational outing.
4. Afternoon Champagne Visit & Tasting Class near Epernay
For a more relaxed, afternoon option, the Champagne tasting and class at Le Clos Corbier is perfect. Priced at $49.90 and lasting about 1.5 hours, this small-group experience offers a more intimate look at Champagne production. You’ll visit a family-run Champagne house, learn about the terroir of Montagne de Reims, then taste three different Champagnes paired with light snacks.
Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to stroll through the vineyard during the guided tour. Many reviewers mention how much they learned about the region’s soil and production techniques, which enhances the tasting experience. The guide’s enthusiasm and the small size (max eight people) make the experience feel exclusive.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a shorter, yet educational tasting combined with a vineyard walk, this tour offers good value and access to a traditional Champagne house.
5. Guided Tour of the Ay Vineyard and Champagne Tasting
Finally, for those who want an intimate, scenic experience, the Ay vineyard guided tour is an excellent choice. This 2-hour eco-guided tour in an electric vehicle takes you through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed vineyards of Ay. Your host, a local winegrower, combines storytelling with a personal showcase of his champagnes.
What makes this tour special is the personal connection—you’re not just observing but engaging directly with a producer. Visitors describe the host as passionate and knowledgeable, sharing insights that deepen the tasting experience. The scenery is stunning, and the tasting in the heart of the vines makes Champagne’s essence come alive. With only 3 reviews rated 5.0, you’ll get a more exclusive, authentic perspective of the region.
Bottom line: This private, scenic vineyard walk with tasting is ideal if you want a relaxed, personalized look at Champagne production, away from crowded wineries.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Ay
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. Want a quick, sensory overview? The Pressoria Museum entry offers a lively intro. After a more in-depth experience? The Champagne class and lunch combines education with a gourmet meal, perfect for enthusiasts.
If your schedule is tight but you crave a taste of vineyard scenery, the guided vineyard tour provides a scenic, intimate experience. For families or those new to Champagne, the Pressoria Museum is ideal—interactive and fun.
Book early during peak times like summer or holiday seasons, especially for small-group tours, to secure your spot. Think about what most excites you—whether it’s behind-the-scenes production, tasting in a vineyard, or enjoying local cuisine—and pick accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Ay offers a wonderful variety of Champagne-themed tours, from interactive museums to intimate tastings in the vineyards. If you’re looking for a family-friendly, sensory experience, the Pressoria Museum is a top choice. For those wanting to combine learning and dining, the Champagne class with lunch delivers an unforgettable taste of the region. And if personalized, scenic exploration appeals, the guided vineyard tour will leave you with lasting memories.
No matter which experience you choose, these tours promise a deeper appreciation of Champagne’s craftsmanship and landscape. To ensure your spot, especially during busy seasons, booking early is always wise. Cheers to discovering the true spirit of Champagne in Ay!