Private Champagne Ruinart, Moet Chandon VIP Tour by Mercedes

If you’re dreaming of a day among France’s famous vineyards, this private Champagne tour from Paris could be just right. It promises a blend of luxury, expert-guided visits, and a taste of the region’s most renowned Champagne houses, all wrapped up in a comfortable, private vehicle. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on detailed descriptions and reviews, it offers an appealing way to elevate your Champagne experience beyond the usual.

What truly stands out about this trip are the personalized, private nature of the experience and the luxury transportation – no cramped buses or shared groups here. Plus, the guided cellar visits at both Moet & Chandon and Ruinart are highlights, giving a deeper understanding of Champagne production. On the flip side, some travelers have noted issues with communication or pacing, so it’s worth considering if you prefer a more relaxed, unhurried day. For those who love wine, history, and a touch of luxury, this trip should be appealing—but it’s definitely on the pricier side.

Key Points

• Luxury private transport ensures comfort and flexibility during the day.
• Guided cellar tours at Moet & Chandon and Ruinart reveal the secrets behind their Champagne-making.
• Tiered pricing options allow you to tailor the experience, from sampling vintage collections to more extensive tastings.
• The itinerary includes both classic Champagne house visits and a scenic visit to Hautvillers village, adding a lovely local touch.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Paris, making logistics hassle-free.
• While the price might seem high, it reflects the exclusivity and guided nature of the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Champagne Day Trip

This tour begins early, with a pickup from your Paris hotel around 7:30 AM. The ride to Champagne country takes about two hours, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the scenery—lush vineyards, rolling hills, and charming villages. The transportation is a Mercedes E220 or a private minivan, depending on your group size, which adds a layer of comfort and style that’s perfect for a special day out.

The Vineyard and Champagne House Tours

Once in Épernay, the tour kicks off with a guided visit to Moet et Chandon. Here, you’ll explore their famous underground cellars, where they store countless bottles of Champagne. The tasting options vary depending on your choice: you might opt for the “Grand Vintage” experience with two glasses, including a Blanc and a Rosé, or go for the more comprehensive “Moet Collection” with three cuvées. Many reviewers have noted that Moët is the world’s largest Champagne producer, and they open a bottle every second, which underscores the scale of this iconic house.

The guided cellar tour typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, providing insight into the Champagne-making process, with a chance to taste some of their finest offerings. One reviewer shared, “Every second one bottle of Moët and Chandon Champagne is being opened,” which emphasizes the sheer volume and expertise behind this brand.

Lunch and Scenic Stops

After the morning tasting, you’ll enjoy a traditional French lunch in Épernay at a local restaurant. This is a good break to relax and reflect on the morning’s tastings. Épernay itself is charming, and you’ll get a real feel for the Champagne capital of France.

Post-lunch, you’ll head to Hautvillers, a picturesque village famous for its vineyards and wine history. The visit includes a stop at the Abbey’s Church of Sindulphe, a peaceful spot with great historical significance. The tour also features a panoramic viewpoint offering stunning vistas over the vineyards and Marne River, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Ruinart Champagne House

Next, the focus shifts to Ruinart, the world’s first Champagne house established back in 1729. Their UNESCO-listed cellars are a must-see for Champagne lovers. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll explore the extensive underground tunnels and learn about the production process. Depending on your chosen experience, tastings differ: the “La Visite des Crayères” offers two cuvées, while the “Blanc Singulier” tasting includes three, featuring Blanc de Blancs and special editions.

Multiple reviews praise Ruinart for its impressive cellars and historical significance. One reviewer remarked that the tour provided a great insight into Champagne craftsmanship, emphasizing the expert guidance.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Reims and the Cathedral

The tour wraps up with a visit to Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned for centuries. While this stop is self-guided, it’s a chance to admire the stunning Gothic architecture and historical grandeur. The 30-minute visit adds a cultural dimension to your Champagne day.

Return Journey and Overall Duration

The return journey to Paris is about two hours, giving you a chance to unwind and perhaps chat about the day’s highlights. You’ll arrive back at your hotel around 7:30 PM, completing a full 12.5-hour day of luxury, learning, and tasting.

Practicalities and Value

The price of $766 per person covers a lot: private transportation, all the cellar tours and tastings, and the scenic stops. For Champagne enthusiasts or anyone seeking a curated, high-end experience, this cost can be justified. You’re paying not only for the tastings but also for the convenience of a private vehicle and expert guidance, which many travelers find worthwhile.

That said, some reviews pointed out communication issues, particularly with the driver not speaking English. One traveler mentioned feeling rushed and having limited time at key stops, which highlights the importance of choosing a tour that matches your pace and expectations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to those who want a luxurious, hassle-free day with guided visits to top Champagne houses. If you’re a wine lover eager to learn more about Champagne production, the tiered tasting options make it easy to customize your experience. It’s also ideal if you prefer traveling in style and value comfort, as the Mercedes vehicle offers a smooth ride and hotel pickup.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more relaxing, unstructured day with more free time, this might not be the best fit. Also, keep in mind the potential communication issues if language barriers are a concern for you.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private Champagne tour offers a well-rounded, premium experience for those who want more than just a visit—they want an intimate, guided exploration of France’s most celebrated bubbly. The combination of luxury transport, expert-led cellar visits, and scenic stops makes for a memorable day out in the Champagne region. While the price might seem steep, you’re paying for exclusivity, comfort, and curated insights.

If you’re a serious Champagne fan or simply seeking a luxurious day trip from Paris, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate guided experiences, value comfort, and want to avoid the crowds. Just be prepared for a full day and potential scheduling tightness, and you’ll likely come away with a deeper appreciation for Champagne—and some fantastic photos.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes. The tour is private, accommodating groups of 2-7 people depending on your vehicle choice, ensuring a personalized experience.

What are the main highlights?
The guided cellar visits at Moet & Chandon and Ruinart, scenic stops in Hautvillers, and the visit to Reims Cathedral are the key highlights.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 12.5 hours, starting early in the morning and returning to Paris around 7:30 PM.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but a lunch stop is scheduled at a local restaurant. You might want to budget for additional food and drinks.

What types of tasting experiences are offered?
Options include tasting the “Grand Vintage,” “Moet Collection,” or “Blanc Singulier,” varying in the number of cuvées and the depth of tasting.

Is there a guide during the cellar visits?
Yes, the cellar visits are guided, providing insights into Champagne production. The chauffeur is responsible for transportation but not guiding.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

This tour is best for those who appreciate a seamless, guided, and luxury-focused way to discover Champagne. Whether for a special occasion or simply a desire to indulge, it’s a memorable way to toast to France’s favorite bubbly.

You can check availability for your dates here: