Day tour Tasting at Moët & Chandon and 2 Big Houses in Epernay

Discover Champagne in Épernay: A Day of Tasting and Tour at Three Big Houses

If you’re craving an authentic taste of France’s most famous sparkling wine, this day tour in Épernay offers a well-rounded experience, visiting three renowned Champagne houses. For around six to seven hours, you’ll explore historic cellars, learn about the Champagne-making process, enjoy tastings at each house, and savor a classic French 3-course lunch complete with Champagne. Guided by knowledgeable staff, the tour costs about $580 per person, and with bookings made on average 32 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for champagne lovers planning ahead.

What we really love about this experience? First, the chance to taste seven different glasses of Champagne across three houses, each with its own character and style. Second, the unique cellar train ride that offers a fun, intimate way to see the vast underground storage areas, with barrels of hundreds of thousands of bottles. The only potential downside? Since the tour is self-guided and doesn’t include private transportation, you’ll walk around Épernay’s compact area—perfect for those comfy with a bit of walking and exploring on your own.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers eager to understand Champagne’s craftsmanship, those who enjoy good food paired with bubbly, and anyone who loves authentic, behind-the-scenes looks into major Champagne producers. It’s especially recommended if you appreciate guided tastings and want a structured, memorable day without the fuss of private guides or transportation logistics.

Key Points

• Multiple House Visits: Taste Champagne at three distinct houses, including the prestigious Moët & Chandon.
• Authentic French Meal: Enjoy a three-course lunch with a Champagne aperitif—perfect pairing for the tasting experience.
• Fun Cellar Tour: Ride a miniature train through vast underground cellars, seeing barrels and production machinery.
• Expert Guidance: Learn from knowledgeable staff about Champagne production, history, and tasting techniques.
• Close to Town: The walking distance between houses is manageable, making it easy to explore without transportation.
• Limited Group Size: Small group of up to 8 travelers ensures a more intimate, personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Champagne Experience in Épernay

When you first arrive at Moët et Chandon, one of the most iconic Champagne maisons, you gain an immediate sense of grandeur. The tour begins with a walk through the cellars, where miles of tunnels house countless bottles aging to perfection. The guides—like Stéphane or others—are praised for their knowledgeable explanations of Champagne history, from the days of the founder to the modern innovations. As Thomas mentions in his review, “Each house had their own guide, and all we had to do was follow along,” highlighting how well-organized and easy-to-understand the process was.

During the tutored tasting with a sommelier, you’ll get to appreciate the subtle aromas, bubbles, and flavors that distinguish each Champagne. The guided tasting helps you grasp how to identify different notes and textures, turning a simple sip into a more meaningful experience. We loved the way the sommelier explains how to enjoy Champagne fully—this isn’t just about drinking but appreciating craftsmanship.

Next, the tour moves to Champagne de Castellane, famous for its tower—the tallest of Épernay’s Champagne houses. Climbing to the top yields a panoramic view of the vineyards and town, making it a highlight for photo enthusiasts. Here, you’ll learn about their production process and see how Champagne is made on a large scale. Enjoy another double tasting of their bubbly, which offers a different flavor profile from Moët, adding variety to your day.

The third house takes a playful turn with a miniature train ride through the cellars, transporting you through tunnels filled with hundreds of thousands of bottles—specifically, a barrel holding 200,000 bottles. This fun ride is often highlighted in reviews for its quirky charm. Afterward, you’ll taste another round of Champagne, closing out your tasting tour with a final indulgence.

Throughout your day, the 7 glasses of Champagne provide ample opportunity to compare styles, from brut to more delicate varieties. The 3-course French lunch with Champagne accentuates the experience, allowing you to savor the bubbles alongside traditional dishes—something many travelers find adds a special touch to the day.

Practical Details and What It Means for You

The tour is designed to be self-guided, with a detailed itinerary shared via WhatsApp, making it flexible and easy to follow. Since no private guide or transportation is included, you’ll walk between the houses, which are conveniently located within about 500 meters of each other. That makes the experience accessible for most visitors, but it’s good to be prepared for some light walking.

The price point of $581.06 includes not only the tastings and lunch but also the behind-the-scenes visits and fun cellar train ride. Think of it as a comprehensive introduction to Champagne—each stop adds a layer of understanding and enjoyment. From the small group size to the intimate tastings, this experience often receives top ratings—14 reviews average a perfect 5-star score.

One reviewer, Thomas, said, “The tour was well organized and easy to follow,” emphasizing how straightforward and enjoyable the experience was, even without a private guide. The reviews consistently mention knowledgeable guides and the fun of exploring the cellars, making it clear that this tour balances education with entertainment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a structured, quality Champagne experience without the hassle of planning transportation or private guides. It’s perfect if you’re interested in learning about Champagne’s history, production, and tasting in a relaxed setting. Food lovers will also appreciate the French lunch paired with Champagne, elevating the tasting to a full-day culinary experience.

If you’re a bubbly enthusiast, the seven tastings across different producers give you a thorough sampling, helping you discover your favorites. Families or couples comfortable with a moderate amount of walking will find this day both manageable and rewarding, especially given the small group size and engaging activities like the train ride.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those fascinated by Champagne and eager to see behind the scenes of some of the most famous houses, this tour offers value and memorable moments. You’ll appreciate the chance to compare different brands, understand the Champagne-making process, and enjoy a delicious meal—all in the charming setting of Épernay. The small group size and engaging guides make this a cozy, educational day, suitable for curious travelers who want more than just a tasting.

If your goal is to really get a sense of the craftsmanship and heritage of Champagne, especially with visits to Moët & Chandon and de Castellane, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s best for those who value authentic experiences, expert guidance, and a fun cellar adventure. Just be ready for some walking, and you’ll come away with plenty of bubbly memories.

FAQ

How many Champagne tastings are included?
You will enjoy seven glasses of Champagne throughout the day, with tastings at each of the three houses.

Is transportation provided between the houses?
No, transportation isn’t included. The houses are within 500 meters of each other, so you’ll walk between them, making it easy and convenient.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am from Moët et Chandon and concluding back at the same meeting point.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a three-course French lunch with a Champagne aperitif is part of the tour, complementing the tastings.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is primarily for adults, children might enjoy the train ride in the cellars and the overall experience of exploring Champagne houses. Check with the provider for age restrictions.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This tour is non-refundable, and changes are not permitted. Be sure of your plans before booking.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the cellar visits and walking between houses. An umbrella might be useful during inclement weather as the tour involves outdoor elements.

Is the tour guided or self-guided?
It’s self-guided with detailed instructions shared via WhatsApp. Each house has its own staff guiding you through their facilities.

Enjoy your trip to Épernay—and may your glass always be half full!