Champagne isn’t just a drink—it’s a tradition, a craft, and a way to celebrate life’s little moments. The region’s world-famous sparkling wines are made in a way that’s both precise and passionate, making Champagne a perfect destination for wine lovers. For those who appreciate the art of winemaking, a wine tour in Champagne offers more than just pretty views; it’s a chance to learn directly from the makers, taste unique styles, and uncover the stories behind each bubbly sip.
Our favorites include tours that range from intimate cellar tastings to in-depth vineyard explorations. Among the top picks is the guided Epernay: Guided Tour of Champagne Cellar with Tastings, which combines history, craftsmanship, and three different champagne tastings in a 200-year-old cellar. Another stand-out is the Champagne: Canard-Duchêne Champagne House Tour, offering insight into both the production process and the vineyard landscape. For a slightly longer, more immersive experience, the Prestige Champagne Experience – Passy-Grigny blends heritage with tasting, including a visit to the Eco-museum and a behind-the-scenes look at a renowned winery. Below, we break down each experience to help you find the perfect one.
1. Epernay: Guided Tour of Champagne Cellar with Tastings
For just $20 per person, this 1-hour guided tour offers an authentic peek into the world of Champagne at the Vollereaux Champagne House. Located in the Marne Valley, this tour is praised for its excellent value—rated 4.7 out of 5 based on 484 reviews—making it a popular choice for first-timers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
The tour focuses on the champagne-making process, with a particular emphasis on the 200-year-old cellar where the Vollereaux family has stored and aged their bubbly for generations. You’ll learn about the traditional methods used to produce Champagne and the unique characteristics that make each bottle special. After the tour, you’ll taste three different Champagnes, which provides a clear sense of how subtle variations in terroir and technique influence flavor.
What makes this experience stand out is its accessibility and depth. The 1-hour format means you get a solid overview without feeling rushed, and the price point makes it an easy add-on to a day exploring Épernay or the Champagne region. Ideal for those who want an introduction to Champagne production with a friendly, informative guide.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly tour that delivers a thorough look at Champagne’s history and flavors, perfect for curious visitors who want to taste more than just the bubbly.
2. Champagne: Canard-Duchêne Champagne House Tour
At number 2, the Canard-Duchêne Champagne House Tour offers an inviting, comprehensive look at the entire process of making Champagne, all for $25. Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 66 reviews, it’s especially appealing to those interested in both the production and the setting.
This tour covers several key aspects: wandering through the wine cellars, where the aging process happens, and exploring the vines that supply the fruit. The guide shares expert insights into how the champagne is crafted, from grape selection to fermentation. Visitors also get to see the stained glass windows of the old chapel—adding a touch of historic charm to the experience.
One of the tour’s strengths is its focus on educating visitors about the unique steps involved in Champagne production. The vineyard visit is a highlight, offering an outside perspective that complements the cellar insights. The tour’s intimate size and detailed explanations make it suitable for both casual visitors and serious wine students.
Bottom Line: This tour balances historical charm with detailed production insights, ideal for those who want a well-rounded Champagne experience in a friendly setting.
3. Prestige Champagne Experience – Passy-Grigny
If you’re looking for an immersive, behind-the-scenes experience, the Prestige Champagne Experience in Passy-Grigny is a top pick. Priced at $44 for about 1.5 hours, it offers a deeper dive into Champagne production with a focus on the House of Champagne Dom Caudron.
This tour is particularly notable for its comprehensive approach. You start with a visit to the Eco-museum, where you learn about Champagne’s history and evolution, then watch a short film on the winemaking process in the cinema room for a visual overview. The highlight is the guided tasting of three prestige Champagnes: oak barrel, vintage, and solera, each giving a different perspective on aging and style.
What sets this experience apart is its emphasis on premium wines and the opportunity to taste multiple styles side-by-side, making it suitable for visitors with a more discerning palate. The tour is best suited for those eager to understand what makes Champagne so unique—from the grape to the glass—and for serious enthusiasts.
With only 13 reviews, it’s a small operation, which means a more personalized experience. If you enjoy learning about winemaking techniques and tasting top-tier Champagne, this is a fantastic option.
Bottom Line: A more detailed and premium experience that’s perfect for serious Champagne fans or those curious about the subtleties of aging and style.
How to Choose Your Champagne Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time available, and specific interests. For a quick but authentic taste of Champagne, the Epernay cellar tour offers excellent value. If you want a more comprehensive look at both the production and the vineyard, the Canard-Duchêne tour is a strong choice. For those wanting a premium, immersive experience focused on winemaking techniques and tasting high-end Champagnes, the Prestige Champagne Experience is ideal.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons in spring and summer. Also, check each tour’s inclusions—some include transportation or additional tastings, which can enhance your experience. Remember, whether you prefer a short intro or a full immersion, Champagne offers a variety of tours suited to different tastes and budgets.
Final Thoughts
The Champagne region has plenty to offer, whether you’re just starting to explore sparkling wines or you’re a seasoned connoisseur. For a quick, affordable overview, the Epernay tour provides a great introduction. If you’re keen to understand the entire production process and see beautiful vineyards, the Canard-Duchêne tour is a fantastic choice. For those eager to deepen their knowledge and sample top-tier Champagnes, the Prestige experience offers a more exclusive look.
No matter which tour you pick, Champagne is a region that rewards curiosity and patience. Be sure to book your experience well in advance, especially if visiting during peak seasons. Exploring Champagne’s sparkling world promises memorable tastings and a richer understanding of one of the world’s most celebrated wines.