Ruinart champagne special tour

A Closer Look at the Ruinart Champagne Special Tour

If you’re heading to Reims and want to indulge in a truly authentic champagne experience, the Ruinart Champagne Special Tour offers a memorable journey into the world’s oldest champagne house. For roughly $510 per person, this four-hour adventure takes you behind the scenes of Maison Ruinart, with the added convenience of hotel pickup from Reims or Épernay. What’s more, it’s a private experience—meaning you won’t be sharing your expert-guided tour with strangers—and includes tastings of two of Ruinart’s distinguished champagnes.

We particularly love the intimate nature of this tour, which allows for personalized interaction with knowledgeable guides. The chance to explore the historic cellars—some of the oldest and most atmospheric in the region—stands out as a highlight. Plus, the tour’s inclusion of a visit to the Vineyards and villages offers a well-rounded picture of Champagne’s landscape and tradition.

One potential consideration is the cost—at over five hundred dollars per person, it’s a premium experience. However, for those passionate about champagne, wine connoisseurs, or travelers eager for a deep-dive into Reims’ storied viticulture, the value is undeniable. This tour suits visitors who want an exclusive, detailed look at Champagne production, combined with an appreciation for the beautiful surroundings and the art of champagne making.

Key Points

• Exclusive, private tour ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience
• Includes transportation from Reims or Épernay, saving logistics and hassle
• Explores historic cellars with atmospheric, centuries-old architecture
• Tastings of two Ruinart champagnes provide a tasting of premium quality
• Vineyards and villages visit adds context to the champagne’s origins
• Suitable for wine enthusiasts and culture lovers seeking depth and authenticity

In-Depth Review of the Ruinart Champagne Special Tour

What the Experience Includes

For those who want to see the heart of Champagne’s legendary production, this tour covers both the cellars of Maison Ruinart and the surrounding vineyards and villages. It’s a comprehensive package, especially for travelers who value expert insights, authentic history, and top-quality tastings.

Pickup and Transportation

From the moment we booked, the process was straightforward—the tour offers hotel pickup from Reims or Épernay, which is a real plus. The transportation is comfortable and timed so you can relax without worrying about navigating unfamiliar roads or public transit. This convenience means you’ll start the day feeling more at ease and ready to focus on what matters: the champagne and scenery.

Maison Ruinart Cellars — The Main Attraction

The highlight is undoubtedly the full visit to the cellars of the oldest champagne house. These ancient tunnels, carved into chalk, provide a cool, dark, and atmospheric setting where champagne matures for years. The guide, often someone like Stephane or Tiane based on reviews, shares in-depth knowledge about the production process and the history of Ruinart—which dates back to 1729.

Travelers have raved about the guides’ expertise, with one reviewer noting that Tiane and Lisa “shared their knowledge and insights about the champagne region and production history,” exceeding expectations. Their commentary makes the visit richer, transforming an architectural tour into a lively story about craftsmanship and tradition.

Tasting Two Ruinart Champagnes

After the cellar exploration, you’ll enjoy a tasting session featuring two of Ruinart’s champagnes. The tasting room offers a cozy setting to savor these wines and learn about their flavor profiles. The reviews highlight that the champagnes are of high quality—something that’s important for connoisseurs or those new to champagne but eager to understand its nuances.

The Vineyards and Villages

Beyond the cellars, the tour includes a visit to the Vineyards and villages of Champagne in the Reims mountain area—an additional two-hour segment. This part is free in terms of admission but packed with memorable views and insights into the region’s terroir.

Travelers like Annette B appreciated the guide’s knowledge about the area’s history and local villages, which enriches the understanding of why Champagne tastes the way it does. The scenic drive and stops make it a well-rounded experience, especially for those interested in the landscape’s influence on wine.

The Experience’s Strengths and Potential Drawbacks

The main strength is the small-group, private setting, allowing for personalized questions and a relaxed pace. The knowledgeable guides significantly enhance the experience, making the history and production process more accessible and engaging. Plus, the combination of cellar exploration and vineyard visits provides a comprehensive picture of Champagne.

However, at over $500, this is not a cheap tour. If your budget is tighter, consider whether the exclusive, private aspect justifies the premium. Also, since the tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed, it’s best suited for those who are confident about their schedule and interest level.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for champagne lovers, history buffs, and luxury travelers who enjoy a personalized, in-depth look at iconic brands. It also appeals to those who want a hassle-free day with transportation included, and who value quality over quantity.

Summing Up: Is It Worth It?

For the price, you acquire more than just a tasting—you gain access to centuries-old cellars, expert guides, and a beautiful landscape. The personal touch and the opportunity to see where champagne is born, combined with tasting two premium bottles, make this a worthwhile splurge for serious enthusiasts or special-occasion travelers.

The knowledgeable guides and stunning cellar architecture are often praised, making the time feel well spent. If you’re seeking an authentic experience that goes beyond simply sipping champagne and want to understand the craftsmanship, this tour hits the mark.

That said, it’s not for everyone—those on a tight budget or with only a casual interest might prefer a more economical or less exclusive option. But if you’re ready to indulge in a meaningful, well-organized champagne adventure, this private tour offers a memorable way to connect with Reims’ legendary wine tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation, cellar exploration, and vineyard visits.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip hotel pickups from Reims or Épernay, making logistics simple and stress-free.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the tour includes tastings of two champagnes, non-drinkers can still enjoy the cellar visit and scenery—just inform the guides in advance.

How many people are in the group?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is about $509.91 per person, reflecting its exclusive, all-inclusive nature.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the focus on wine tasting makes it most appealing to adults.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is typically booked around 136 days ahead and requires reservation due to its popularity and limited availability.

Are there any cancellations or refunds?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

What makes this tour different from other champagne tours?
The private, in-depth cellar visit paired with expert guides and tastings of premium Ruinart champagnes make this experience stand out.

To sum it up, the Ruinart Champagne Special Tour offers a refined, authentic look into one of the most historic champagne houses in the world. With its combination of atmospheric cellars, scenic vineyard visits, and top-tier tastings, it suits travelers eager for a deep connection with Champagne’s heritage. While it carries a steep price, the personalized, high-quality experience justifies it for those passionate about wine, history, and luxury travel. Perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your curiosity, this tour promises memories that will linger long after the last sip.