Food and Champagne Experience from Reims (Private full day tour)

Discovering the Champagne Region: A Detailed Look at the Full-Day Private Tour from Reims

Imagine spending a day wandering through the rolling vineyards of France’s most celebrated sparkling wine region, tasting top-tier Champagnes, and uncovering the secrets behind its famed bubbles. That’s exactly what the Food and Champagne Experience from Reims offers. As a well-rounded, private full-day tour, it’s designed for those eager to go beyond the typical tasting room and truly connect with the land, the people, and the craft of Champagne.

What we love most about this tour is the opportunity to visit family-owned vineyards—not just big commercial producers—and to enjoy interactive workshops that awaken your senses and deepen your understanding of Champagne. Plus, the journey through the UNESCO-listed hillsides of the Marne Valley adds a scenic backdrop that makes every sip even more meaningful.

A potential consideration is the price point of around $860 per person, which might seem steep, but for many travelers, the depth of access, personalized experience, and quality of tastings justify the expense. This tour is suited for those who appreciate authentic, wine-focused travel and are eager to explore the gourmet secrets of the Champagne region in a comfortable, private setting.

Key Points

• In-depth visits to three independent Champagne families, providing authentic insight into traditional production methods.
• Playful aroma workshops that enhance your tasting experience and help distinguish the region’s iconic grape varieties.
• Tasting over 15 Champagnes and regional spirits, paired with local gastronomic specialties, for a true flavor journey.
• Scenic drives through UNESCO-listed hillsides, with insightful commentary on the vineyards and land.
• Exclusive access to the famous Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, where the world’s most expensive bottles are stored.
• A flexible, private experience meaning your group can enjoy tailored attention and flexible scheduling.

Introduction: Why This Champagne Tour Stands Out

This private tour offers a chance to step into the world of Champagne-making beyond the commercial cellars. Instead of a generic visit, you get to explore family-run vineyards that have been producing bubbly for generations—places that truly embody the craftsmanship and passion of this craft. We especially appreciate the interactive aroma workshop, which turns tasting into a fun, educational activity, perfect for both wine novices and connoisseurs.

One of the best aspects is the personalized nature of the experience, with only your group participating. This means more time with guides, more intimate tastings, and the ability to ask questions that matter to you. The chance to walk through UNESCO-listed vineyards and see the most expensive avenue in the world—Epernay’s Avenue de Champagne—adds a touch of glamour to an already impressive day.

However, with the price tag, some travelers might want to compare this experience with other Champagne tours. It’s a premium way to see the region, but if you value authenticity, expert guidance, and a gourmet approach, this tour delivers excellent value.

This tour is ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and curious travelers who want a comprehensive, yet intimate look into Champagne’s landscape and its artisanal producers.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Scenic Drive from Reims to Epernay and the Montagne de Reims

Your day begins with a pickup in Reims around 9:30 am. The journey itself is part of the charm—traveling through the lush forests of the Montagne de Reims, a region designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The landscape offers picturesque views of vineyards and wooded hills, giving you a taste of the land that makes Champagne so special.

Stop 1: Mareuil-sur-Ay – The Heart of Pinot Noir

Your first stop is the village of Mareuil-sur-Ay, where a workshop and tastings take place in a renowned vineyard. Here, you’ll get to see and understand Champagne production on a more personal level. We loved the way this stop combines education and tasting, making the process tangible. A highlight is the explanation of the three main grape varieties—Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay—that define Champagne’s character.

Stop 2: Aÿ-Champagne – Exclusive Grand Cru Vineyards

Next, you’ll visit Aÿ-Champagne, one of the most famous villages for Grand Cru vineyards. Walking into the vineyard, you’ll gain insight into the work of the vine, the unique terroir, and what makes this region so revered. This stop emphasizes the significance of sustainable viticulture and traditional methods, giving you a grounded understanding of what goes into your glass.

Stop 3: Tasting Regional Spirits – Beyond Champagne

Along With Champagne, this tour highlights other regional alcoholic beverages like Ratafia, Fine de la Marne, and Marc de Champagne from the Goyard Distillery. Tasting these spirits adds depth to your experience—showing how local traditions extend beyond sparkling wine and giving you a broader palate of regional flavors.

Stop 4: Visit to Avize and the UNESCO Hillsides

In the morning, you’ll visit the hillsides of Avize—a UNESCO World Heritage site—featuring historic landscapes where Champagne has been cultivated for centuries. The views here are a reminder of how landscape and climate influence the character of Champagne wines.

Stop 5: Oger – The Chardonnay Village

In the afternoon, your focus shifts to Oger, a village renowned for its Chardonnay Grand Cru vineyards. You’ll meet a family of independent producers who have been crafting Champagne for generations. We loved the personal stories and hands-on tasting of their Grand Cru and Premier Cru offerings, which truly showcased the diversity of styles within Champagne.

Stop 6: Lunch with a Local Winemaker

A highlight is the lunch at a local winery, paired with Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes. The meal is more than just a break—it’s an immersive experience where you can ask about winemaking techniques, food pairing secrets, and the story of each producer.

Final stop: Epernay’s Avenue de Champagne

Your day concludes with a guided walk along Epernay’s famous avenue, home to lavish Champagne houses and grand cellar tunnels. The guide’s commentary sheds light on the history of Champagne production and the luxury associated with this avenue, often called the most expensive street in the world.

How the Experience Feels and What It Means for You

Throughout the day, the private nature of the tour ensures personalized attention. The small group setting makes it easy to ask questions and truly connect with your guide, whose knowledge elevates the experience. The tastings of 15+ different wines and spirits are carefully curated and paired with regional foods, making each stop a gastronomic adventure.

We appreciated the playful aroma workshops, which make the tasting process more interactive and fun, even for those new to wine. The more than 15 flavors you’ll encounter awaken your palate and foster a deeper appreciation for the complexity of Champagne.

The scenic drives through UNESCO-listed vineyards add a sense of place, giving you tangible context for what makes Champagne unique. The visit to Epernay’s avenue, with its storied cellars, offers a glamorous end to an enriching day.

Authenticity is a key strength of this tour—visiting family-run vineyards rather than commercial conglomerates means you get a genuine glimpse into the artisanal craft behind every bottle.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

At nearly $860 per person, this tour is an investment. But consider what’s included: multiple vineyard visits, tastings of over 15 wines and spirits, gourmet lunch, guided commentary, and private transportation. The exclusivity and depth of the experience justify the cost for many wine enthusiasts or those seeking a luxury, immersive day.

Compared to other Champagne experiences, which might focus on just a couple of tastings or be in larger groups, this tour offers a personalized journey with ample opportunity for learning and tasting. For travelers who want to understand the craftsmanship, terroir, and gastronomy of Champagne in a relaxed, intimate setting, this experience delivers excellent value.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is perfect for serious wine lovers, foodies, or anyone looking to indulge in an authentic Champagne experience. If you’re interested in family-run wineries and want to avoid commercialized tours, you’ll find this very rewarding. It’s also well-suited for couples, small groups, or travelers who prefer a private, flexible schedule.

Because it combines scenic drives, educational stops, tastings, and regional cuisine, it’s a comprehensive way to appreciate not just the drink but the land and tradition behind Champagne. If you’re a curious traveler eager for a depth of knowledge and a flavorful journey, this tour hits all the marks.

The Sum Up

This private full-day tour from Reims offers a rich, authentic look at the Champagne region—perfect for those who want to go beyond the standard tourist experience. With visits to family wineries, interactive workshops, and tastings of over 15 wines and spirits, it’s a comprehensive introduction to Champagne’s art and terroir.

The scenic drives through UNESCO-listed vineyards and the chance to walk along Epernay’s grand avenue only enhance the sense of occasion. The personalized attention and gourmet lunch make it feel like a true indulgence, but the depth of knowledge and genuine encounters with producers make it an educational experience, too.

This tour is especially valuable for wine connoisseurs or travelers who want a gourmet, behind-the-scenes look at Champagne. If you’re willing to invest in a premium experience that combines culture, history, and exquisite flavors, this tour will leave you with lasting memories—and a new appreciation for the bubbles.

FAQs

What is included in the price of $860.86 per person?
The price covers the private transportation, visits to three family-owned vineyards, over 15 tastings of Champagne and regional spirits, a gourmet lunch, and guided commentary throughout the day.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts between 7 to 8 hours, starting around 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point in Reims.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention and a tailored experience.

Are meals and tastings included?
Yes, the tour includes a gourmet lunch with regional dishes and 15+ tastings of Champagne, aperitifs, and spirits. Tastings are paired with local products for an authentic flavor experience.

What is the group size?
Since it’s a private tour, the group size depends on your booking—typically small, intimate groups for a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is pickup offered at my hotel?
Pickup is available, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation logistics.

This private Champagne tour from Reims combines the best of land, flavors, and tradition in a way that’s both educational and indulgent. If you’re passionate about wine or looking for an authentic taste of France’s sparkling jewel, this experience is well worth considering.