Champagne: Boutique Houses Tour with Restaurant (Private)

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Champagne beyond the crowded tourist spots, this private Boutique Houses Tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey into the region’s smaller, family-run champagne producers. It’s perfect for those who want a more intimate, behind-the-scenes glimpse of Champagne’s craftsmanship, paired with a gourmet lunch and private transport. While it’s not a cheap experience, the personalized attention and authentic visits make it well worth the price for true connoisseurs or anyone craving a richer connection to the region’s bubbly heritage.

What we love about this tour is its balanced blend of authenticity and comfort: you’ll visit two carefully selected boutique Champagne houses, enjoy a three-course gourmet lunch at a acclaimed local restaurant, and travel in a private Mercedes—no sharing with strangers. It’s a flexible, private experience, tailored to your schedule, with the convenience of pick-up and drop-off wherever you choose within Reims or Épernay.

One consideration is that the tour’s focus on boutique producers might mean fewer big-name Champagne brands, so if you’re expecting the grand halls of Moët or Veuve, this isn’t that. Instead, you’ll get a more personal story behind each producer, making it ideal for those who prefer depth over size. This experience suits couples, small groups, or wine aficionados eager for genuine encounters with Champagne’s small-scale artisans.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: A fully private tour with a dedicated guide and Mercedes, giving you flexibility and comfort.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to family-owned Champagne houses that reveal the secrets behind their prestigious cuvées.
• Gourmet Lunch Included: A 3-course meal at a highly regarded regional restaurant enhances the day.
• Flexible Pickup and Drop-Off: Services available at your hotel, train station, or other preferred locations within Champagne; Paris pickup is an option for an extra fee.
• Educational and Enjoyable: Guided explanations in English or French for a richer understanding of Champagne production.
• Time-Efficient: An 8-hour itinerary that balances visits, tastings, and relaxation—ideal for those with limited time but big appetites for discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Champagne Boutique Houses Tour

An Exclusive Private Journey

We start with the promise of this tour: a private Mercedes and a knowledgeable guide who chauffeurs you through the scenic Champagne countryside. This isn’t a big bus tour; it’s your personal adventure, with the guide acting as your storyteller and sommelier. The flexibility of pickup locations in Reims or Épernay ensures a smooth start, and the ability to adjust the starting time adds a helpful touch for tailored planning.

Two Champagne Houses: Personal Stories and Tasting Delights

The core of the experience is visiting two boutique Champagne houses. These are family-run estates or small producers, offering a more intimate look into Champagne-making.

During each visit, you’ll enjoy about 1.5 hours of tastings and explanations. The quotes from reviews highlight the value here: “The guide was very knowledgeable, explaining the production process clearly and passionately.” Expect to sample prestige cuvées that are not necessarily found in supermarkets, giving you a taste of true craftsmanship.

What’s special about these visits is the chance to see ancestral know-how and the passion of small producers, often sharing secret techniques and stories that big brands may not reveal. It’s a chance to learn what makes Champagne unique, from the vineyard to the cellar.

A Gourmet Lunch to Savor

After the first tasting, you’ll stop at a renowned local restaurant for a three-course meal. The included lunch is considered one of the best in the region, allowing you to refuel and enjoy regional flavors. Reviews mention the “delicious, carefully prepared dishes,” which complement the day’s bubbly perfectly. Since drinks during lunch aren’t included, you might want to bring some extra bubbly or enjoy local wines available at the restaurant.

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Final Champagne Tasting and Scenic Discovery

Post-lunch, you’ll visit a second boutique Champagne house, with another 1.5-hour tasting. This allows for comparison and deeper appreciation of the different styles and terroirs. Travelers often comment on how each house offers a distinct personality—some bold, some delicate.

The tour wraps up with convenient drop-offs in Reims or Épernay, closing a well-rounded, immersive day. If you’re coming from Paris, options for pickup and drop-off exist for an additional fee, making the journey seamless.

Transportation: Comfort Meets Ease

Traveling in a climate-controlled Mercedes means you’ll be comfortable regardless of season. The vehicle’s privacy and space make it easy to relax, chat, or review notes from the tastings. The private nature of this tour means fewer distractions and more personalized attention.

The Value in This Experience

While the cost might seem high, it’s important to consider what’s included: two boutique Champagne visits, a gourmet lunch, private transport, and a dedicated guide. The personal attention and quality of visits are a significant upgrade from group tours, offering both education and enjoyment.

Many reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise, noting how explanations made the process approachable and fascinating. This is especially valuable for those new to Champagne, but even aficionados appreciate the depth of insight.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value authentic storytelling and want to avoid the commercialized big brands. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a luxurious yet genuine Champagne experience. If you’re interested in small producers, gastronomy, and personalized service, this tour hits all those marks.

If you’re coming from Paris, it offers a relaxing escape into the countryside without the hassle of driving yourself. However, keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or babies under one year, due to the nature of tastings and the schedule.

Final Thoughts on the Champagne Boutique Houses Tour

This private tour offers an engaging, relaxed way to explore Champagne’s boutique producers. With personalized visits, a premium vehicle, and a sumptuous meal, it’s a well-rounded experience that combines education, flavor, and comfort. We loved how the guides brought each visit to life, sharing stories and secrets that large-scale tours often miss. The emphasis on family-owned estates means you’re getting a genuine window into Champagne’s soul.

While it’s a bit pricier than group excursions, the flexibility, privacy, and quality make it a worthwhile investment—especially if you’re passionate about wine and wish to enjoy Champagne in a more meaningful way. This tour is perfect for those seeking authentic encounters, tailored service, and a memorable day in the French countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or pregnant women?
No, it isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those who cannot consume alcohol, as tastings are part of the experience.

Can I customize the pickup time?
Yes, starting times are adjustable to suit your schedule, making the tour flexible.

What languages are available for the guided explanations?
Guided explanations are offered in English or French, depending on your preference.

How many people will be in my group?
This is a private tour, so your group is just your party, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are drinks during lunch included?
No, drinks and wine during lunch are not included, but you’re free to purchase them separately at the restaurant.

Where does the tour pick up and drop off?
Pick-up and drop-off are available at your hotel, B&B, or train station within Reims or Épernay. Pickup from Paris is an extra paid option.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including visits, lunch, and travel time.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to walk around the estates or vineyards.

This private Champagne boutique experience offers a genuine, comfortable, and engaging way to discover the region’s hidden gems. Whether you’re a budding oenophile or simply love fine bubbles and good food, it’s a day well spent in the heart of France’s most celebrated sparkling wine country.

You can check availability for your dates here: