Reims/Epernay: Private Moet & Chandon Winery Tour & Tastings

If you’re dreaming of exploring France’s Champagne region without the hassle of a big group or crowded tours, this private experience might be just what you’re looking for. It’s marketed as a full-day adventure, giving you a taste of both the grandeur of Moët & Chandon and the authentic charm of a family-run winery, plus a stroll through the village of Hautvillers.

What sets this tour apart? First, the personalized nature of the trip—your own guide and private vehicle make for a relaxed, tailored day. Second, the opportunity to experience multiple Champagne tastings and visit iconic spots like the Avenue de Champagne and Dom Perignon’s old stomping grounds.

That said, one thing to consider is the price—at over $1,000 per group, it’s a premium experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, intimate Champagne day without trying to do it all on their own or join a larger, more generic tour. If you’re a wine enthusiast or celebrating a special occasion, this could be a memorable splurge.

Key Points

• Private tour ensures a more personalized and flexible experience.
• Includes visits to Moët & Chandon and a local family estate, offering diverse perspectives.
• The tour features multiple Champagne tastings—great for connoisseurs or curious newcomers.
• You’ll explore Hautvillers, home to Dom Perignon’s monastery, adding historical flavor.
• The tour lasts about 8 hours, from pickup to drop-off, with ample time for sightseeing and tasting.
• The price reflects a luxury, all-inclusive experience, with hotel pickup and private guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What To Expect From This Champagne Adventure

This tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing, education, and tasting, and it’s clear that the providers aim to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the Champagne world. The day begins with a luxury vehicle pickup from your hotel or train station in Reims or Epernay, making the start smooth and comfortable.

A Scenic Drive and the Heart of Epernay

Within half an hour, you’ll arrive in Epernay, where the famous Avenue de Champagne stretches out as a showcase of the region’s luxurious heritage. We loved the way the guide shared stories about this street, lined with historic Champagne houses, giving us a sense of the area’s elegance and history. It’s a perfect spot for photos and to soak in the atmosphere of Champagne’s hub before heading to your first tasting.

Moët & Chandon: The Iconic Champagne House

The highlight for many is a guided tour of Moët & Chandon, one of the most recognizable names in Champagne. The tour lasts around 105 minutes, which is enough time to get a good look at the cellars, learn about the Champagne-making process, and appreciate the craftsmanship involved. The tasting at the end is a real treat—expect to sample some of the house’s finest.

However, a quick note from reviews: the Moët tour is subject to availability and may sometimes be replaced with another big-name Champagne house like G.H Mumm, Pommery, or De Castellane. This means your experience could vary slightly based on scheduling.

Lunch: A Break for Refueling

After the Moët experience, your guide will suggest some lunch options, and you’ll have around 1.5 hours to enjoy a meal at your own pace. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, this free time allows you to choose a local restaurant or café. We’d recommend booking ahead if you have specific tastes or want to try local specialties—they’re often paired well with Champagne here.

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Discover an Authentic, Family-Run Winery

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a visit to a local family estate winery. This part of the experience is especially valuable if you want to see a more personal side of Champagne production. With only 4,400 family estates in the region, many offer outstanding quality, and the guided tasting provides insights you won’t find at the larger houses.

Guests have mentioned that this part of the tour felt authentic—a contrast to the grandeur of Moët, but equally rewarding. The tasting here is another highlight, giving you a chance to try Champagnes that are lesser-known but highly regarded.

The Village of Hautvillers and Dom Perignon

The last stop takes you to Hautvillers, a quaint village famous for being the home of Dom Perignon, the monk credited with improving Champagne quality in the 17th century. The guide’s explanation of the history, combined with a walk through the village, helps round out your understanding of Champagne’s heritage.

The Scenic Drives and Timing

Throughout the day, the scenic drives are estimated at about 2 hours total, giving you glimpses of the rolling vineyards and charming villages. These moments are perfect for unwinding and enjoying the countryside views. The entire trip is carefully planned so that you spend ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

The Logistics and Practical Details

At just over 8 hours, this is a full day but not overwhelming. The private group setting ensures you won’t be part of a noisy crowd, and the luxury van makes for a comfortable ride. Pickups are available from Reims or Epernay, and at the end of the day, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or train station.

The tour is offered in English, and the provider has a high rating of 4.7, indicating generally positive reviews. The cost includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided tours, and tastings at both Moët & Chandon and the family estate.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to budget separately for lunch and additional drinks or personal expenses. The tour doesn’t include extra purchases, so if you fall in love with a particular Champagne, you’ll pay retail prices. Still, the included tastings are generous and give a good sense of what each house offers.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $1,087 for a private group, this experience isn’t cheap, but it’s quite comprehensive. The value lies in the personalized attention, the variety of Champagne tasted, and the insider visits. If you’re someone who appreciates good Champagne and prefers a custom, intimate experience over large tours, you’ll likely find this a worthwhile splurge.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This is ideal for couples or small groups celebrating something special, wine enthusiasts, or travelers seeking a luxury, educational day in Champagne. It’s especially suited if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the region at a relaxed pace. Keep in mind, if you’re traveling with children or looking for a family-friendly activity, this might not be the best fit, as the focus is on mature tastings and adult experiences.

Final Thoughts

This private Champagne tour offers a curated look into one of France’s most beloved regions, combining the glamour of Moët & Chandon with the authenticity of a family estate and the charm of Hautvillers. The personalized approach, detailed visits, and multiple tastings make it a compelling choice for those wanting more than just a surface-level experience.

While the price tag is on the higher side, the comfort, flexibility, and depth of the experience can make it worth it—especially if you’re celebrating or simply love Champagne culture. It’s a perfect way to turn a day in France into a memorable, wine-filled adventure that feels tailored just for you.

FAQ

Can I choose which Champagne house I visit?
The tour includes a visit to Moët & Chandon, but it’s subject to availability. If not, it may be replaced by another renowned Champagne house like G.H Mumm, Pommery, or De Castellane.

Is this tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. The guide explains the Champagne-making process, and tastings are designed to be accessible for all levels, making it a good introduction for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.

How long are the Champagne tastings?
The Moët & Chandon tour includes a tasting at the end of a 105-minute guided visit. The local winery visit also includes a tasting, though the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s part of the overall 8-hour experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the wineries and Hautvillers. A face mask or protective covering might be advisable, depending on current health guidelines.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. The guide will suggest options, and you have about 1.5 hours of free time to choose your own meal.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private experience, you might be able to discuss additional preferences with the provider, but the itinerary is generally set to ensure a balanced day.

What’s the best way to get to the region?
Pickup is included from your hotel or train station in Reims or Epernay, making this tour accessible if you’re already based in these cities.

If you’re looking to enjoy Champagne with a touch of exclusivity and expert guidance, this tour could be just the thing. It balances luxury with authenticity, offering a full day packed with sights, stories, and of course—champagne.

You can check availability for your dates here: