Grand Vintage Private Champagne Moet Chandon Veuve Clicquot

Thinking about a day trip from Paris to indulge in some of France’s most famous bubbly? This Grand Vintage Private Champagne Tour offers a curated glimpse into the world of Champagne, visiting iconic houses like Moet & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot. This experience promises a blend of history, stunning scenery, and tastings that can elevate any trip to the region.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the luxury transportation in Mercedes ensures comfort and style throughout the day. Second, the guided visits and tastings are tailored options, giving you exclusive access to some of the most celebrated Champagne cellars. However, keep in mind that it’s a long day – roughly 12.5 hours from start to finish – so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full, immersive experience.

One thing to consider is the cost — at $802 per person, it’s not the most budget-friendly option, but many reviews suggest it’s well worth the splurge if you’re a Champagne enthusiast. This tour is ideal for those who want a luxurious, informative, and personalized experience, especially if you appreciate the finer details of Champagne production and history.

Key Points

• Luxury transport in Mercedes ensures a comfortable ride through scenic landscapes.
• Guided cellar tours at Moet & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot are both informative and exclusive.
• Tastings include high-quality, vintage champagnes, with options tailored to your preferences.
• The itinerary combines wine culture, stunning vistas, and historic sites like Reims Cathedral.
• The tour is private or small group, making it more intimate and personalized.
• While priced at $802, many reviewers feel the experience offers great value considering the exclusivity and quality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect

This tour kicks off bright and early, with pickup from your Paris hotel around 7:30 AM. The ride to Champagne takes about 2 hours, during which you’ll enjoy the scenic views of vineyards and rolling hills — a lovely way to start the day. The motorcade is in a Mercedes E220 or a minivan, depending on your group size, ensuring plenty of space and comfort.

Once in Épernay, the heart of Champagne country, you’ll step into the legendary Moet & Chandon for a guided cellar visit and tasting. The tour here is offered in two premium options: the “Grand Vintage” experience, for up to 10 people with 1.5 hours of exploration and two glasses of vintage bubbly, or the “Moet Collection”, a more exclusive 2-hour experience with fewer guests and a focus on vintage and collection champagnes.

The highlight is the underground cellars, where thousands of bottles age and mature. You’ll learn about the meticulous process behind each bottle, adding a new appreciation for the craftsmanship involved. A quote from a recent guest describes it as “fabulous” with “exclusive and vintage champagnes,” emphasizing the quality and intimacy of the experience.

Lunch in Épernay

After the morning’s visits, a break for lunch at a traditional French restaurant in Épernay offers a chance to soak in the local atmosphere. The town itself is a treat — a charming hub along the Marne River, lined with avenues of champagne houses and inviting cafes. Many visitors find the lunch to be a wonderful pairing with the morning’s tastings, but keep in mind that some reviews mention the lunch spot’s limited ambiance, so if you’re after a scenic or gourmet meal, you might want to plan accordingly.

Hautvillers and the Birthplace of Champagne

Post-lunch, the tour heads to Hautvillers, a tiny village that holds legendary status as the home of Dom Perignon. You’ll visit the Abbey Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, with its picturesque church and panoramic viewpoints over vineyards and the Marne River. It’s a peaceful, photo-worthy stop where you can imagine the monks of centuries past perfecting their wine-making craft.

This village is also where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the local Champagne producers — 26 in total — giving you a taste of the region’s small-scale, artisanal spirit.

Veuve Clicquot: A Deep Dive into One of Champagne’s Giants

Next, the journey continues to Veuve Clicquot, a house with roots going back to 1772. Known for its bold history and innovative techniques, Veuve Clicquot is one of the largest producers, making over 22 million bottles annually. You’ll get a guided tour of the cellars, which many reviews describe as “great” and “very informative.”

Guests can choose between two tasting options here: the “Une Seule Qualite” with four cuvées, including vintage and extra brut, or the “L’art du vieillissement”, a longer, more detailed tasting that includes vintage wines from different years, some in magnum bottles and a private cellar with 1990 vintage alongside cheeses. Many reviewers highlight the diversity of the tastings and the knowledge of the guides, calling the experience “amazing” and “well-organized.”

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Reims and the Historic Cathedral

The last cultural stop is Reims Cathedral, where many French kings were crowned. This nearby UNESCO World Heritage site is a striking example of Gothic architecture, and you can explore it at your own pace during a short self-guided visit. It’s a meaningful cultural touchpoint to round off the day before heading back to Paris.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After soaking in the history and tasting some of the finest Champagne, the trip wraps up with a comfortable 2.5-hour drive back to Paris, arriving around 8 PM. Many guests appreciate the full day’s itinerary, though some mention the long hours — so if you’re not a fan of extensive travel, this might feel a bit tiring.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re a champagne lover who appreciates a more luxurious and curated day out. The small-group setting and private transportation make it a special, intimate journey. It’s also well-suited for people who want a deep dive into Champagne production, history, and culture without the hassle of DIY planning.

However, keep in mind the price point and the full-day commitment. If budget or time is a concern, there are other options, but many reviews confirm that the quality, exclusivity, and knowledgeable guides make this a worthwhile splurge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically tailored for families, the tour focuses on adult tastings and historical sites. Children might enjoy the scenic views and villages but should be comfortable with long hours and alcohol-free options during the day.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12.5 hours, including travel, visits, lunch, and sightseeing.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included, but drinks and additional meals are not. You might want to bring extra water or snacks for comfort.

What are the different tasting options?
Guests can choose between two high-end tasting experiences at both Moet & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, featuring vintage, collection, or cuvée tastings.

What transportation is used?
You’ll be driven in a Mercedes E220 or a Mercedes minivan, depending on your group size, ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride.

Is the tour private?
Yes, the tour operates as a private or small-group experience, with guaranteed departures.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility.

How much does it cost?
The tour costs $802 per person, which includes all tastings, guides, transportation, and visits.

Do I need to pay anything extra?
No, all fees and taxes are included, but meals and drinks outside the scheduled lunch are not.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxurious, educational, and scenic day dedicated to Champagne, this private tour checks many boxes. It offers insider access to world-famous houses, expert guides, and stunning vineyard views — all in a comfortable, intimate setting. Although the price might seem steep, reviewers frequently note the value in exclusivity, quality of tastings, and the overall seamless organization.

This experience suits travelers who want to learn, taste, and enjoy at a relaxed but informative pace. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or small groups eager to indulge in the finer things in life while exploring the charming Champagne region.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to upgrade your Paris trip, this tour offers a memorable way to experience the artistry and history behind France’s most celebrated bubbles.

You can check availability for your dates here: