Reims: Veuve Clicquot and Family-Run Winery Day Tour & Lunch

Thinking about a trip to the Champagne region and wondering how to make the most of it? This tour promises a full day of tasting, sightseeing, and learning, blending the glamour of big Champagne houses with the charm of smaller family wineries. We’ve looked into what travelers are saying and what this experience offers so you can decide if it suits your style.

One thing we love about this tour is the chance to step inside the iconic Veuve Clicquot cellars, tasting four different cuvées—an absolute highlight for any bubbly lover. Another plus is the intimate group size, which really allows for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. That said, a potential downside is the price point, which might seem steep for some, but the value is in the detailed experiences, tastings, and delicious lunch you get.

This trip works best for those genuinely interested in Champagne, whether you’re a curious newbie or a seasoned sipper. If you’re craving a well-organized, immersive day with a good guide and a mix of big names and hidden gems, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Balance of big and small: Tour includes a visit to the famous Veuve Clicquot and a cozy family-run winery, providing a well-rounded perspective.
• Educational and fun: You’ll learn about Champagne tasting in a lively, engaging way, perfect for those wanting to understand more about this iconic drink.
• Scenic stops: The tour includes a stroll through Hautvillers and picturesque vineyards, ideal for photos and soaking in views.
• Tastings galore: Expect a total of 9 Champagne tastings throughout the day, showcasing a variety of styles and producers.
• Delicious lunch: The meal at a family-owned estate is a real highlight, offering pairing with Champagne and local flavors.
• Flexible and convenient: With pick-up options in Reims or Epernay and small group sizes, the experience feels intimate and well-paced.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

This tour offers a well-crafted peek into the Champagne world, balancing grand names with local charm. It kicks off either in Epernay or Reims, depending on your preference, and transitions smoothly between stops. The transportation is by air-conditioned minivan, making the day comfortable even if you’re not used to long drives.

Visiting Veuve Clicquot

The visit to Veuve Clicquot is undoubtedly a highlight. The guided tour through their cellars is both informative and impressive. You get to see where the magic happens, learn about their history, and end with a tasting of four different cuvées. They sometimes substitute other prestigious Champagne houses if Veuve Clicquot isn’t available, but the experience is always top-tier.

The reviews consistently praise the guides, with many mentioning how knowledgeable and friendly they are. As George from the UK noted, “Excellent programme with a mixture of large champagne house, family vineyards, wonderfully informative tour guide.” It’s clear that a good guide can turn a standard tour into something memorable.

Exploring Hautvillers

After the champagne house, you’ll walk through Hautvillers, a charming village where Dom Pérignon is buried. The views from the village are stunning, with vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. The walk is a chance to soak in the landscape and take some great photos, especially from the viewpoint. Several reviews, like Addy from Spain, mention that this was a favorite part, emphasizing the breathtaking vistas and the historic charm.

The Family-Run Winery

Visiting a small, family-owned Champagne estate provides a contrast to the larger houses. Here, you’ll see their unique approach to winemaking and get an insider view of the process. The experience is described as personal and authentic, giving you a feel for the passion and craftsmanship that often goes into smaller producers.

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Lunch and Tastings

The meal at the family estate is more than just sustenance; it’s a highlight of the day. The lunch is described as delightful, with some reviews mentioning the excellent pairing with Champagne and even accommodating dietary restrictions if advised in advance. The combination of good food, local wine, and a friendly setting offers a relaxed break halfway through the tour.

The Educational Element

One of the tour’s strengths is the fun and quick introduction to Champagne tasting. The guide’s engaging approach makes it accessible, whether you’re new to bubbly or already familiar. Several reviews highlight this aspect as being both informative and enjoyable, helping everyone appreciate what makes Champagne special.

Duration, Group Size, and Cost

The full-day experience lasts around 7.5 hours, with pick-up starting early in the morning. The small group size (limited to 8) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere. The price of $386 per person is on the higher end, but considering the inclusions—9 tastings, private visits, lunch, and guided insights—it offers good value. Many travelers feel the quality and depth of the experience justify the cost.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If your idea of a perfect day involves exploring both iconic and boutique Champagne houses, tasting a variety of Champagne styles, and enjoying beautiful vineyard views, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who appreciate good food and a relaxed, guided experience.

Since it isn’t suitable for children under 10, it’s better suited for adults or older teens interested in wine. The pace is laid-back but thorough, making it a nice choice for anyone wanting a stress-free, immersive day in Champagne.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book trains early: The tour begins either in Reims or Epernay, so securing train tickets in advance is recommended to get the best fares and ensure your spot.
• Dress warmly for the cellars: The cellars are cool, around 10°C, so bring a jacket.
• Dietary needs: Mention any allergies or restrictions when booking—it’s no problem to accommodate most needs for the lunch.
• Arrive on time: The tour relies on punctuality, especially since it covers several stops.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transport is by air-conditioned minivan, with pick-up and drop-off at designated locations in Reims or Epernay.

How many Champagne tastings are there?
You’ll enjoy nine tastings throughout the day, including visits to big names like Veuve Clicquot and a family-run estate.

Can I customize dietary restrictions for lunch?
Yes, dietary needs and allergies can be accommodated if you mention them when booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults; children under 10 are not recommended.

What should I wear to the cellar visits?
Bring a jacket, as the cellars stay cool, around 10°C.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, starting early in the morning and ending mid-afternoon.

Final Thoughts

This tour in Reims offers a wonderful blend of fame and intimacy, perfect for anyone eager to learn about Champagne and taste some of the best on offer. The combination of a renowned house like Veuve Clicquot, a charming village visit, and a cozy family-run winery creates a well-rounded experience. The small group size, expert guides, and delicious lunch make it feel personal and special.

While the price might seem high, many feel the quality of the visits, tastings, and overall experience makes it worthwhile. If you’re after a relaxed, insightful, and enjoyable day in Champagne, this tour checks most boxes—and then some.

Whether you’re a Champagne novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this experience will deepen your appreciation for this iconic wine and give you memories to cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: