Reims: Moët & Chandon and Family-Run Winery Day Tour & Lunch

If you’re considering a day trip to the Champagne region from Reims or Épernay, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines the glamour of the big houses with the charm of smaller, family-run estates. We’ve gone through the details to give you a clear picture of what to expect—and if it’s a good fit for your trip.

Two things really stand out about this tour: the chance to visit the iconic Moët & Chandon with a knowledgeable House Ambassador and the authentic, personal experience at a family estate, where you’ll taste three different cuvées. Plus, the scenic drive along Avenue de Champagne and a lovely traditional lunch paired with Champagne make it a full, satisfying day.

A possible consideration? It’s not designed for children under 18 (since it involves tastings and certain cellar access), so families with young kids might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re a wine enthusiast, a couple seeking a deeper dive into Champagne’s world, or simply someone curious about the region, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Who this tour suits best? It’s ideal for adults who appreciate good wine, enjoy learning from passionate guides, and want a taste of both the legendary and the lesser-known producers. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a small, intimate group experience over large, bus-based tours.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Champagne experience with visits to both a major house and a family-run estate
• Expert-guided tours providing insights into Champagne production and history
• Tastings of multiple cuvées, offering variety and a real sense of craftsmanship
• Scenic drives along iconic Champagne routes with commentary that enriches the landscape
• Authentic local lunch, perfectly paired with Champagne, adding cultural depth
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Breakdown of Your Day

This tour is a thoughtful blend of history, craftsmanship, and scenic beauty, all wrapped up in an approximately 6-7 hour experience. It kicks off in Reims or Épernay (depending on your booking) with a comfortable minivan ride through the Champagne region. The first highlight is an exclusive visit to Moët & Chandon, where a House Ambassador guides you through their historic cellars and production process. Expect at least two refined Champagne tastings here—enough to start your journey into the world of Champagne without feeling overwhelmed.

The drive along the famous Avenue de Champagne is a highlight in itself. This stretch is lined with grand Champagne houses and lush vineyards, and your guide will share insights about the region’s history and significance. It’s a chance to savor the views and get a sense of the scale and glamour associated with Champagne production.

The Authentic Family-Run Estate

After the big-name experience, the tour takes a more personal turn with a visit to a small, family-run estate. Here, you’ll have the chance to taste three different cuvées—a real treat for those who love to compare styles and flavors. This part of the tour offers a more intimate look at Champagne-making, often with stories from the family about their traditions and passion for their craft.

One reviewer raved about this experience: “Great tour guide, great food and informative visits. Enjoyed the food pairing,” highlighting how these smaller producers often bring more personality to their tastings.

Exploring Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon

No visit to Champagne is complete without a stop in the picturesque village of Hautvillers. This charming spot is famous as the home of Dom Pérignon and is perfect for a quick photo stop. The village’s narrow streets, stone houses, and the church where Dom Pérignon is laid to rest make it a lovely pause in your day.

While access to the church may be limited at times, the village itself is worth wandering around. As one guest noted, “the scenery was beautiful,” which is a gentle reminder that part of the charm here is just soaking in the atmosphere.

The Lunch and Final Tastings

The tour wraps up with a traditional local lunch, thoughtfully paired with Champagne. This isn’t just a quick bite—it’s a genuine experience that reflects regional culinary traditions, with the added bonus of Champagne to elevate the flavors. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed this aspect, which balances the educational visits with a delightful taste of local culture.

In the afternoon, the tour concludes with three tastings at another small estate, providing further insight into the diversity of Champagne styles and craftsmanship. The relaxed, small-group setting makes it easy to ask questions and really absorb the experience.

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Logistics and Practical Tips

Starting early in Reims or Épernay, the tour lasts around 6 to 7 hours, so be sure to plan your train connections accordingly—allow for about 10-15 minutes of buffer time at the end. The group is limited to 8 participants, which keeps things intimate and engaging.

Comfortable shoes are a must—there can be stairs down into cellars, and walking around village streets might involve cobblestones. The cellars are consistently around 11°C, so a light jacket is advisable even in summer.

The tour is priced as good value considering the multiple visits, tastings, lunch, and scenic drives. Reviewers often mention that it feels like a rich experience for the price, especially with the personalized attention from guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

Guests consistently praise the guides for their expertise and approachable manner. “Tom was an excellent guide. Very knowledgeable and took us at our pace,” one reviewer shared, highlighting how guides make or break the experience. Many also appreciated the variety of tastings—some enjoyed over nine different champagnes—and the opportunity to learn about both the big houses and smaller producers.

The comments also reveal how well-balanced the day is: “The scenery was beautiful, the food was amazing, and the visits were very informative,” said another guest. It’s clear that this tour manages to combine education, scenery, and tasting without feeling rushed or superficial.

Final Thoughts

This Champagne tour from Reims and Épernay offers a thoughtful mix of luxury and authenticity. The inclusion of a major house visit with a knowledgeable ambassador, combined with an intimate look at a family producer, makes it ideal for those who want a deep dive into Champagne’s world. The scenic drives and regional lunch add a cultural layer that rounds out the day.

If you’re someone who appreciates quality wine, enjoys learning from passionate guides, and prefers smaller groups for a more personal experience, this tour could be perfect. It’s a chance to sip some of the best Champagne, see beautiful landscapes, and discover stories behind the bottles.

While it’s not geared towards children and requires some walking and stair climbing, for adults seeking a well-organized, genuine tour—this one delivers on many fronts.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 since it involves tastings and cellar visits that require age restrictions.

What is included in the tastings?
You’ll enjoy a minimum of two tastings at Moët & Chandon and three at the family-run estate, giving you a good variety of Champagnes to savor.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 6 to 7 hours, from departure in the morning until late afternoon.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in Reims at the Tourist Office in front of the train station, or in Épernay at the Tourist Office on Avenue de Champagne, depending on your booking.

Is food provided?
Yes, a traditional local lunch paired with Champagne is included, offering regional flavors and a relaxed dining experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential due to walking and possible stairs in the cellars. Bring a light jacket for cellar visits, as the temperature is around 11°C.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is it a private tour?
No, it’s a small group tour limited to 8 people, ensuring a cozy and personalized experience.

This tour is a solid choice for anyone wanting to explore Champagne beyond the touristy façade, with insightful guides, quality tastings, and a good mix of major and local producers. It’s a chance to enjoy the region’s beauty, history, and craftsmanship without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Perfect for wine lovers or curious travelers eager to see what makes Champagne so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: