Reims: Small-Group Champagne Tour With Champagne Tastings and Lunch

Exploring the renowned Champagne region is an opportunity to take in a rich heritage. This small-group tour of Reims promises an intimate encounter with the area’s prestigious Champagne houses and historical landmarks. Visitors will traverse the prestigious ‘Avenue de Champagne,’ uncover the birthplace of Champagne, and explore the intricate process behind the iconic beverage. With guided tastings and a regional lunch, the tour offers a comprehensive experience that caters to Champagne enthusiasts and novices alike. Whether seeking to expand one’s knowledge or simply indulge in the region’s renowned libations, this tour presents a chance to discover the captivating essence of Champagne.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Wine Tours In Reims.

Key Points

• This small-group tour in Reims offers an in-depth exploration of the Champagne region, including visits to renowned Champagne houses, a tasting class, and a regional lunch.
• Participants will discover the historic village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne, and learn about the pioneering work of Dom Pérignon.
• The tour includes a guided tasting of various Champagne styles, allowing visitors to develop a deeper appreciation for the complexities of this sparkling wine.
• Travelers will have the opportunity to participate in a hands-on Champagne blending workshop, gaining insights into the art of Champagne production.
• The tour provides air-conditioned transportation, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and a personalized experience with a small group of up to 8 participants.

Explore the Champagne Region

The tour begins with a journey along Epernay’s ‘Avenue de Champagne’, where visitors marvel at the impressive mansions and headquarters of renowned Champagne houses.

Next, the group travels to the historical village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne and the final resting place of Dom Pérignon. Here, guests learn about the influential monk’s pioneering work in the Champagne-making process.

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to explore the roots of this iconic French beverage. By visiting these iconic locations, travelers gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich heritage and traditions that underpin the Champagne region’s global reputation.

Discover Epernay’s ‘Avenue De Champagne’

As the tour begins, visitors explore Epernay’s renowned ‘Avenue de Champagne’, where they marvel at the impressive mansions and headquarters of the world’s most famous Champagne houses.

Lining the avenue are iconic brands such as:

• Moët & Chandon
• Mercier
• Perrier-Jouët
• Pol Roger

Along this prestigious street, guests learn about the rich history and prestigious status of these prestigious Champagne producers. They admire the beautiful Belle Epoque architecture and imagine the glamour and celebrations that have taken place within these hallowed walls over the centuries.

This iconic avenue sets the stage for the immersive Champagne experience that lies ahead.

Visit the Village of Hautvillers

Next, visitors journey to the historical village of Hautvillers, where they discover the legacy of Dom Pérignon, the legendary Benedictine monk credited with pioneering the Champagne-making process.

Nestled in the heart of the Champagne region, this quaint village offers a glimpse into the origins of the renowned sparkling wine. Visitors stroll through Hautvillers’ cobblestone streets, passing by charming houses and the Abbey of Saint-Pierre, where Dom Pérignon is buried.

They learn about his innovative techniques and his contribution to the development of Champagne. The tour also includes a visit to the village’s stunning viewpoints, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills that characterize this picturesque corner of France.

Learn the Champagne-Making Process

After exploring the historic village of Hautvillers, the tour moves on to educate visitors about the intricate Champagne-making process. At a dedicated tasting class, knowledgeable guides walk participants through the various stages of crafting the renowned sparkling wine, from grape harvesting to the complex methods of fermentation and aging. Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and tradition behind each bottle of Champagne.

The Champagne-making process involves:

1. Carefully selecting and pressing the grapes to extract the juice.

2. Initiating the first fermentation to convert the grape sugars into alcohol.

3. Blending the base wines and then bottling them with yeast and sugar for the second fermentation.

4. Aging the bottled wine for a minimum of 15 months to develop the signature Champagne bubbles and flavors.

Taste Champagnes at a Winery

The tour then takes visitors to a family-run winery, where they’ve the opportunity to sample a variety of Champagnes and learn more about the nuances of the region’s renowned sparkling wines.

During the Champagne workshop, guests will be guided through a tasting of several Champagne styles, from delicate blanc de blancs to richer rosé varieties. The expert host explains the unique characteristics of each wine, discussing factors like grape composition, aging process, and production methods that contribute to the Champagne’s distinct flavor profiles.

This hands-on experience allows participants to develop a deeper appreciation for the complexities of true Champagne, directly from the source in the heart of the renowned region.

Enjoy a Champagne Workshop

Following the tasting at the family-run winery, guests embark on a Champagne workshop that offers a hands-on exploration of the region’s renowned sparkling wines.

The workshop includes:

1. A guided demonstration on the traditional Champagne-making method, including the critical steps of pressing, fermentation, and riddling.
2. An opportunity to blend and create their own unique Champagne blend, tailoring the flavor profile to their personal preferences.

Guests are also provided with:

3. Insights into the art of Champagne tasting, with expert guidance on identifying the distinctive aromas and flavors.
4. A chance to learn about the terroir and the significance of the Champagne region’s climate and soil in producing world-class sparkling wines.

This interactive experience allows guests to gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of Champagne production.

Savor a Regional Lunch

Guests then savor a delicious lunch of regional Champagne-country specialties, served at a typical Champagne house. The lunch features Champagne pairings, allowing guests to further their appreciation for the local cuisine and world-famous bubbly. The menu includes a variety of dishes highlighting the bounty of the region.

Course	Dish	Wine Pairing
Starter	Duck Terrine with Pear Chutney	Brut Rosé
Main	Coq au Vin with Pommes Dauphine	Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs
Dessert	Tarte Tatin with Vanilla Ice Cream	Demi-Sec

The relaxed, convivial atmosphere of the Champagne house sets the perfect tone for savoring the flavors of the region.

Transportation and Logistics

For a hassle-free experience, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation throughout the day, with hotel pick-up and drop-off at the Reims train station.

The small-group format ensures personalized attention, with a maximum of 8 participants. This allows for a more intimate and flexible exploration of the Champagne region.

The tour also takes care of the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

Some key transportation and logistics details include:

1. Air-conditioned vehicle for the entire tour
2. Hotel pick-up and drop-off at the Reims train station
3. Small-group format with a maximum of 8 participants
4. Confirmation provided at the time of booking

This seamless transportation and logistics setup allows you to learn about the Champagne experience without any worries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for children, as it primarily focuses on the Champagne-making process and tasting. It’s likely best suited for adults interested in experiencing the region’s wine culture and cuisine.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Dietary Requirements?

The tour can be customized to accommodate special dietary requirements. Guests should inform the tour operator of any needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals, when booking. The tour provider will make the necessary arrangements.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. Customers should inquire about language options when booking the tour. The tour provider aims to accommodate guests’ needs and preferences to ensure an enjoyable experience.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The cancellation and refund policy typically allows full refunds up to 24 hours before the tour. Within 24 hours, there may be partial refunds or no refunds, depending on the tour operator’s policies. Guests should check the specific policy when booking.

Can the Tour Be Combined With Other Activities in the Region?

The tour can be combined with other activities in the Champagne region, such as visiting nearby villages, exploring historical sites, or engaging in additional wine tastings. Travelers should check with the tour provider for customization options.

Recap

This Champagne tour offers an immersive experience in the heart of the region. Guests will discover the prestigious Champagne houses, learn the production process, and savor tastings and a regional lunch.

The small-group format provides personalized attention, ensuring a memorable journey through Reims and Hautvillers. With seamless transportation and logistics, it’s an excellent way to explore the rich heritage and traditions of Champagne.