Moet et Chandon Tasting and Fun Private Tour in Champagne

If you’re dreaming of exploring the heart of French Champagne, this private tour offers a taste of the best—from legendary houses to stunning vineyard vistas. Though I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gleaned plenty of info to help you decide if it’s right for your trip. What stands out immediately are the chance to visit Moët & Chandon, one of the most iconic Champagne brands, and the personalized nature of the experience, thanks to the private group setup. Plus, the visit to Dom Pérignon’s tomb in Hautvillers adds a historical touch that really rounds out the day.

Two things I really like about this tour are the detailed cellar visit and tasting at Moët & Chandon, and the beautiful drive through the vineyards—both offer genuine insight into Champagne production and landscape. However, a potential consideration is that lunch is not included, so you’ll want to budget some time and money for a decent meal in Epernay. This tour works best for those who enjoy wine, history, and picturesque scenery, especially if you’re looking for a flexible, private experience with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Private group experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility
• Includes visits to both a major Champagne house and a boutique producer
• Highlights the iconic Avenue de Champagne—perfect for photo ops
• Visit to Dom Pérignon’s tomb adds historical significance
• Tasting of multiple Champagnes at different stops
• Approximate 8-hour day with a mix of touring, tasting, and sightseeing

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour kicks off with a pickup from your Reims hotel—an advantage if you’re staying locally, because it saves you the hassle of transportation. The drive to the vineyards takes roughly 30 minutes, setting the tone with scenic views of the lush Marne River Valley. We loved the way this drive gives you an immediate sense of the landscape that makes Champagne so special.

Our first stop is Hautvillers Abbey, where you’ll visit Dom Pérignon’s tomb. For history buffs, this is a meaningful moment—knowing you’re standing near the tomb of the monk often credited with pioneering many Champagne techniques. The guide usually shares some background, making this a more engaging experience than just a quick photo stop.

Next, it’s on to Épernay and Moët et Chandon, the largest Champagne house in the world. The guided tour through their extensive cellars is a highlight—here, you’ll get to see the massive underground tunnels and learn how Champagne is stored and aged. The guide will lead you through the process and, of course, you’ll be tasting two glasses of Champagne—a real treat for wine lovers. From the reviews, it’s clear many find this part particularly enjoyable, with Raphael, the guide, earning praise for being knowledgeable and easygoing.

After the house visit, you’ll drive along the famous Avenue de Champagne. Flanked by grand Champagne houses, this street is a feast for the eyes—and great for photos. Although just a quick sightseeing stop (about 20 minutes), it’s enough to soak in the grandeur and snap some memorable pictures.

Lunch Break and Local Charm

The tour doesn’t include lunch but provides suggestions for good restaurants in Épernay. This is a good chance to relax and grab some local fare—perhaps some regional specialties or a simple café meal. Keep in mind that the time here is around 1.5 hours, so planning ahead can help maximize your experience.

Boutique Champagne Producer Visit

The final tasting is at a small boutique Champagne producer. Unlike the big names, this stop offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Champagne is produced on a smaller scale. Here, you’ll often taste three different Champagnes, which helps you appreciate the variety and craftsmanship. Based on reviews, this part of the day is especially valued for its authentic, less commercial vibe and the chance to taste more unique or less widely available bottles.

Wrapping Up

The tour concludes with a return to Reims, typically after about 8 hours. The private transportation ensures comfort and convenience, with bottled water and air-conditioning making the day enjoyable.

More Great Tours Nearby

What We Think About the Experience

The combination of major Champagne house tours and intimate boutique visits makes this tour appealing for those wanting both breadth and depth. Seeing the massive cellars of Moët & Chandon offers a sense of scale and history, while the boutique stop delivers a more personal touch.

Reviewers frequently mention the guides’ expertise, with Raphael earning praise for being knowledgeable and friendly. This makes a difference, especially when you’re navigating such a complex subject as Champagne production.

The scenic vineyard drive is another highlight, giving you fantastic glimpses of grapevines that stretch across rolling hills—ideal for photography or just soaking in the beauty of the Champagne region.

While lunch is not included, the tour’s flexibility allows you to choose where to eat, and the suggested restaurants tend to get good marks. That said, keep in mind that this experience is quite structured in terms of timing, so if you’re looking for a completely relaxed, unhurried day, this might feel a bit tight.

The cost of $525 per person reflects a premium experience, but considering the private transport, multiple tastings, and expert guides, it offers good value for those passionate about wine and history.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you love Champagne and want a comprehensive, yet personalized experience, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for wine enthusiasts eager to learn, as the guides are praised for their knowledge. The private setting makes it a good choice for small groups or couples seeking more intimacy.

While not specifically tailored for families or children, the focus on wine tastings and cellar visits might mean it’s less ideal for younger kids. Travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery, history, and good food will find plenty to enjoy here.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most Champagne Houses are handicap friendly, but some small producers with stairs into cellars might not be accessible. It’s best to advise about handicap access beforehand.

How long does each part of the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours. The Moët & Chandon cellar tour and tasting take roughly 105 minutes, the boutique producer about 90 minutes, and the other stops vary between 20-30 minutes.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but the guide will suggest restaurants in Épernay. You’ll need to budget around 1.5 hours for lunch.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, making it accessible for many travelers.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private group tour, which means more flexibility and personal attention.

What is the price?
It costs approximately $525 per person, which covers private transport, all visits, and tastings.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where do the tours start?
The experience begins in Reims, with pickup included from your hotel.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s focused on wine and history, so it’s best suited for adults or older teens with an interest in Champagne. Not specifically designed for children.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot with flexible payment options—just keep in mind that some scheduling details depend on availability.

Final Thoughts

This private Champagne tour offers a solid, well-rounded experience for those eager to learn about the region’s most famous sparkling wine. The combination of visiting iconic houses, exploring the vineyards, and paying respects at Dom Pérignon’s tomb makes it a day packed with variety and interest.

The guides’ knowledge and the scenic drive through the rolling vineyards add a personal touch that elevates the trip beyond just tasting. While it’s on the pricier side, the private format, multiple tastings, and expert guidance justify the cost for dedicated wine lovers.

If you’re after a flexible, intimate, and informative Champagne adventure, this tour is a smart choice. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick tasting—they’re looking to understand, see, and taste the essence of Champagne in a day.

Remember, always plan ahead for lunch and check accessibility if needed. Cheers to a bubbly adventure in France!

You can check availability for your dates here: