Day tour Tasting at Moët & Chandon and 2 Big Houses in Epernay

Trying to navigate the world of French Champagne can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with countless tours promising the “best” experience. That’s why I’m sharing a detailed review of this particular day tour in Épernay, which has consistently earned rave reviews and a perfect 5-star rating from travelers. If you’re curious about the Champagne process, love tasting bubbly, or simply want a well-organized way to explore some of the top houses without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour might be the perfect fit.

What really draws us in about this experience are the opportunity to taste Champagne at three iconic houses — including the legendary Moët & Chandon — and the delicious French lunch paired with Champagne. Plus, the short walk between locations and the inclusion of a fun train ride through the cellars keeps things lively and engaging. One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a private, guided experience; it’s more of a self-guided walking tour with some guided tastings, which works well for those who prefer a relaxed pace. This tour’s best suited for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those who enjoy a mix of education and fun in a beautiful setting.

Key Points

• Visit three major Champagne houses including Moët & Chandon and De Castellane, plus a third with a train ride through the cellars.
• Taste a total of seven glasses of Champagne across the day, with expert guidance during tastings.
• Enjoy a traditional French 3-course lunch with a Champagne aperitif, making it a hearty, memorable experience.
• Discover how Champagne is made, from tanks to barrels, with plenty of photo opportunities of quirky barrels and miniature trains.
• Walk a short distance between venues, so no need for extra transportation.
• Ideal for those who prefer a semi-guided experience with some independence, as there’s no private guide or transport included.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point: Moët & Chandon

The day begins at Moët et Chandon on Avenue de Champagne, where you’ll meet your group at 10:00 am. From the moment you step into this legendary house, you’ll get a sense of its grandeur. The tour includes a walk through the vast cellars where bottles are stored for years, stretching for miles beneath the streets. Here, you’re introduced to the history of the house — from its founder to its current inheritors — and learn what makes Moët’s Champagne so iconic.

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, who make the experience engaging. Thomas, for example, noted that the self-guided walking tour was well-organized and easy to follow, with each house having its own guide. We loved the way the tour balances historical insight with the sensory pleasure of tasting Champagne. You’ll sample three glasses during the guided tastings, appreciating the different aromas and flavors with the help of a sommelier. These tastings are designed to educate you on how to recognize the nuances in each Champagne.

A French Lunch with Champagne

After the initial tastings, you’re treated to a three-course French lunch, paired with a Champagne aperitif. This part of the tour feels like a real treat — filling, flavorful, and a great chance to soak in the regional ambiance. The lunch is a solid break in the day, and many travelers find it to be a highlight, especially if you enjoy pairing wine with good food.

Champagne de Castellane and Tower Views

Next, a short walk takes you to Champagne de Castellane, a house famous for its distinctive tower — the tallest in Épernay. Climbing the tower offers spectacular views of the town and vineyards, giving you a perspective that few other tours provide. The house itself is steeped in history, and you’ll learn about its evolution from a family business to a major Champagne producer.

Here, you’ll enjoy another double Champagne tasting, which keeps the bubbles flowing and the experience lively. Many guests rave about the expert guidance during tastings, helping even casual drinkers appreciate the different varieties.

The Fun Cellar Train Ride and Final Tasting

The final stop takes you to a third Champagne house, where a small train takes you on a playful ride through the expansive cellars. This part of the experience is often described as “quirky” and adds a fun element to the day. Passing by giant barrels, including one that holds 200,000 bottles of Champagne, creates a memorable photo opportunity.

After the train ride, you’ll finish with a second round of tasting, bringing the total to seven glasses in the day. Many reviews express satisfaction with the variety and quality of tastings, noting that the expert guidance helps bring out the aromas and flavors that might otherwise be overlooked.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At $581.06 per person, this tour is on the higher end, but it reflects the quality and depth of experience provided. The inclusion of a three-course lunch, six tastings, and access to major houses justifies the cost for most wine lovers. The tour’s small group size (max 8 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, which many find valuable in avoiding the crowded, impersonal feel of larger tours.

Duration and Logistics

The entire day lasts about 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am. You won’t need extra transportation because all venues are within walking distance (about 500 meters around), making it easy to explore at your own pace. The tour is self-guided with some guided tastings — perfect if you prefer a relaxed, flexible schedule.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour is ideal for those interested in Champagne, history, and food, but it’s not a private experience — so expect some independence with guided tastings. It’s suitable for most adults who enjoy wine and are comfortable walking short distances. However, it’s not specifically tailored for children or families.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

One traveler shared, “My wife and I had a great experience visiting some major Champagne houses and cellars… we found it to be well organized and easy to follow.” The guides’ knowledge is frequently praised, making the tastings informative and engaging. The quirky train ride is also mentioned as a fun highlight that adds a unique touch.

While most reviews are glowing, some note that the tour is more of a self-guided stroll with tastings, so if you’re looking for a highly personalized guide, this might not be the best fit. But for those who enjoy a bit of independence combined with expert tastings, it hits the right note.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to explore Champagne without the hassle of planning visits to multiple houses, this tour offers a good balance of guided tastings, education, and leisure. It’s perfect for travelers who want to get a sense of the Champagne region’s top producers, enjoy a traditional French meal, and have fun with a cellar train ride.

Note that it’s best suited for those comfortable walking short distances and eager to learn about Champagne in a relaxed setting. If you’re after a private, fully guided experience, you might prefer to look elsewhere.

FAQ

Is transportation provided during the tour?
No, transportation isn’t included. Since all venues are within about 500 meters, you can easily walk between them.

How many glasses of Champagne will I taste?
You will enjoy a total of seven glasses throughout the day, with tastings at each house guided by experts.

What’s included in the meal?
You get a traditional French 3-course lunch paired with a Champagne aperitif, making for a hearty and delicious break.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked about 32 days ahead, which is advisable, especially during peak seasons.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
It’s mainly designed for adults interested in wine and Champagne. The tour involves walking and tasting, so it’s best for those of legal drinking age.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Final Thoughts

This Champagne tasting tour in Épernay offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience some of the region’s most renowned houses. With expert guidance, a delicious meal, and a playful train ride through the cellars, it strikes a solid balance between education, fun, and indulgence. While it’s not a private tour, the small group size and thoughtfully curated stops make it a memorable option for those who want to learn about Champagne and taste exceptional bubbles.

If you’re a wine lover looking for a practical, enjoyable day in Champagne without fuss, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to book early, arrive ready to taste, and keep your camera handy for the quirky photo opportunities along the way.

Hopefully, this detailed review helps you decide if this champagne adventure matches your travel style. Cheers to bubbly days ahead!