Private day tour in Champagne

A Gentle Guide to a Private Champagne Day Trip in Reims

If you’re dreaming of exploring Champagne beyond the usual big-name houses, this private day tour from Reims promises a more personal look at the region’s vibrant wine scene. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, reviewing the details and feedback from travelers makes it clear that it’s a well-rounded experience promising intimate encounters with local producers, stunning scenery, and plenty of bubbles.

What really shines here are the personalized touches—door-to-door pickup, visits to small, independent producers, and a gourmet lunch cooked with Champagne. That personal aspect makes all the difference if you’re after a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at how Champagne is crafted.

A possible consideration? The price point is a bit on the higher side (around $700 per person), but given that it includes private transport, tastings, and a full day of tailored experiences, many find it good value—especially for those seeking exclusivity.

It’s best suited for wine lovers, curious travelers wanting a more authentic connection to Champagne’s artisans, or anyone celebrating a special occasion and wanting a luxurious, immersive day.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Smaller groups mean more one-on-one time with guides and producers.
• Diverse Champagne tasting: Sample at least seven different labels, including brut, rosé, and blanc.
• Behind-the-scenes access: Meet local winemakers and visit private cellars, not just the big brands.
• Stunning scenery: Drive across the mountain of Reims and enjoy beautiful vineyard views.
• Gourmet lunch included: Dishes cooked with Champagne, adding a culinary touch.
• Door-to-door service: Convenient pickup and drop-off from your Reims or Epernay hotel.

The Experience in Detail

Starting in Reims or Epernay – The tour kicks off with the comfort of being collected directly from your accommodation. This makes the whole day flow smoothly without the hassle of arranging transport—something many travelers appreciate. Once you’re on the move, your guide will explain the plan for the day, setting expectations and giving a quick overview of what’s ahead.

Vineyard visit and local producer meet-and-greet – The highlight for many is meeting a local winemaker in his cellar. Unlike tours that focus only on visiting large, commercial houses, this experience emphasizes the craft of smaller, independent producers. You get to see their private production sites and taste Champagne directly from the cellar, which adds an authentic, personal touch. One reviewer was especially taken by a 73-year-old producer sharing vintage Champagnes—an experience that felt both rare and genuine.

Tasting sessions – Expect to sample at least seven different Champagnes, including a variety of styles like brut, rosé, and blanc. The guide explains how to notice the distinct tastes and what makes each producer’s Champagne unique. Several reviews mention the quality of these tastings, with one guest noting they felt like they were learning a lot about the grapes and how production methods influence flavor.

Lunch in a traditional restaurant – The midday break is more than just a meal; it’s a proper gastronomic experience. The included lunch features dishes cooked in Champagne, paired with a Champagne aperitif. Guests often comment on the quality of the food and the chance to relax and chat with others while enjoying their bubbles.

Driving across the Reims mountain – As you leave the vineyards, you’ll drive through scenic areas, soaking in views of rolling hills and lush vineyards. The landscape itself adds to the experience, making the day not just about Champagne but also about appreciating the region’s natural beauty.

Customizable and private – The whole experience is tailored to your group, with exclusivity that larger tours can’t match. This privacy allows for a more relaxed, intimate day, and the guide’s expertise helps tailor the visit based on your interests.

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What Sets This Tour Apart?

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Stéphane, who is described as “an excellent local guide,” and the visits to small producers, which offer a more authentic, less commercialized look at Champagne making. One reviewer was particularly touched by the visit to a producer who shared vintage Champagnes from his cellar—showing the personal connection that makes this experience stand out.

Plus, the scenic drive across the mountain of Reims provides beautiful views, and the gourmet lunch cooked in Champagne ingredients adds a culinary dimension that many tours overlook.

While the price may seem steep, many feel the value comes from the exclusivity, personalized attention, and depth of experience. If you’re someone who appreciates tasting rarer Champagnes and learning from passionate, small-scale producers, this tour hits the spot.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour lasts around 7 hours, which is a good length to balance sightseeing and tasting without feeling rushed. The inclusion of private transport means you won’t have to worry about navigating the region, and pickups from Reims or Epernay make it easy to start your day without extra planning.

The tour includes 10 glasses of Champagne and a full lunch, so you’re well-fed and well-sipped throughout the day. The price of $700.99 per person reflects the private and tailored nature of this experience—something worth considering if you’re after a premium, exclusive tour.

Since the tour operates on a full refund cancellation policy if canceled 24 hours in advance, you can book with some peace of mind—important for those with flexible plans or uncertain schedules.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine connoisseurs or those wanting a deeper understanding of Champagne beyond the big brands. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate small, independent producers and want to see the craftsmanship up close.

If you’re celebrating something special or just enjoy a slow, relaxed exploration with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll find this tour rewarding. Keep in mind, it’s a private experience, so it suits travelers looking for exclusivity and tailored attention rather than large group tours.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The minimum drinking age is 18, so it’s geared toward adults. The experience focuses on wine tasting and visits to producers, which might not be as engaging for children.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 55 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, ensuring availability for this popular experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation by private vehicle is included, with door-to-door pickup and drop-off from your Reims or Epernay hotel.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Less notice means no refund.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at booking. You can specify dietary requirements in advance.

How many Champagnes will I taste?
You will sample no less than seven different Champagnes during the day, including various styles like brut, rosé, and blanc.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts about 7 hours, providing plenty of time for visits, tastings, and lunch without feeling overly long.

Are there any hidden costs?
All main components—tastings, lunch, transport—are included. There are no hidden extras unless you opt for additional purchases.

In the end, if you’re looking for an intimate, expert-led day exploring Champagne’s small producers, enjoying scenic drives and gourmet food, this private tour from Reims offers a rich, personalized experience. It’s best suited for those who value quality over quantity and seek a deeper connection to the region’s craft.