Villers Sous Chatillon might be a small village, but it packs a big punch for wine enthusiasts. Tucked away in the Grand Est region of France, this quiet spot is a paradise for those eager to taste unique champagnes and learn about how they’re made. If you’re considering a visit, you’ll find that the tours here stand out for their focus on rare, atypical champagnes made without malolactic fermentation—something true connoisseurs will appreciate. We’re particularly fond of the VIP Experience for its personalized approach and exclusive access, which can turn a good visit into a memorable one. For a detailed look, check out the Heart of the Valley: Tasting of 4 Rare and Atypical Champagnes.
In this list, we explore three distinct experiences: from quick tastings perfect for a short stop, to more immersive estate tours, and finally to VIP outings with personalized guidance. Whether you’re a casual wine lover or a serious champagne collector, these options give you a taste of what Villers Sous Chatillon has to offer. Each tour showcases unique aspects of champagne production and features exclusive tastings you won’t find elsewhere.
1. Heart of the Valley: Tasting of 4 Rare and Atypical Champagnes
At number one on our list, this one-hour tasting offers a chance to sample four distinct champagnes that are both rare and atypical. The focus here is on champs without malolactic fermentation, which means the wines retain a sharper, more vibrant acidity. This makes for an interesting tasting experience, especially for those who want to understand how fermentation processes influence flavor.
The guided tasting ensures you’ll learn about each champagne’s unique characteristics, while actually tasting up to four glasses without the usual malolactic process. The intimate setting makes this ideal for a quick but enriching experience. While the price isn’t listed, the high rating of 5/5 from one review suggests it’s a quality choice for those interested in unusual champagnes. Perfect for a short visit or if you’re pressed for time but still want a genuine taste of the region’s innovation.
Bottom Line: A quick, engaging, and educational tasting for those curious about the nuances of champagne production, especially if you’re interested in non-standard fermentation methods.
2. Heart of the Valley: Tour of the Estate and Tasting of 4 champagnes
The second option offers a 1.5-hour guided estate tour paired with a tasting of four rare and atypical champagnes. This experience is perfect for those who want to go beyond just tasting and learn about the winemaking process firsthand. The estate’s focus on champagnes made without malolactic fermentation offers a distinctive profile, making this tour especially appealing to aficionados.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to meet the winemakers who are on-site every day. They’ll share insights about their craft, answer questions, and give you a more authentic look at how their champagne is made. The tour is described as authentic and enriching, making it suitable for travelers interested in the behind-the-scenes work of champagne production.
While the cost isn’t listed, the richer experience plus the chance to sample four different champagnes makes it a good value. This tour is especially recommended if you’re eager to combine education with tasting in an intimate, authentic setting.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those wanting a deeper understanding of the estate’s approach, with the chance to meet the people behind the bubbles.
3. Heart of the Valley: VIP Experience: Your personalized adventure!
For those seeking the ultimate champagne experience, the VIP Experience offers a two-hour, fully personalized tour guided by one of the owners, Sébastien or Guillaume. This is not your average tasting—here, you’ll dive into a tailored journey, meeting the winemaker and sharing in-depth knowledge about their wines. One of the highlights is tasting their flagship champagne, the 12-year-old Collection vintage, which is a rare treat.
This tour emphasizes exclusive access and a deep, immersive experience. You’ll enjoy a food and wine pairing during the tasting, elevating the experience from standard to special. The owners’ personal guidance makes this a memorable encounter, especially for collectors or dedicated champagne fans.
The price isn’t specified, but the two-hour duration and personal interaction suggest a premium experience. This tour is best suited for those who want to go beyond the usual tasting and really connect with the people and the process behind the champagne.
Bottom Line: For champagne lovers eager for a personalized, behind-the-scenes experience with a legendary vintage tasting, the VIP tour is unmatched.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your time availability, interest level, and budget. The tasting of 4 rare champagnes is perfect for a quick visit, especially if you’re passing through and want a taste of something unusual. The estate tour offers a nice balance of education and tasting, ideal if you want to see the production process and meet the winemakers. Meanwhile, the VIP experience is suited for serious aficionados or travelers celebrating a special occasion who want an exclusive, personalized immersion.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the VIP experience, which is limited by its very nature. Also, check the individual tour pages for up-to-date prices and availability, as some experiences might require reservations in advance.
The Sum Up
Villers Sous Chatillon offers a range of wine experiences that cater to different interests and schedules. The tasting of four rare champagnes is a quick and focused way to sample something truly unique. The estate tour provides insight into the craftsmanship behind the wines, while the VIP experience offers an intimate, tailored journey that can turn a good trip into an unforgettable memory.
For travelers eager to discover innovative champagnes made without malolactic fermentation or to meet passionate winemakers, these tours are an excellent choice. Whether you’re in town for a few hours or planning a dedicated wine trip, booking early and choosing the option that best fits your style will ensure a memorable champagne experience in Villers Sous Chatillon.
