For the champagne enthusiast seeking an exclusive, tailored experience in the heart of Champagne, France, the Ruinart tour offers an unparalleled opportunity. Meticulously planned with private transportation and expert guidance, this tour promises an immersive exploration of the prestigious Ruinart house, renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines. With flexible itineraries and personalized service, participants can explore the rich heritage and exquisite flavors that have made Champagne a global icon. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this tour promises to elevate your appreciation for the art of champagne-making in a way that few other experiences can.
This experience made our list of the 6 Best Tours In Champagne.
Key Points
- Custom-planned Champagne tour with private transportation options, including sedan (up to 3) or minivan (up to 7).
- Tour includes expert planning, reservations, and English-language presentations at houses and vineyards.
- Pricing starts at €1,195 for groups of up to 3, covering private transportation and other services.
- Tour operates Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5:30 PM, with flexible scheduling and pickup options.
- Tour not suitable for individuals with heart problems, serious medical conditions, or pregnant travelers, and is not wheelchair accessible.
Tour Overview
The Champagne Enthusiast Tour offers a custom-planned experience in Champagne, France. Guests can choose private transportation, either a sedan for up to 3 people or a minivan for up to 7.
The tour includes expert planning, reservations, and itineraries, with presentations at houses and vineyards in English. Pickup is available between Reims and Epernay, and Paris pickup is offered for an additional fee.
Train tickets to Champagne are included. The tour operates Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, and confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability. Itineraries can be flexible based on local conditions.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Champagne.
Pricing and Budget
Visit and tasting fees for the Champagne Enthusiast Tour start at 185€ per person.
Lunch budget and preferences are required, though the total tour cost begins at €1,195 for a group of up to 3 guests.
The pricing covers private transportation, either a sedan for up to 3 people or a minivan for up to 7, as well as expert planning, reservations, and itineraries.
All tour you will enjoy presentations at the houses and vineyards, which are conducted in English.
Flexibility is built into the schedule, as itineraries may change based on local conditions.
Pickup and Transportation
For the Champagne Enthusiast Tour, pickup is available between Reims and Epernay. Paris pickup can also be arranged, but an additional fee applies.
The tour offers multiple pickup and drop-off locations to accommodate your convenience. Train tickets to Champagne are included in the package, ensuring a seamless transportation experience.
Whether you’re coming from nearby towns or a further destination, the tour makes it easy to access the Champagne region and explore its renowned vineyards and estates.
The flexible scheduling and pickup options cater to your preferences, allowing you to make the most of your Champagne exploration.
Schedule and Availability
The Champagne Enthusiast Tour operates Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Confirmation of the tour is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
Itineraries are flexible and may change based on local conditions. This allows the tour to adapt to the latest developments and ensure a seamless experience for guests.
The tour’s accessibility is limited, as it’s not suitable for individuals with heart problems, serious medical conditions, or pregnant travelers. Plus, children under 18 aren’t allowed, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
The tour is designed for group participation only, without a private tour format.
Participant Information
The Champagne Enthusiast Tour isn’t suitable for everyone. Individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions should avoid this experience. Pregnant travelers are also not recommended to participate.
Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children under 18 aren’t allowed. This is a group tour, so private tours aren’t available. Guests must be prepared to fully engage in the activities and tastings.
While the tour give you an enjoyable and educational experience, it’s crucial that participants consider their personal health and physical abilities before booking.
Visiting Ruinart Champagne House
With the necessary precautions in mind, guests can now explore the renowned Ruinart Champagne House, a highlight of the Champagne Enthusiast Tour.
Founded in 1729, Ruinart is the oldest surviving Champagne house and offers a captivating journey through its historic cellars. Guests will discover the intricate process of Champagne production, from the careful selection of grapes to the meticulous bottling and aging.
The knowledgeable guides provide insightful explanations, bringing to life the rich heritage and traditions of Ruinart.
After the tour, guests can savor the house’s exceptional Champagnes during an exclusive tasting experience, savoring the complexity and elegance that define the Ruinart style.
Tasting Ruinart’s Renowned Champagnes
Typically, guests begin their Ruinart tasting experience by sampling the house’s flagship Blanc de Blancs cuvée. This 100% Chardonnay champagne offers notes of white flowers, citrus, and minerality.
Next, they’ll explore the Rosé, a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that delights with its salmon-pink hue and red fruit flavors.
For a more complex profile, the Ruinart Millésimé vintage showcases the qualities of a specific harvest year.
Throughout the tasting, a Ruinart expert provides insights into the winemaking process and the history of this esteemed Champagne house.
Guests leave with a deeper appreciation for Ruinart’s exceptional champagnes.
Exploring Champagne’s Rich History
Champagne’s history stretches back centuries, revealing a region that has long been renowned for its exquisite sparkling wines.
Guests on the Champagne Enthusiast Tour will have the opportunity to explore this rich heritage, visiting historic vineyards and champagne houses that have played a pivotal role in the evolution of this iconic beverage.
From the earliest mentions of "the wine of kings" to the technological innovations that have shaped modern champagne production, the tour provides an immersive experience that brings the story of Champagne to life.
With expert guidance and carefully curated visits, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the traditions and expertise that define this celebrated wine region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Professional Photography Permitted During the Tour?
The tour does not specify whether professional photography is permitted. It’s best to check with the tour provider in advance to inquire about their policies on photography during the visits and tastings.
Can I Purchase Champagne Bottles During the Tour?
Yes, guests can purchase champagne bottles during the tour. The tour operator can assist with arranging bottle purchases at the vineyards and estates visited, allowing guests to take home a taste of the Champagne region.
Is There an Option for a Language Guide Other Than English?
The tour does not explicitly mention other language options besides English. However, visitors should inquire about the availability of guides or presentations in other languages when booking the tour, as the company may be able to accommodate special requests.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary Based on My Preferences?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized based on the customer’s preferences. The expert planning service includes working with the customer to create a tailored experience that meets their specific interests and needs.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 72 hours prior to the tour. Within 72 hours, there’s a 50% cancellation fee. No-shows or same-day cancellations incur the full tour cost. Flexible policies support changes or rescheduling subject to availability.
The Sum Up
The "Champagne Enthusiast Custom Planned Tour – Ruinart" offers an immersive experience for discerning wine lovers. With private transportation, expert planning, and curated tastings at the prestigious Ruinart house, participants can fully enjoy the rich heritage and exquisite flavors of Champagne. Seamless travel arrangements and personalized service ensure a memorable journey through one of the world’s most renowned wine regions.