Paris: Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot Champagne Tour by Mercedes

Paris: Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot Champagne Tour by Mercedes

If you’re dreaming of sipping Champagne amid grand cellars and rolling vineyards, this full-day tour offers a taste of both history and luxury. Designed for lovers of fine bubbles and authentic experiences, this trip combines two of France’s most iconic Champagne houses—Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot—with a comfortable private transfer from Paris.

We love that this experience delivers guided cellar tours at two historic producers—Ruinart, the oldest Champagne house dating back to 1729, and Veuve Clicquot, established in 1772. Both visits include Grand Vintage Tastings, giving you the chance to savor multiple cuvées in a setting that’s steeped in tradition. Another highlight is the seamless transport in a luxury Mercedes, making the journey as comfortable as the tastings are delightful.

A possible consideration is the price tag—at $780 per person, it’s an investment, but one that includes most key experiences and private transport. Travelers who appreciate authentic, behind-the-scenes Champagne visits and prefer a curated, hassle-free day will find this tour well worth the cost. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, upscale experience without the fuss of organizing logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Exclusive visits to Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot with guided cellar tours
• Grand Vintage Tastings of premium Champagne cuvées included
• Luxury private transport in Mercedes E220 or minivan, with hotel pickup & drop-off
• Flexible experience options at Veuve Clicquot, from standard tastings to high-end vintages
• Historical and cultural highlights like Reims Cathedral and UNESCO-listed cellars
• Ideal for those seeking a luxury day trip that combines education, authentic Champagne history, and beautiful scenery

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

One of the biggest benefits of this tour is how it balances comfort with authenticity. We loved the way the day begins early, with a hotel pickup at 07:30, ensuring you beat some of the crowds and maximize your time in Champagne’s famous region. The two-hour scenic drive from Paris to Reims whisks you away from the city’s hustle into open landscapes dotted with vineyards—and fleetingly reminds you why this area is considered the world’s Champagne capital.

Ruinart’s cellars are a highlight. Established in 1729, this is the oldest Champagne house still in operation, and their underground cellars are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. During the guided tour, you’ll walk through historic chalk tunnels that have stored Champagne for nearly three centuries. The tasting here includes two glasses—perfect for appreciating the nuances of this historic house. We were told by guests that the guides are knowledgeable and passionate, explaining the Champagne-making process with clarity, even for those new to sparkling wine.

After the Ruinart visit, there’s a chance to enjoy lunch in Reims—either on your own or with a reservation arranged by the tour. Reims itself is a city layered with history, but the stunning Reims Cathedral is a must-see. You can explore at your own pace during a self-guided visit, taking in the beautiful Gothic architecture and learning about the French kings crowned here.

The afternoon kicks off with the Veuve Clicquot visit, where the scale of the operation impresses. Producing over 22 million bottles annually, Veuve Clicquot’s UNESCO-listed cellars are a sight to behold. The guided tour offers a deep dive into Champagne production and the house’s unique history.

Your Choice of Tasting Options at Veuve Clicquot

This is where the experience truly shines because you can select from several tiered tasting experiences. From a shorter, 1.5-hour tasting of four cuvées—like the Classic Brut Carte Jaune and Vintage Rosé 2015—to longer, more exclusive options such as the “L’art du vieillissement” tasting of vintage and aged Champagnes, the tour adapts to your interests and budget.

Guests rave about the quality of the tastings. One reviewer exclaimed, “Fantastic, really good, super recommended,” highlighting that the Champagne was memorable and the guides engaging. The premium options, including tasting La Grande Dame 2015 or tasting a Magnum of Brut Yellow Label, offer a more luxurious experience for those wanting to indulge a bit more.

The timing after Veuve Clicquot allows for a scenic drive back to Paris—around 2.5 hours—giving you a break and some downtime before the end of your day.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel in style and comfort in a Mercedes E220 business class for small groups or a Mercedes minivan for larger parties. This private transport means no worries about train schedules or shared buses—just a smooth ride between the sights. Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which is a real perk in Paris, saving you time and hassle.

The private group aspect ensures a more personalized experience. You’ll be with like-minded travelers, but not in a large, noisy tour bus. The focus on luxury and tailored visits means you’ll feel pampered without sacrificing the authenticity of your Champagne experience.

The Timing and Itinerary

The day’s schedule is carefully planned. The early departure ensures you arrive in Reims around 10 am, just in time for the first tour. After visiting Ruinart and enjoying tastings, there’s plenty of time to explore Reims or relax before heading to Veuve Clicquot in the afternoon. The overall duration of 11.5 hours makes it a full, rewarding day but still manageable, especially if you’re accustomed to early mornings and long outings.

Some may find the timing tight, especially if you want to linger longer in Reims, but the sequence of visits is logical and efficient. The inclusion of a rest stop during the drive helps break up the day comfortably.

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The Cost and Value

At $780 per person, this trip is a premium experience. When you consider the guided tours, tastings of several vintage and high-end Champagnes, private transport, and the convenience of hotel pickup, the value becomes clearer. You’re paying for an all-inclusive, curated day that would be difficult and time-consuming to organize independently.

The most significant value lies in the expert-guided cellar visits—a chance to see, smell, and taste Champagne in its historic environment, guided by those who know the stories and secrets behind each cuvée. Plus, the flexibility in tasting options allows you to tailor the experience to your interests and budget.

Authentic and Educational Experience

Beyond tasting, this tour aims to educate. You’ll learn about the Champagne production process, the history of these storied houses, and the unique qualities each Champagne offers. The guides are typically knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience both fun and informative.

Many travelers speak about the quality of the guides and the wine selection. One reviewer simply called it “fantastic,” praising the overall value and experience. Others appreciated the chance to try different vintages, especially the high-level tastings like “L’art du vieillissement,” which pairs well with wine enthusiasts wanting a deeper dive into Champagne aging.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for anyone with a genuine interest in fine Champagne, history, or luxury travel. It’s especially suited for those who want to skip the logistical headaches of organizing their own visits and prefer a curated, intimate experience.

While not ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, it suits couples, friends, or small groups of wine lovers looking for a memorable day away from Paris. If you’re after a luxurious, educational, and authentic Champagne outing, this trip will hit the mark.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from your Paris accommodation at 07:30, with transportation in a private Mercedes.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
You’ll visit Ruinart’s underground cellars, enjoy tastings of two glasses, explore Veuve Clicquot’s vast cellars and taste multiple cuvées, and see Reims Cathedral.

Can I choose different tastings at Veuve Clicquot?
Absolutely. Options range from a 1.5-hour comparative tasting to more exclusive experiences like “L’art du vieillissement,” lasting up to 4 hours.

How long does the whole tour last?
Approximately 11.5 hours, from early pickup to return to Paris around 7 pm.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years, mainly due to the length and nature of wine tastings.

What transportation is provided?
Luxury Mercedes E220 for small groups, or Mercedes minivan for larger groups, both private and comfortable.

What’s included in the price?
Guided cellar visits, tastings according to your chosen option, private transport, hotel pickup & drop-off, all fees and taxes, plus bottled water.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but you can explore Reims for lunch on your own or have a reservation made for you.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded, indulgent way to discover Champagne’s historic houses without the stress of planning. It’s perfect for those eager to learn about the nuances of Champagne production, taste a range of premium cuvées, and enjoy a luxurious day in the French countryside.

You can check availability for your dates here: