Moet et Chandon Veuve Clicquot Pommery Private Champagne

Planning a trip to France and craving that quintessential Champagne experience? This private tour from Paris is designed for those who want to explore the legendary houses, enjoy tastings, and soak in the vineyard views without the fuss of self-driving or crowded group tours. It’s a full-day adventure that promises a taste of luxury — with some notable pros and a few things to consider before booking.

What we love about this experience is the personalized touch — a private Mercedes ride with hotel pickup makes it feel special from the start. Plus, the guided visits at Moët et Chandon and Veuve Clicquot mean you get insightful, behind-the-scenes looks that elevate the tasting experience. On the flip side, a common concern from past travelers has been the tight schedule, which can feel rushed if you’re hoping to linger longer at each site.

This tour will suit those who appreciate good wine, enjoy scenic drives, and want a comprehensive day in Champagne without the hassle of organizing transport and entries. If you’re traveling from Paris and want an easy, all-inclusive day with a focus on the major Champagne houses, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: Private Mercedes transport with hotel pickup and drop-off adds a touch of luxury and eases logistics.
• In-Depth Visits: Guided tours at Moët et Chandon and Veuve Clicquot provide behind-the-scenes insights and tastings.
• Historical & Scenic Stops: Visit Hautvillers, Dom Perignon’s village, and enjoy panoramic vineyard views.
• Flexible Options: Different tasting experiences at each house cater to varied preferences and budgets.
• Value for the Price: At around $743, this is a premium experience, but it includes transportation, multiple tastings, and key sights.
• Slight Rushing: The schedule is packed, so you might feel a bit hurried if you love lingering at each spot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of What to Expect

Early Morning Departure and Scenic Drive

Your day kicks off around 7:30 am with hotel pickup in Paris. The two-hour drive to Champagne is smooth, thanks to the private Mercedes, which makes a big difference if you’re tired of uncomfortable bus rides. The route offers charming views of vineyards and rolling hills — perfect for those who love seeing France’s countryside in style. There’s a quick rest stop, so you can stretch your legs and grab a coffee if needed.

Moët et Chandon: The World’s Largest Champagne House

Arriving in Épernay around 10 am, your first stop is Moët et Chandon, the biggest Champagne producer globally. You’ll love the way the guided tour takes you deep into the cellars, where the bottles age in impressive tunnels. The experience lasts about an hour and a half, with options depending on your selected package:

• L’Impérial (up to 19 people): Tasting of Moët Impérial and Rosé Impérial.
• Signature (up to 15 people): Includes Moët Vintage alongside the above.

Moët is famous for opening about half a million bottles daily, so you’ll get a sense of the scale and craft behind the brand. Past visitors mention that Moët’s tour is both informative and visually stunning, and the tasting of two glasses offers a perfect introduction to their range.

Lunch in Épernay

Next, around 12 pm, it’s time for lunch in Épernay itself. Known as the Champagne capital of France, this town is a delight for your senses — charming streets, lovely cafes, and a chance to enjoy local specialties. While the tour doesn’t include a dedicated meal, many guests appreciate having time to relax and savor regional food before heading out again.

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Hautvillers: Dom Perignon’s Village & Panoramic Views

The journey continues with a 10-minute drive to Hautvillers, the village where Dom Pérignon, the monk credited with shaping Champagne production, once lived. You’ll visit the Abbey’s Church of Saint-Sindulphe and get a quick look at the vineyards from a viewpoint — ideal for photos and taking in the lush landscape. The visit is short but meaningful, especially if you want to feel connected to Champagne’s roots.

Pommery: UNESCO Listed Cellars & Tasting

Around 2 pm, you arrive at Pommery, famed for its impressive underground cellars listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The audio-guided tour lasts about 45 minutes, giving you a chance to explore the historic tunnels and learn about Pommery’s legacy. You’ll get to enjoy one glass of Champagne during the tasting, which is a good way to contrast with earlier experiences.

Visitors have noted that the Pommery tour is enjoyable, but some feel that fewer tastings or longer visits would improve the experience. Still, the stunning underground architecture and the chance to see a UNESCO site make this a highlight.

Veuve Clicquot: A Legend in the Making

A quick five-minute drive brings you to Veuve Clicquot, a household name. Here, the guided tour of the cellars lasts about 1.5 hours and offers insights into the history since 1772. Veuve Clicquot produces over 22 million bottles annually, and the tour covers their production process, history, and iconic yellow label.

You get to choose between two options:
– Carte Jaune: Guided cellar tour with a tasting of their Brut Carte Jaune.
– Rose Assemblage: Includes a rosé and Brut Yellow Label tasting, along with cheese and charcuterie.

Guests have praised Veuve Clicquot for its engaging guides and the chance to see such a large-scale operation. The tasting is well-paced, and the combination of history and production details make this visit particularly satisfying for wine lovers.

Reims Cathedral & Final Drive Back to Paris

The last major stop is Reims Cathedral, where you can enjoy a self-guided visit to see where French kings were crowned. The tour lasts about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to soak in the architecture and history.

Afterward, the group departs around 6 pm for the two-hour drive back to Paris, arriving around 8:30 pm. The return journey wraps up a long but rewarding day. Past travelers note that the driver was friendly and professional, though some found that the trip felt rushed — especially if you love lingering over each house or exploring more.

Practical Details & What It Means for You

Transportation & Group Size

Travel is in a luxurious Mercedes E220 or minivan, depending on your group size. That means comfort and space, especially after a full day of touring. The private group setup ensures a more tailored experience, with a driver who understands the schedule but who isn’t a guide himself. If you want a guide for commentary, you can book that separately for an added cost.

Price & Value

At $743 per person, the tour isn’t cheap. But it covers transportation, all entrance fees, tastings, and the scenic drives. For serious Champagne enthusiasts or those wanting a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience, many find the cost justified. Others might feel it’s a bit on the pricier side for the limited time spent at each house or wish for more personalized attention.

Timing & Pacing

The schedule is tight, with little room for extra stops or extended tasting sessions. Some reviews mention feeling rushed — especially at Pommery or the cathedral — so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might not be your ideal tour. Still, if you’re eager to see everything and taste the highlights, it works well.

Overall Experience

Most visitors rave about how informative and enjoyable the guided tours are, and the fact that it’s a private experience makes it stand out. The scenic drive through vineyards and the chance to visit historic villages adds depth beyond just tasting wine. However, those expecting a deep dive into Champagne production might find the time a bit limited.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who values comfort, convenience, and comprehensive visits to top Champagne houses, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one day trip without the stress of arranging transport or tickets. The experience is especially suited to those who appreciate guided insights and enjoy exploring both the commercial and historic sides of Champagne.

However, if you prefer a slower pace, more time at each house, or a more interactive approach, you might want to look for a smaller or more flexible alternative. Also, if your main goal is to learn about the entire manufacturing process in detail, this tour offers highlights but might leave you wanting more detailed info.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks (besides the tastings) are not included. You’ll have some time for lunch in Épernay, but the tour itself does not cover meals.

Can I choose different tastings?
Yes, at Veuve Clicquot and Moët, you can opt for different experiences depending on your preferences and budget. The options range from a single glass to a more elaborate tasting with cheese and charcuterie.

What if I want to book a guide for more information?
A live guide is available for an extra cost, which can be booked in advance. The standard tour includes a driver but not an in-depth guide.

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts about 13 hours, from pickup at your hotel in Paris to return late evening.

Is it suitable for children?
The tour isn’t recommended for children under 6 years old. It’s geared towards adult wine lovers and history buffs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are best, especially since you’ll be walking through cellars and villages. Bring a jacket for cellar visits, as they tend to be cool.

Final Thoughts

This private Champagne trip offers a well-rounded peek into some of the most famous houses in the region, combined with scenic drives and historic sites. It’s ideal for those who want a luxurious, guided day trip from Paris without the logistical hassle. While the schedule is packed, most guests leave feeling they’ve gained valuable insights and enjoyed some of the finest Champagne the region offers. If you’re after a special day out with wine, culture, and comfort, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

That said, if you crave more personalized attention, more time at each stop, or a less hurried experience, it’s worth considering other options. But for those who want a reliable, rundown of Champagne in style, this tour delivers a lot of what you’d hope for.

You can check availability for your dates here: