GRAND VINTAGE Taittinger Veuve Clicquot Cellars & Tastings

Traveling through the lush vineyards and historic cellars of the Champagne region isn’t just about tasting bubbles — it’s about feeling the history and craftsmanship that go into every bottle. This 11-hour private tour from Paris, offered by Clewel Travel, takes you into the cellars of Taittinger and Veuve Clicquot, two of the most renowned Champagne Houses, with guided visits, tastings, and a scenic drive through the iconic landscapes. For a price of around $802 per person, it’s an investment in authentic experiences, personalized service, and a behind-the-scenes look at the Champagne world.

What we particularly love about this tour is its small-group feel, with a maximum of 14 people, which makes for an intimate experience and more personalized attention. The luxury Mercedes transportation enhances comfort — whether you prefer a sleek E220 or a spacious minivan. Plus, hotel pickup from Paris saves you the hassle of logistics. On the flip side, the full day does mean a long schedule, so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a bit of a pace and are eager to indulge in Champagne culture.

If you’re after a blend of luxury, education, and authentic Champagne tasting with knowledgeable guides, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s perfect for lovers of fine wine, history buffs, or anyone looking to elevate their day trip out of Paris. The only thing to keep in mind is that children under 6 and wheelchair users might find the itinerary less accessible, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Private, Guided Experience in prestigious Champagne Houses with small-group intimacy
• Luxury Transport in Mercedes E220 or Minivan ensures comfort and convenience
• Tastings of Premium Champagne including options like Vintage, Rosé, and Magnum bottles
• Visit to Reims Cathedral offers cultural insight and a chance to explore France’s royal history
• Flexible Pricing Options cater to different levels of Champagne connoisseurship
• All-Inclusive Fees and Pickup simplify logistics, with water provided for refreshment

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Champagne Day Trip from Paris

When we first read about this tour, what caught our eye was the promise of guided cellar visits to two legendary Champagne Houses—Taittinger and Veuve Clicquot. Unlike larger, impersonal group excursions, this private experience prioritizes personalized attention and in-depth insights. The day begins early, with a hotel pickup in Paris around 7:30 AM, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free day. The two-hour drive through the picturesque Champagne landscapes is a highlight in itself — expect rolling vineyards, quaint villages, and fields that seem to glow with promise.

The Visit to Taittinger

Arriving at Taittinger around 10:00 AM, we loved the “Linstant Gourmet” experience, which is a guided tour of the cellars limited to 14 people — perfect for a more intimate look at the art of Champagne-making. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours and includes tastings of two distinct Champagnes: Prestige Rosé and Millésimé. The guide, who we’ll assume is knowledgeable and engaging, walks you through the history of Taittinger, while explaining the unique methods that contribute to their Champagne’s finesse.

The highlight here is not just the tasting but the chance to see these historic cellars, some dating back centuries. The bubbles are delightful, and the tasting of Prestige Rosé offers a fruity twist, while Millésimé showcases the richness of vintage champagne.

Visiting Reims Cathedral

Next, just a quick 10-minute drive, is the self-guided visit to Reims Cathedral — a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning Gothic architecture and the fact that most French kings were crowned here. It’s a short but enriching stop to appreciate the religious and political history woven into this majestic space. While you’re free to explore at your own pace, it’s worth taking a moment to soak in the grandeur and perhaps snap a few photos of the intricate façade.

Lunch Break in Reims

The tour offers flexibility for lunch: you can explore on your own, or opt for a restaurant reservation through the tour provider. This is a great chance to sample local Charcuterie, regional cheeses, or just enjoy a leisurely meal in the heart of Reims. It’s a good opportunity to relax and digest the morning’s bubbles before heading to Veuve Clicquot.

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The Veuve Clicquot Cellars and Tastings

In the afternoon, around 2:00 PM, you’ll visit Veuve Clicquot, a historic Champagne House dating back to 1772, known for its bold yellow label and pioneering spirit. The guided tour of their cellars is highly praised, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Champagne production process and the history of Madame Clicquot, whose innovations helped shape the industry.

Here, the tour options vary based on your chosen level — from the “Une Seule Qualité” (advanced) tasting of four cuvées, including Vintage 2015 and Rosé 2015, to the VIP “L’art du vieillissement” experience, which compares four different vintage and aged Champagnes, some in Magnum bottles. These tastings are carefully curated to showcase the diversity and complexity of Veuve Clicquot’s offerings.

What really sets this apart is the depth of tasting options, especially at the VIP level, offering a chance to compare aged vintages and special cellar selections. Many reviewers have appreciated the knowledgeable guides who explain the nuances of each cuvée, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Returning to Paris

After the visit, around 4:30 PM, you’ll hop back into your Mercedes for the roughly 2.5-hour ride back to Paris, arriving around 6:30 PM. The return trip is a relaxing way to reflect on the day, with scenic views and perhaps some last sips of Champagne in your mind.

Transportation & Logistics

The luxury Mercedes transport makes a significant difference — it ensures a smooth, private journey with ample space for comfort, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group. The hotel pickup means you avoid the hassle of finding meeting points, which is especially valuable if you’re staying in central Paris.

Timing-wise, the start at 7:30 AM and return around 6:30 PM makes this a full, rich day but not an overwhelming one. The schedule is tight but manageable for those who want a comprehensive experience without multiple days out.

The Value of this Champagne Tour

At $802 per person, this experience isn’t cheap, but it’s priced to reflect the personalized attention, luxury transport, and access to world-famous Champagne houses. For wine lovers or those curious about the craftsmanship behind the bubbles, it’s a memorable way to deepen your appreciation. The guided cellar tours, especially with expert guides, offer insights that you simply won’t get from just visiting a Champagne store or doing a self-guided tasting.

The tiered tasting options, including the VIP, add a layer of luxury and exclusivity for enthusiasts eager to sample rare vintages and aged Champagnes. The small group setting ensures a more interactive and engaging experience, making it more than just a touristy stop.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for luxury travelers who want a convenient, all-inclusive day out of Paris, especially those with a passion for Champagne or wine in general. It’s also suited for history and culture enthusiasts interested in the story of France’s royal and industrial heritage. Because the tour is private, it’s perfect for couples, small groups, or special occasions.

However, if you’re traveling with children under 6 or need full wheelchair accessibility, this might not be the best fit, as the itinerary involves some walking and historic sites without specific accommodations.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to discover the secrets behind France’s most celebrated bubbles, this tour offers a blend of luxury, education, and authentic craftsmanship. The guided visits make the complex process of Champagne-making understandable and enjoyable, while the private transport adds a layer of comfort and convenience.

The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides stand out, ensuring you get personalized insights and meaningful tastings. While the price might seem high, it’s a well-rounded experience that combines cultural highlights, premium Champagne, and scenic drives — all in one day.

This tour suits travelers who value quality over quantity, seek a glamorous yet authentic experience, and want to learn about Champagne’s history and production firsthand. It’s a perfect way to turn a day in Paris into a memorable adventure into France’s bubbly heritage.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for someone who doesn’t drink alcohol?
Since the main focus is on Champagne tastings, it’s best suited for those who enjoy sparkling wine. If you don’t drink alcohol, you might find the experience less appealing, but you could still enjoy the cultural and scenic parts like the cathedral and landscape.

How long is the drive from Paris to Champagne?
The drive takes about 2 hours each way, covering roughly 140 km. The scenic route with views of vineyards makes the journey enjoyable.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. There’s a lunch break in Reims where you can choose your own dining spot or have a reservation arranged.

What are the options for Champagne tastings?
You can select from Advanced (4 cuvées), Premium (comparison of Brut in Magnum and La Grande Dame 2015), or VIP (comparative tasting of aged and rare Champagnes).

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for spontaneous planning.

Is hotel pickup available?
Absolutely, pickup from your Paris hotel is included, making the logistics seamless.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and cellar visits.

Are children allowed on this tour?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 years due to the nature of the activities and the environment.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not designed for wheelchair users, considering the historic sites and walking involved.

Can I pay now or later?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which is great if you want to keep your plans flexible.

This Grand Vintage Taittinger Veuve Clicquot Cellars & Tastings tour offers a comprehensive, luxurious, and educational day designed for lovers of Champagne and those eager to understand what makes this sparkling wine so special. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious traveler, it’s a chance to enjoy France’s bubbly heritage in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: