Exclusive Champagne tour: 2 family houses and restaurant

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the true soul of Champagne beyond the crowded tourist spots, this exclusive private tour might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t personally taken this exact experience, but based on detailed descriptions and reviews, it promises a personalized, luxurious day that combines boutique champagne visits with a gourmet lunch—and all with the comfort of private transportation.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to see family-owned Champagne houses and small producers, which often means a more intimate and authentic tasting experience. Plus, everything is tailored to you, from the pickup location to the timing of each stop. However, it’s not exactly a budget outing, so if you’re after a more casual or cheaper experience, this might not be your best bet.

This tour appeals most to those who appreciate personalized service and want a deeper dive into Champagne’s lesser-known producers. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, curated experience with a touch of luxury, and who value expert guides sharing insights along the way.

Key Points

• Private, tailored experience with a private Mercedes and dedicated guide
• Visits to 2 boutique Champagne houses with tastings included
• Gourmet 3-course lunch at a top regional restaurant
• Flexible pickup and drop-off in Reims or Épernay, with options for other locations
• Insightful guided tours, with explanations in English or French
• Includes water bottles and air-conditioning for comfort during the day

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Champagne Tour Stands Out

This experience catches the eye because of its personalized approach. Instead of large group tours, you’ll be treated to a private journey with a guide who accompanies you throughout the day, explaining the intricacies of champagne production and sharing stories you might not hear elsewhere. At just $690 per person, it’s a more premium option, but one that seems to justify the price with exclusive access and luxury transport.

The emphasis on family-owned houses and smaller producers is pretty special. Many visitors want to steer clear of the big-name champagne brands and instead discover the craftsmanship behind the bottles. You’ll get to see ancestral know-how up close, taste prestige cuvées, and even enjoy the scenery of the Champagne countryside, which is as charming as the drinks themselves.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary and Experience

Pickup and Initial Exploration

Your day begins with a flexible pickup — either in Épernay or Reims. This is helpful because it allows you to start from the town that suits your travel plans best. The guide and chauffeur, both fluent in English and French, will greet you in a private Mercedes, ensuring your comfort from the start.

Once on the road, you’ll enjoy some light commentary about the region’s history and vineyards, setting the scene for the day ahead. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives pleasant, especially if the weather’s warm.

Guided Tour of Reims (40 minutes)

Your first stop might be Reims, a city famous for its cathedral and history. The guided tour here is relatively brief, about 40 minutes, but it helps set the context for your champagne adventure. Expect to see some of the highlights and hear stories that bring the region’s past to life.

While this isn’t the main focus, it’s a nice touch that helps travelers who want a bit of culture woven into their day without taking over the whole itinerary.

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Champagne House Visit and Tasting (1.5 hours)

Next, you’ll visit your first boutique champagne house. These are family-run or smaller producers, which means you’ll see a different side of Champagne production—more personal, less commercial, and often more artisanal. You’ll enjoy a tasting of their prestigious cuvées, with explanations from your guide about what makes their approach unique. According to reviews, knowledgeable guides help make these tastings informative and engaging, often sharing stories behind each bottle.

Some reviews have highlighted the authenticity of these visits, with guides sharing insider secrets and answering questions openly. Expect to see the vineyards, the cellars, and perhaps even some ancestral tools used in production.

Gourmet Lunch at a Top Regional Restaurant (1.5 hours)

After your first tasting, a gourmet 3-course lunch awaits. The chosen restaurant is considered one of the best in the region, promising high-quality regional cuisine paired with the Champagne you’ve tasted. It’s a leisurely break, allowing you to relax and enjoy the flavors of the area.

Lunch is included in the package, which adds great value considering the high standard of the meal. However, drinks during lunch are not included, so you’ll need to buy any additional beverages separately. Expect classic dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, and possibly a glass of Champagne to accompany your meal.

Visit to Épernay and a Second Champagne House (20 minutes tour & tasting)

Post-lunch, you’ll head to Épernay for a short guided tour. This could include a quick look at the town’s famed avenues or some of its notable sights. The main focus remains on champagne tastings at your second boutique house—likely a different producer to give a broader perspective.

The second tasting usually lasts about 1.5 hours, and you’ll get to sample different styles, perhaps including some more accessible or everyday cuvées alongside prestige bottles. This variety helps you appreciate the range of options within the Champagne world.

Final Drop-off and Reflection

The day wraps up with your chauffeur dropping you back at your initial pickup point, or anywhere else in Reims or Épernay you might specify. The flexible scheduling means you could extend your stay in the region if desired.

What Travelers Say About This Experience

Multiple reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, with many praising the depth of explanations and friendliness. One reviewer mentioned, “The guides really knew their stuff and made the whole day feel very personal,” while another appreciated the chance to visit family-run houses that aren’t open to large groups.

However, some reviewers pointed out that the cost is on the higher side—but many believe it’s justified by the boutique experiences, private transport, and gourmet lunch. Others noted that the itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts looking for a more exclusive, curated day. If you enjoy learning about the production process and prefer boutique, family-run producers over mainstream brands, you’ll find this very satisfying. It’s also ideal if you want comfortable transportation and personalized attention.

Travelers who appreciate a good meal and scenic countryside will enjoy the combination of wine and landscape. However, if your main priority is budget or you’re traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit.

The Price: Is It Worth It?

At $690 per person, this tour is a premium experience. For that, you get private transport, two exclusive champagne tastings, a gourmet lunch, and a knowledgeable guide. When you consider the cost of private transportation and premium tastings, it’s actually a good deal if you compare it to other luxury tours.

The value here lies in the personalized experience and the chance to visit boutique houses that are often not accessible to the public. Budget travelers might find this steep, but those seeking an elegant and educational day will likely feel it’s well worth it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxury, private Champagne experience that combines insider visits, expert guidance, and fine dining, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s perfect for those who want to indulge in regional specialties while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and expert commentary.

While it’s not the most casual or budget-friendly option, the emphasis on authenticity and quality makes it stand out. You’ll leave with not just bottles but a richer understanding of Champagne’s artistry—plus some memorable moments in the scenic countryside.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, the experience is designed for private groups, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Pickup and drop-off are included in Reims or Épernay, with options for other locations upon request and for an extra fee.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts around 8 hours, with flexible starting times depending on your preference.

Are the tastings at boutique houses different from larger producers?
Yes, boutique houses often offer more intimate tastings with a focus on craftsmanship, which many visitors find more meaningful.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a three-course gourmet lunch at a top regional restaurant is included, but drinks during the meal are not.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s not specifically designed for children, especially babies under 1 year or pregnant women, due to tasting and specific tour activities.

Do I need to know French to enjoy the tour?
Guides speak both English and French, so language shouldn’t be a barrier for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In the end, this tour offers a regal taste of Champagne’s boutique charm, perfect for those who want a personalized, educational, and indulgent day in France’s sparkling heart.