Champagne Private Tour Veuve Clicquot Tasting from Reims Epernay

If you’re dreaming of a day surrounded by vineyards, history, and bubbly, this private Champagne tour from Reims is a splendid choice. Designed for those who want a personalized, relaxed experience, it offers a thorough look at the region’s most iconic sights and tasting opportunities. With just your group and a guide, you’ll get the inside scoop on Champagne-making and enjoy some of the best bubbly France has to offer.

What we love about this tour? First, the fact that it’s completely private means you’ll have the guide’s full attention, making the experience more intimate and tailored to your interests. Second, the inclusion of a visit to Veuve Clicquot — a true legend in Champagne — offers insight into how innovation and tradition combine at one of the most famous houses.

One thing to consider is the price point, which is somewhat premium at $639.16 per person, but that reflects the private nature and quality of experiences. This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate cultural richness, excellent wine, and a flexible, more personalized day in the Champagne region. If you’re eager to see both iconic landmarks and hidden gems, this tour will suit you well.

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring an attentive guide.
• Cultural Immersion: Visit UNESCO-listed Reims Cathedral and Dom Perignon’s tomb.
• Expert Champagne Education: Learn about Champagne production from top houses to family estates.
• Authentic Tasting Experiences: Enjoy tastings at Veuve Clicquot and a family estate.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup, transport, and drop-off included.
• Great for History and Wine Lovers: Combines France’s royal and winemaking traditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Comfortable Pickup & First Impressions

The tour begins conveniently in Reims, where your private driver and guide will pick you up from your hotel or train station. The air-conditioned minivan provides plenty of space for up to 8 people, making it a cozy yet comfortable way to travel through the Champagne countryside. From the outset, the personalized nature of this private tour sets it apart, removing the formality common with larger group excursions.

The UNESCO-listed Reims Cathedral: A Royal Setting

Your first major stop is the Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Reims. This UNESCO World Heritage site has greeted French kings for nearly a thousand years — a fitting start for a day exploring royal history. Your guide will walk you through its impressive façade, stained glass windows, and the significance of its role in royal coronations. Expect to spend about 45 minutes here, soaking in the grandeur and learning about the cathedral’s importance in French history.

Veuve Clicquot: Champagne Innovation Personified

Next, you’ll visit Veuve Clicquot, where the focus shifts from history to sparkling wine craftsmanship. This visit lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how Veuve Clicquot revolutionized Champagne production, particularly with their pioneering methods and branding. The atmosphere at this renowned house is both elegant and lively, and your guide will share stories about Madame Clicquot’s bold leadership.

The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make all the difference. One guest remarked, “Our guide Pierre was a great guide. A local from Reims, he provided great insight to the region, and took us to not only the well known houses but some smaller family makers who had wonderful champagnes.” The experience at Veuve Clicquot isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding the craftsmanship and history behind the bubbles.

Lunch Break or Gourmet Champagne Lunch

Midday, you’ll have a chance to grab a regional meal, usually at your own expense. You can opt for a simple local cuisine or upgrade to a gourmet Champagne tasting lunch at a nearby family estate for an additional €100 per person. This option is popular among those who want their food and wine pairing experience to be more memorable. Imagine enjoying local dishes in the picturesque vineyard setting — a highlight for many.

Hautvillers: The Birthplace of Dom Perignon

Afternoon takes you to Hautvillers, a charming village famous as the birthplace of Dom Perignon, the monk often credited with pioneering Champagne. Visiting his tomb at the town’s abbey adds a layer of historic context. The reviews praise how knowledgeable guides enhance this part of the journey, with one traveler noting, “Our guide Pierre was delightful and attentive. He enhanced our wonderful champagne experience.”

Visiting a Family Estate

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to a local family estate — one that is representative of the region’s traditional practices passed down through generations. Here, you’ll enjoy a private tasting of their bubbly, often accompanied by stories about how family members maintain the age-old techniques. One guest described it as “a wonderful experience in a vineyard cave with great food cooked by Juliette,” giving you a taste of authentic, small-scale Champagne production.

End of the Day: Return & Reflection

After a full, engaging day, your guide will take you back to Reims, where the tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or station. The overall experience lasts about 8 hours, providing enough time to savor each stop without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Fully Private & Flexible

Unlike large group tours, this experience is designed solely for your party. That means your guide can tailor the conversation, spend extra time in areas you’re most interested in, and ensure a relaxed pace. This personal touch adds immense value, especially for those who want a more authentic and immersive experience.

Focus on Authenticity & Education

Multiple reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer shared, “Rafael was very informative on the history of the region,” emphasizing that the human element elevates this tour far beyond just tastings. You’ll leave not only with a collection of lovely wines but also with an understanding of the region’s history, culture, and craftsmanship.

High-Quality Visits & Tastings

The inclusion of Veuve Clicquot is significant because it’s one of the most recognizable Champagne houses, known for innovation. But the tour also emphasizes smaller family estates, giving a more rounded picture of Champagne production. Tasting at these estates often feels more intimate and genuine compared to larger, commercial wineries.

Value & Cost Considerations

At around $639 per person, this tour is a premium experience, but it’s packed with value: private transport, expert guiding, multiple high-profile visits, and tastings. For Champagne aficionados or those celebrating a special occasion, this adds up to an experience worth the investment.

Practical Details & Tips

• Transportation: Covered by a private air-conditioned minivan, making the entire day comfortable and hassle-free.
• Group Size: Max of 8 people, ensuring intimacy and personalized attention.
• Booking Advance: Most groups book about 40 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.
• Duration: Around 8 hours — enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
• Meals: Lunch is on your own unless you opt for the gourmet Champagne tasting lunch, which is highly recommended for a complete experience.
• Walking & Attire: Expect some walking, especially around the cathedral and village, so comfortable shoes and a jacket are advisable.
• Availability & Flexibility: Tour and tasting at Veuve Clicquot depends on availability, with possible substitutions at other great Champagne houses.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re a wine lover who appreciates understanding the craft behind your glass, this tour delivers. History buffs will enjoy the cathedral and Dom Perignon’s tomb, while those seeking a personalized, relaxed day in scenic vineyards will find this ideal. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind paying a bit more for exclusive access, private guides, and authentic experiences.

This tour is perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or anyone eager to combine cultural sightseeing with world-class Champagne tastings. If you prefer a structured, large-group experience, you might feel more comfortable elsewhere, but for those wanting a tailored day, this hits the right notes.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, your private driver and air-conditioned minivan are included for the entire day, making traveling between sites stress-free.

Can I customize the tour? The tour is designed as a private experience, so your guide can tailor the visit based on your interests — whether that’s more time at certain sites or specific wine tastes.

How long is the tour? It lasts about 8 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without rushing.

What’s the cost? It’s $639.16 per person, which covers private transport, guide, hotel/rail pickup, and tastings.

Are meals included? No, but you can opt for a Champagne tasting lunch at an additional cost, which is highly recommended.

What sites will we visit? You’ll explore Reims Cathedral, Veuve Clicquot, Hautvillers (Dom Perignon’s tomb), and a local family estate for tastings.

Is this suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, but comfortable shoes and a jacket are advised for walking and cellar visits.

Can I cancel? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

What if Veuve Clicquot isn’t available? The tour may include visits to other great Champagne houses if Veuve Clicquot is booked out or unavailable.

Final Thoughts

This private Champagne tour from Reims combines elegance, education, and authentic tasting experiences into a single day that’s both relaxing and enriching. The chance to visit iconic sites like the Reims Cathedral and Veuve Clicquot, along with a charming village and family estate, makes it a well-rounded introduction to the region’s history and craftsmanship. The personal attention from guides ensures you’ll leave with not only a collection of fine bubbles but also stories and insights you’ll remember long after the last sip.

Ideal for those who value a bespoke experience, this tour offers a glimpse into the heart of Champagne — its royal, artisanal, and family-run sides — all within a comfortable, well-organized package. Whether celebrating something special or simply indulging your curiosity, it’s a day worth savoring.