From Reims/Epernay: Private Gold Champagne Tasting Tour

A Friendly Look at the Private Gold Champagne Tasting Tour from Reims & Epernay

If you’re planning a trip to the Champagne region and want a curated experience that combines visits to renowned vineyards with intimate tastings, this Private Gold Champagne Tasting Tour might catch your eye. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, the details suggest it’s a well-rounded and engaging way to truly get a feel for what makes Champagne special — especially for those who appreciate quality and expert insight.

What immediately draws us in is the chance to visit famous vineyards and charming villages with a personal guide. The inclusion of private visits to family growers means you’re not just looking at the big brands but also discovering the stories of independent producers. Plus, the stunning scenery and historic sites like Hautvillers add a cultural layer that’s hard to beat. On the flip side, the price tag of $603 per person is a bit steep, but for what’s included — tastings, private guide, transportation, and lunch — it could be a good value if you’re seeking a premium experience.

This tour is best suited for those who want a deep, yet manageable, dive into Champagne’s vineyards, history, and flavors. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a personalized touch, are curious about Champagne production, and want a day free of worries about logistics. If you’re traveling with a partner, a friend, or even a small group, it’ll feel exclusive but not overly formal.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Small groups and private guide ensure tailored attention.
• Coverage of key Champagne regions: Visit the Côte des Blancs, famed for Chardonnay, and historic villages like Hautvillers.
• Multiple tastings: Enjoy a variety of Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes, including special styles like old vines and vintage.
• Cultural insights: Learn about Champagne’s history and viticultural practices, plus see Dom Pérignon’s grave.
• Scenic vistas: Breathtaking views of the Marne Valley and iconic vineyards.
• Includes a lunch: A convivial meal with Champagne, cheese, charcuterie, regional biscuits, and more, adding to the convivial vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details: What You Can Expect

This 7-hour private tour is designed for those craving an in-depth look at Champagne’s rich landscape and delicious wines. From the moment you’re picked up in Epernay or Reims, the journey feels personal, with a dedicated guide who shares insights about the region’s history and terroir.

Visiting Champagne’s Most Famous Villages

Your day begins with a trip to Hautvillers, a village renowned as the “Cradle of Champagne.” The highlight here is a visit to the church where Dom Pérignon’s grave lies. This is more than just a photo stop — it’s a chance to connect with the spiritual birthplace of Champagne. Expect a guided tour that lasts around 30 minutes, giving you a taste of the village’s historic charm.

Next, your driver will take you through vineyards, stopping for panoramic photos of scenic landscapes. The views of the Marne Valley and the Grand Cru vineyards are truly striking. This is the kind of scenery that makes you understand why Champagne is such a coveted wine — the sunlight, the rolling hills, the lush vineyards.

Visits to Family Growers & Vineyards

The core of this experience lies in visiting two independent family-run producers. Here, you’ll learn firsthand about the Champagne-making process, from vineyard management to pressing and aging. The owners or experts will guide you through their cellars and presses, explaining what makes their Champagne unique.

Expect tastings of six different Champagnes, each with commentary on style and production. The varieties include Grand Cru, Premier Cru, vintage, old vines, and oak barrel-aged Champagnes. The descriptions suggest a diversity that will appeal to both casual sippers and more seasoned wine enthusiasts.

Tasting & Lunch

Tastings are described as commented with advice, which can be especially helpful if you’re new to Champagne. You’ll taste a mixture of styles: natural, brut, vintage, aged in oak, and perhaps some with no dosage, showcasing the range of what Champagne can be.

Along With Champagne, you’ll try Champagne-based spirits and aperitifs like Ratafia and Marc de Champagne, which adds a fun twist to the tasting experience. The tour includes a gourmet lunch at a local Champagne and dining bar, where you’ll enjoy regional charcuterie, cheese, and farm meals alongside a bottle of Champagne for two, fostering a convivial atmosphere.

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Scenic and Cultural Highlights

Driving through villages like Mareuil-sur-Aÿ and passing by Champagne Houses such as Bollinger, Deutz, and Ayala enriches the experience with a sense of history and prestige. The stop in Aÿ-Champagne, once a hub for the industry, offers insights into the region’s heritage and the importance of Pinot Noir grapes, especially in the Grand Cru vineyards.

Final Thoughts on Logistics and Value

The entire day is facilitated by a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle with a passionate guide who speaks both English and French. The pick-up and drop-off service adds convenience, making it easier to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about logistics.

While the price of $603 per person might seem high, it includes private visits, tastings, transportation, and the lunch, which can usually add up if you tried to organize this yourself independently. For wine lovers wanting a curated, intimate experience, it’s probably worth the investment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for travelers looking for an immersive, premium day of Champagne tasting with a personal touch. If you enjoy learning about wine production, love scenic landscapes, and want to visit both famous and family-run wineries, this tour offers a well-balanced package.

It’s also great if you prefer having all logistics handled for you, with a knowledgeable guide to enrich your understanding. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more spontaneous or group-based tour, you might find this experience a bit pricier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This specific tour is geared toward adult participants interested in Champagne and wine tasting. There’s no mention of family-friendly activities, so it’s best suited for adults.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, visits and tastings at 2 family-run producers, a scenic drive through vineyards, a guided tour of Hautvillers, and a Champagne lunch with a bottle for two.

Can I customize the tour or choose specific wineries?
The details suggest a fixed itinerary centered around the highlights, but since it’s a private tour, you might be able to discuss specific preferences with the provider.

What kind of Champagne will I taste?
Expect to sample a range of Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes, including styles like vintage, old vines, oak-aged, and natural varieties. The tasting will include multiple Champagnes with commentary.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle, making the day comfortable, especially given the long drives between vineyards and villages.

How long are the visits at each location?
Visit durations vary but generally include about 30 minutes at Hautvillers, 1.5 hours at each winery, and additional time for scenic stops and lunch.

What if it rains?
The tour will take place rain or shine, so be prepared for the weather, especially if you want to enjoy the scenic views.

If this tour sounds like the intimate, scenic Champagne experience you’re after, it’s worth considering. You’ll leave with not just bottles but stories, views, and a deeper appreciation for the region’s sparkling wines.

You can check availability for your dates here: