Champagne Private VIP Wine Day Trip with Michelin Lunch

Planning a trip from Paris and dreaming of tasting some of the world’s most celebrated sparkling wines? If so, this Champagne Private VIP Wine Day Trip might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally done this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what to expect — a day filled with luxurious tastings, expert-guided visits, and a fine dining experience.

What truly stands out about this experience are the knowledgeable guides who make the journey informative and engaging, and the inclusion of a Michelin-starred lunch paired with wine, elevating the whole day. On the flip side, the price tag might seem steep, and the long day requires a fair bit of energy and an appreciation for wine and history.

This tour could be perfect if you’re a wine lover wanting a comprehensive, upscale look at the Champagne region. It also suits travelers who prefer a more personalized, private experience rather than a crowded group tour. Let’s break down what you can expect and why this trip might be worth it—or not.

Key Points

• Luxury transportation ensures comfort on the roughly 90-minute drive from Paris.
• You will visit two Champagne houses, exploring the production process and tasting top Champagnes.
• The tour includes at least eight Champagne tastings, plus a glass of top Champagne at the start.
• Gourmet lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined three-course meal with wine pairings.
• The trip covers vineyard walks and possibly a visit to Reims Cathedral and Dom Pérignon’s tomb.
• The entire experience is private, making it intimate and flexible to your interests.

An Overview of the Experience

This full-day tour is designed for those who want to indulge in Champagne like connoisseurs. Starting early in the morning around 7:30 am, you’ll be picked up from your Paris hotel and whisked away in a private vehicle, such as a luxury minivan or a sleek black car. From there, the journey takes about 90 minutes east to the Champagne region, a scenic drive that sets the tone for a day of elegance and discovery.

The first highlight is a visit to a renowned Champagne house—either Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, or Ruinart—depending on availability. This private tour is a real treat, offering an inside look at the cellars, where you’ll walk through galleries and learn about the Champagne-making process from seasoned guides. The house’s sommelier will pour you a glass of their best Champagne and teach you how to taste like a pro, which is a fun experience even for those with some wine knowledge.

Afterward, you’ll enjoy a stroll through the vineyard landscapes, where your guide will share insights about the terroir and the region’s grape-growing traditions. The views are often described as breathtaking, with rolling hills and lush vineyards stretching out between Reims, Ay, and Epernay.

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the gourmet lunch. Set in a stunning château, this three-course meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant is paired with carefully selected wines, adding an extra layer of luxury. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food and the attentive service—something you’ll remember long after the glasses are empty.

Next, you’ll visit a smaller boutique producer in Epernay, where you’ll savor rare and exclusive Champagne selections not available everywhere. This part of the tour offers a more personal feel, often praised for the intimacy and the chance to taste unique bottles.

Finally, the day wraps up with your return to Paris, typically around 7 pm. The entire experience lasts about 11 hours—an all-day commitment, but one filled with memorable sights, tastes, and stories.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Hotel Pickup and Transportation

Starting early, you’ll be picked up at your Paris hotel, ensuring you beat the crowds and make the most of your day. The private transport, often a sleek black car or luxury van, adds a level of comfort and exclusivity. This isn’t a big bus tour; it’s tailored for a small group or private party, which means more flexibility and personalized attention.

Reims and Champagne House Visits

The first major stop is Reims, home to some of France’s most prestigious Champagne houses. Depending on availability, you might tour Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, or Ruinart—each with its unique history and style. The tour inside these historic cellars is a highlight; walking through maze-like galleries filled with aging Champagne creates a special atmosphere. The house guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making complex production details approachable.

One reviewer mentioned, “Chloé was an excellent guide. She is knowledgeable, informative, humorous, and pleasant,” emphasizing how the guides bring the experience to life. You’ll go behind the scenes, learn about the meticulous methods used, and savor a top Champagne pour right at the source.

Vineyards and Regional Views

Next, a walk through the vineyards allows you to connect with the land that gives Champagne its character. Your guide will share insights into the regions’ different terroirs—Montagne de Reims, Côte des Blancs, and Vallée de la Marne—and how they influence the flavor profiles of the wines.

Travelers frequently mention how stunning the scenery is, often with “magnificent countryside” views. It’s a peaceful, picturesque interlude that enhances the understanding of the Champagne’s origins.

Michelin Lunch Experience

One of the tour’s main selling points is the three-course lunch in a Michelin-starred restaurant. Set in a château, this meal promises refinement and high-quality cuisine paired with wines selected by a sommelier. The reviews rave about the delicious food, the attentive service, and the pairing that enhances both the meal and the Champagne tastings.

Lunch typically lasts around three hours, giving you ample time to relax, indulge, and enjoy the setting. It’s a splurge, but many consider it a highlight that justifies the price.

Epernay and Boutique Winery Visit

In Epernay, you’ll visit a more intimate Champagne producer—often a boutique winery—where you can taste rarer bottles and learn about smaller-scale Champagne production. This part of the experience is highly praised for its personal touch, with guides sharing stories and insider knowledge.

One reviewer appreciated the “small Champagne house” visit for revealing a different side of Champagne, away from the huge houses.

Return to Paris

The day concludes with your private vehicle returning you to Paris, usually arriving around 7 pm. This allows for a full, immersive experience without feeling rushed, though it is a long day on the road.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers overwhelmingly give this tour a perfect rating, often describing the guides as “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “accommodating.” Patrice, Bastien, and Christophe are singled out for making the day memorable with their warmth and expertise.

Many mention how the Champagne tastings, especially the top-tier pour at the start, set a luxurious tone for the day. The lunch in particular gets high praise—“food and wine of the highest quality”—and the setting in a château makes it feel truly special.

Some highlight the scenic drives and vineyard views, calling them “magnificent” and “breathtaking.” The small group or private nature of the tour allows for more personalized interactions and flexibility, which many travelers value.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $1,245.12 per person, this is definitely a splurge. But considering the all-inclusive nature—luxury transportation, multiple Champagne tastings, a Michelin lunch, and private guides—the value is there for those who want a seamless, upscale experience.

The tour offers convenience and exclusivity, especially if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and want an expert-led, personalized day. If you’re a serious Champagne enthusiast or celebrating a special occasion, many see it as worth every penny.

However, if your budget is tight or you’re not particularly interested in high-end Champagne or gourmet meals, simpler or group tours might suit you better.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for:

• Travelers seeking a luxurious and hassle-free way to explore Champagne
• Wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Champagne production from insiders
• Foodies who want a high-end lunch paired with their tastings
• Those celebrating a special occasion or looking for an indulgent day trip from Paris

It might be less suitable for:

• Budget travelers, given the high price
• People with limited mobility, as walking in cellars and vineyards is involved
• Those who prefer a more casual or self-guided experience

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, you’ll be picked up from your Paris hotel in private luxury transportation, which makes the day both comfortable and convenient.

How many Champagne houses will we visit? You will visit two Champagne houses, which could be Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, or Ruinart, depending on availability.

What is included in the lunch? The tour features a three-course meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant, paired with wines selected by the sommelier, ensuring a refined dining experience.

Are there multiple tastings? Yes, you will taste at least eight different Champagnes throughout the day, starting with a glass of top Champagne upon arrival.

Can I see Reims Cathedral or Dom Pérignon’s tomb? These are optional stops that depend on timing and your preferences. Your guide can arrange visits upon request.

Is this tour suitable for children? The minimum drinking age is 18 years, so it’s intended for adults. If traveling with younger family members, consider other options.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an elegant, all-inclusive way to explore Champagne’s best, this private VIP tour delivers on sophistication and education. The combination of insider visits, scenic vineyard views, and a luxurious meal makes it a memorable, high-end experience.

Ideal for those who appreciate fine wine, excellent food, and seamless service, it’s best suited for travelers who want to indulge without the hassle of planning. Keep in mind the price reflects the quality and exclusivity, so it’s best viewed as an indulgence rather than a budget-friendly outing.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to elevate your French trip, this tour offers a refined taste of Champagne—both figuratively and literally.

Enjoy your trip, and cheers to finding the perfect bubbles!