Private tour: Full Day Veuve Clicquot to Reims or Epernay region

A full-day adventure through the Champagne region — visiting iconic maisons like Veuve Clicquot, exploring charming villages, and enjoying a superb French lunch — for around $830 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides, this private tour offers a personalized experience with a maximum of eight guests, ensuring plenty of opportunities for questions and close-up tastings. For those who adore bubbly and want to understand more about its craft, this trip hits all the right notes.

Two particular highlights keep us coming back: first, the insider access to Veuve Clicquot’s legendary underground cellars—you really get a sense of the history and craftsmanship—and second, the chance to wander the picturesque village of Hautvillers, famous as Dom Perignon’s resting place and a lovely spot to soak in local vineyard views. The included lunch—a three-course meal paired with Champagne—adds a satisfying pause in the day’s excitement.

One consideration? The tour’s price might seem steep, but when you consider the tastings, transportation, and personalized attention, it offers value for lovers of high-quality Champagne. However, it’s not ideal for children under 10 or for travelers with dietary restrictions unless specified in advance.

This experience suits anyone with a serious interest in Champagne—whether you’re a dedicated connoisseur wanting to explore behind the scenes or a first-timer eager to learn about the region’s famous sparkling wines. Given the glowing reviews, it’s clear that guided expertise and authentic visits make this a memorable day for those who appreciate well-curated, intimate experiences.

Key Points

• Personalized private experience with a maximum of 8 guests ensures an intimate, flexible day.
• Expert guides like Jérôme and Chloe receive high praise for their knowledge and engaging style.
• Visits to both large and smaller Champagne houses provide a well-rounded taste of the region’s diversity.
• Stunning scenery and authentic villages like Hautvillers enhance the cultural richness.
• Delicious French lunch paired with Champagne adds a satisfying culinary dimension.
• Full-day itinerary balances history, tastings, regional charm, and relaxation.

Exploring the Champagne Region: A Deep Dive

The Private Tour Experience and What Sets It Apart

This full-day tour offers a rare chance to sip some of the world’s most prestigious Champagne in an exclusive setting. Starting at Veuve Clicquot, one of Champagne’s most storied houses, you’ll get a close look at their underground cellars—think of it as stepping into a world of historic bottles and centuries-old aging chambers. The tour’s length of 1 hour 30 minutes means plenty of time to learn about Veuve Clicquot’s remarkable history and winemaking process, paired with tastings of nine different Champagne wines.

What makes this experience special is how it balances the grandeur of a major house with the intimacy of a private tour. The maximum of eight guests allows guides to tailor the day, answer questions, and create a more personal connection—something larger group tours often lack. Several reviewers mentioned how helpful and knowledgeable their guides, like Jérôme and Chloe, made the day, making the experience both educational and fun.

The Scenic Drive and Village Charm

After the grandeur of Veuve Clicquot, the tour takes you along the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay. This famous stretch features some of the most historic and luxurious champagne houses in the world. A quick 10-minute walk allows you to soak in the elegance of this iconic street, with its impressive facades and storied reputation.

Next, the tour ventures into Hautvillers, a picture-perfect village that oozes French charm. Known as Dom Perignon’s final resting place, this village offers sweeping vineyard views and a peaceful atmosphere. The 1-hour visit here includes wandering the narrow streets and learning about the region’s terroir—how soil, climate, and tradition influence Champagne. Reviewers raved about how this stop adds depth and authenticity, with many saying it’s a highlight for lovers of regional culture and history.

The Flavorful French Lunch

A standout feature of the tour is the 2.5-hour lunch, where you’ll enjoy a three-course meal in a beautiful setting, paired with Champagne wines. The lunch is described as typically French, with reviewers mentioning the “quiche to die for” and praises for the carefully curated pairing of wines. This is not just a break but an integral part of the experience, allowing you to savor local cuisine while reflecting on the morning’s tastings.

Afternoon Tasting and Smaller Houses

Post-lunch, the tour continues with visits to smaller Champagne producers, giving you a taste of the region’s diversity. Many reviewers appreciated being taken to less commercialized, family-run vineyards, which often offer a more authentic, handcrafted experience. The 90-minute tasting at these wineries showcases several different bottles, emphasizing the variety and craftsmanship that smaller houses excel at. Several guests mentioned how this personalized touch made the day more memorable, with tastings that ranged from classic to innovative styles.

The Value of Guided Expertise

Throughout the day, guides like Chloe, Xavier, and Thomas are praised for their engaging storytelling, deep knowledge, and friendly approach. They not only share technical details but also sprinkle in anecdotes and fun aromatic exercises, making the tour lively and approachable. We loved the way they explained the Champagne-making process in a clear, non-boring way, making complex details accessible.

Transport and Logistics

The entire day is comfortably handled via an air-conditioned minivan, ensuring a smooth ride between stops. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Reims is included, saving the hassle of navigating public transport or parking. The timing—starting at 9:00 am and returning later in the afternoon—allows plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for serious wine lovers and those eager for an insider’s look at Champagne. It’s perfect if you want a personalized experience, well-managed logistics, and meaningful tastings. The small group size enhances interaction with guides and hosts, making it a more authentic journey. It’s less suitable for children under 10 or travelers with specific dietary needs unless arrangements are made in advance.

Final Thoughts

This private Champagne tour offers a wonderfully balanced mix of history, regional charm, and wine expertise. You’ll enjoy luxurious tastings at both world-famous brands and smaller producers, all wrapped in a scenic, culturally rich setting. The included lunch elevates the day from just tasting to experiencing the full regional flavor.

For couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a personalized, insightful day in Champagne, this tour delivers on all fronts. The high praise from past guests underscores the quality of guides, the comfort of private transportation, and the authentic nature of visits. It’s a solid choice if you value expert guidance, small-group intimacy, and a taste of regional life.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The full-day experience lasts about 9 hours, beginning at 9:00 am and ending back at your hotel or the meeting point later in the afternoon.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Reims are part of the package, along with private air-conditioned transportation for the day.

What is the maximum group size?
This is a private tour for up to 8 guests, ensuring a more relaxed, tailored experience.

Does the tour include tastings?
Absolutely. You’ll enjoy 9 Champagne tastings at different locations, including Veuve Clicquot, smaller wineries, and regional producers.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a three-course French lunch paired with Champagne wines is part of the itinerary.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
It’s best to advise the tour provider when booking if you have specific dietary needs, as some reviewers mentioned thoughtful accommodations.

In essence, this private Champagne tour is built for those who want to go beyond the tourist trail, exploring the authentic sights and flavors of the region with expert guides and intimate settings. It’s a memorable way to celebrate the art of Champagne, with enough flexibility and insight to satisfy even seasoned connoisseurs.