Reims: Big and small wineries day tour

Reims: Big and Small Wineries Day Tour – A Complete Guide

When you think of the Champagne region in France, images of sparkling bottles, historic cellars, and lush vineyards probably come to mind. This 7-hour day tour offers a fantastic taste of all that, combining visits to major Champagne houses with intimate encounters with local producers in the Grand Est. For $796 per person, you get a well-rounded experience that balances history, craftsmanship, and scenic beauty—all led by a knowledgeable guide. Tour options include stops at Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Pommery, Ruinart, Mumm, or Taittinger, depending on availability, or a surprise selection.

What we love most about this tour is how it provides insider access: a walk through historic cellars located 30 meters underground at a prestigious house, and a personal visit to small, passionate winemakers. The gourmet three-course lunch paired with Champagne is a highlight, giving you a chance to savor local cuisine alongside your bubbly. Plus, the scenic drive through UNESCO-listed vineyards offers picture-perfect views of the rolling countryside.

A possible consideration is that this tour requires some walking and involves visiting historic sites, which could be a bit tiring for those with mobility issues. Also, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own taxis or Ubers. It’s ideal for wine lovers, history buffs, and those craving authentic Champagne experiences without the fuss of large group tours or overly commercial tasting rooms.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive day in Champagne, combining the grandeur of big-name houses with the charm of small-scale producers. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic views, excellent wine selection, and delicious food, all delivered in an intimate, private-group setting. If you’re eager to learn about traditional Champagne-making and enjoy authentic local flavors, this tour will check many boxes.

Key Points

• Balanced experience: Visits to both major Champagne houses and small producers.
• Authentic insights: Guided tours reveal the history and craftsmanship behind Champagne.
• Scenic beauty: Breathtaking views of vineyards in the UNESCO-listed region.
• Delicious meal: A three-course French lunch paired with Champagne adds culinary delight.
• Flexible options: Choice of famous Champagne houses or let the guide decide.
• No included transportation: Be prepared to arrange your own taxis or Ubers in Reims.

The Details of the Day

Starting Point and Duration

This tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with starting times subject to availability. Since no transportation is included, you’ll need to find your way to Reims independently—Ubers or taxis are readily available. The focus is on quality over quantity; you’ll spend enough time at each stop to really enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Big Names in Champagne

Your day begins with a visit to one of the iconic Champagne houses—choices include Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Pommery, Ruinart, Mumm, or Taittinger. The exact house depends on availability, but each offers its own story and style. A guide will walk you through their historic cellars, often located 30 meters beneath the surface. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of the vast scale of production that has made these brands famous globally.

The highlight at these grand houses is the guided tour, which typically covers the history of the brand, notable figures, and the cellaring process. You’ll walk through corridors of stone and brick, feeling the weight of tradition. Most tours include tastings—two different Champagne styles—so you can compare, for example, a brut versus a rosé or vintage.

Small Producers and Authentic Craftsmanship

After soaking up the grandeur, the afternoon shifts gears to focus on small, passionate winemakers. Here, you’ll get a more personal, hands-on look at the Champagne-making process, from pressing grapes to aging in cellars. These visits are especially valued by travelers wanting to understand the craft behind the bubbles. You might find that these artisanal producers offer more nuanced, earthy flavors compared to the big brands.

At each small winery, the focus is on triple tastings of their artisanal Champagnes—a chance to appreciate the diversity of flavors that the region produces. The passion of the winemakers often shines through in their descriptions and storytelling, making these moments memorable.

Scenic Drive and Vineyard Views

The tour culminates with a drive through the scenic Champagne countryside, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The rolling vineyards, historic estate houses, and lush landscapes are a feast for the eyes. This part of the tour allows you to absorb the essence of Champagne terroir and understand how geography influences flavor.

Gourmet Lunch and Tasting

A highlight of the day is the three-course French lunch, served with a Champagne aperitif. This meal provides a perfect culinary interlude, pairing traditional dishes with bubbles that enhance their flavors. Whether you prefer seafood, cheese, or hearty fare, the lunch adds a layer of indulgence to the experience.

Price and Value

While $796 per person might seem steep at first glance, it includes tastings at two Champagne houses, visits to small producers, a three-course meal, and expert guiding—making it a value-rich experience for serious Champagne enthusiasts. The tour’s small group or private setting ensures personalized attention and avoids overly commercialized tasting rooms.

Final Thoughts

This Reims Big and Small Wineries Tour offers a rich, authentic look into the Champagne region. It’s not just about tasting; it’s about understanding the heritage, craftsmanship, and landscape that produce one of the world’s most celebrated sparkling wines. The combination of historic grandeur and intimate artisan visits makes it ideal for those who want a well-rounded, memorable day.

Travelers who value scenic beauty and delicious wine will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s perfect for adventurous wine lovers eager to explore both famous houses and hidden gems without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a gourmet lunch adds a touch of indulgence, making it suitable for those seeking a luxurious yet authentic experience.

If you’re looking for a balanced, educational, and enjoyable day in the Champagne region, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to plan your transport to Reims, and prepare to savor a day filled with stunning views, exceptional wines, and stories behind every bottle.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include pick-up or drop-off. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from Reims, with taxis or Ubers being the most convenient options.

Which Champagne houses might I visit?
Depending on availability, you could visit Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Pommery, Ruinart, Mumm, or Taittinger. The specific house is chosen based on scheduling and capacity.

How long are the visits to the Champagne houses?
Each visit typically includes a guided tour of the cellar and two tastings, providing enough time to appreciate the process and sample different styles.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour generally follows a set itinerary, but you can leave notes when booking or discuss options with your guide if arranging privately.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers visits to two Champagne houses, tastings, the three-course lunch with Champagne, and the guided tour at the small producers.

Are there any added costs I should expect?
Transportation in Reims is not included, so plan for taxis or Uber. Additional drinks or souvenirs are at your discretion.

Is this tour suitable for wine novices?
Absolutely. The guides explain the process clearly, and tastings are designed to be enjoyable for all levels of experience.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking during cellar tours and around the vineyard regions, but it’s generally manageable for most visitors.

What makes this tour special?
The blend of prestigious house visits with intimate small producers, combined with scenic views and a gourmet meal, creates a well-rounded Champagne experience.

In short, this tour offers a thoughtful, engaging, and delicious way to discover the Champagne region. It balances history and craft, luxury and authenticity—ideal for anyone eager to understand what makes Champagne so extraordinary.

You can check availability for your dates here: