Private Full Day Tour – Visit of 3 Champagne Growers from Reims.

A Closer Look at the Private Full Day Champagne Tour from Reims

This private full-day tour offers a thoughtful journey through the Champagne region, visiting three small, family-run vineyards outside Reims. Priced at around $453 per person and lasting about 8 hours, it promises an immersion into both the production process and the charming villages of Épernay and Hautvillers. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized experience away from the crowds and big-name houses.

What we really appreciate are the small-group intimacy and the focus on family wineries — this isn’t about the glamorous, commercial Champagne houses but about meeting the passionate producers behind the bubbles. Plus, the delicious French lunch with champagne included makes it a full, satisfying day.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is limited to a maximum of 8 people, so it might fill up quickly — on average, travelers book this about 85 days in advance. Also, it’s a full-day experience, so it suits those comfortable with a packed schedule and some walking.

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone eager to learn about Champagne’s craftsmanship firsthand. If you enjoy small, authentic wineries and personalized attention, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip to France’s Champagne region.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 8 people for personalized attention.
• Visit to three family-run Champagne producers outside Reims for a genuine, behind-the-scenes look.
• Tastings of 10 Champagnes throughout the day, including at each winery.
• Includes a traditional French lunch with Champagne, water, coffee, and dessert.
• Expert guides who are extremely knowledgeable and passionate.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in Reims and Épernay.

Exploring the Day’s Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Hautvillers and the Abbey of Saint-Pierre

The tour kicks off around 9:30 am, with pickup in Reims. The first stop is the charming village of Hautvillers, home to the Abbaye Saint-Pierre, where Dom Pérignon once perfected the Champagne method. We loved the way our guide explained Dom Pérignon’s role, walking us through the church where he’s buried and offering a glimpse into his scientific approach to wine-making. It’s a brief 15-minute visit, but packed with significance, making it a meaningful introduction to Champagne’s heritage.

Visiting the First Family Winery

Next, we head to our first small, family-owned Champagne house. This part of the tour is especially valued — visiting producers who aren’t big brands but artisans passionate about their craft. At each winery, there’s a short tour of the cellar, followed by a tasting of three different Champagnes. The reviews rave about the guides’ ability to explain the manufacturing process clearly, helping us understand the nuances between different styles, from oak barrel champagnes to more traditional methods.

Scenic Drive and a Scenic Stop in the Vineyards

After the first tasting, the tour takes us through the beautiful vineyards along Avenue de Champagne in Épernay. Driving down this famous street offers a view of the champagne-producing landscape, with lush rows of vines framing picturesque vistas. Travelers appreciated the scenic drive and the chance to see where the bubbles are born.

Lunch at a Bistronomic Restaurant

Around midday, we stop for a three-course French lunch at a cozy restaurant called Why Not. The meal includes starter, main course, and dessert, paired with a glass of Champagne, plus coffee and water. Several reviews highlight this as one of the best meals experienced in France — a genuine highlight for many.

Visiting the Second & Third Growers

Post-lunch, we visit two more small Champagne producers. These visits are shorter but equally personal, with cellar tours and tastings of three Champagnes each. Guests often mention how well the guides tailor explanations, helping us recognize flavors and styles. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was fabulous, very knowledgeable and very helpful answering all questions,” which is a common sentiment.

Ending Back in Reims

The tour wraps up around 6 pm back at the starting point. Throughout the day, guides share stories, answer questions, and introduce us to 10 different Champagnes — enough to deepen our understanding and appreciation for this sparkling wine.

The Value of This Tour

When analyzing the cost of $452.82 per person, it’s easy to see the value. It includes all tastings, visits, lunch, transportation, and hotel pickup/drop-off in Reims or Épernay. The small-group format enhances the experience, ensuring you get personalized attention and a relaxed pace. Visiting small family wineries offers a much more intimate look at Champagne production, contrasting sharply with the grandeur of the big houses.

Guests frequently mention the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Several reviews highlight guides like Anne and Christophe as being extremely knowledgeable, patient, and passionate, making the learning process both fun and informative. The tasting sessions are often described as delicious, with some reviewers mentioning they purchased bottles directly from the producers, appreciating the ability to bring home authentic, high-quality Champagne.

One of the biggest advantages is the focus on authentic, family-run wineries. Unlike larger Champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot, these producers offer a more genuine, personal experience, often involving direct conversations with the owners, which many find more rewarding and memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences over glitz, especially those interested in wine production and small-scale craftsmanship. It’s ideal if you want to avoid large tourist crowds and prefer a more relaxed, educational atmosphere. The length of the day and the tasting focus make it perfect for those who don’t mind a full schedule, but who want to maximize their understanding and appreciation of Champagne.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour operates only in English, making it accessible for most travelers. It requires a minimum of two participants and is often booked about three months in advance, reflecting its popularity. Pickup is available in Reims and Épernay, but not in Paris — so if you’re staying in the capital, you’ll need to arrange transport to Reims.

The transportation is a Mercedes Minivan, fully equipped with Air Conditioning, ensuring comfort on the journey. The itinerary is flexible enough that guides can adapt slightly based on the group’s interests, but you’ll generally visit three wineries, a village, and enjoy a scenic drive.

Weather can influence the experience since it’s mostly outdoors and in vineyards, so check the forecast and dress accordingly. If weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

FAQ

Do I need to know anything about Champagne beforehand?
Not at all. The guides are very knowledgeable and explain everything clearly. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll learn something new.

Are the tastings suitable for all wine lovers?
Yes. The tastings include 10 Champagnes, so you’ll experience a range of styles and flavors, from crisp brut to richer oak-aged varieties.

Can I buy bottles directly from the wineries?
While not explicitly mentioned, several reviews mention purchasing bottles, which can often be shipped home, making packing easier.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Lunch is a set menu at the restaurant, with options for fish and blood sausage. If you have special dietary needs, it’s worth contacting the provider in advance.

How long are the winery visits?
Each winery usually involves a short cellar visit and a tasting of three Champagnes. The total time at each varies but is enough for an in-depth tasting experience.

What is included in the price?
All winery visits, tastings, lunch, transportation, and pickup/drop-off are included. No hidden fees.

Can I extend my Champagne experience?
The tour is focused on small producers outside Reims; for visits to famous houses like Moët & Chandon, contact the provider for options.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While primarily aimed at adults interested in Champagne, older teenagers might enjoy the experience. The itinerary is about wine and scenery, not activities for children.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. Weather-related cancellations are also handled with full refunds or rescheduling.

Final Thoughts

This private Champagne tour strikes a wonderful balance between personalized attention, authentic winery visits, and a delicious meal. It’s particularly suited for those who want to step off the beaten path and meet the passionate producers behind the bubbles. The small-group format fosters a relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and every detail is shared.

If your goal is to understand how real Champagne is made, sample a broad variety, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Champagne region, this tour offers a thoughtful and well-organized experience. The knowledgeable guides and intimate visits make it a memorable highlight for any wine lover.

For travelers seeking a deeper connection with Champagne beyond the big-name maisons, this tour provides a genuine, heartfelt insight into both the region’s history and its future. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to make their Champagne trip personal, authentic, and delicious.