The Must-Sees 3h30 From Epernay (Private Half Day Champagne Tour)

Eager to explore the heart of Champagne? This 3h30 private half-day tour from Epernay won’t disappoint. You’ll discover the birthplace of champagne in Hautvillers, savor premier and grand cru blends at family-owned houses, and stroll the prestigious Avenue de Champagne. But there’s more – this bespoke experience also promises to unveil the region’s rich heritage, from the burial site of Dom Pérignon to breathtaking vineyard vistas. With a private guide and chauffeur, you’re in for an intimate journey tailored to your interests. Where will this enchanting tour take you next?

Key Points

• Explore the prestigious Champagne houses and vineyards along the renowned Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, the Champagne capital.
• Visit the charming village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne, and pay respects at the church where Dom Pérignon is buried.
• Discover the unique terroir and production methods of Aÿ-Champagne, a Grand Cru village, through guided tastings at a family-owned production site.
• Enjoy an immersive tasting experience of Premier and Grand Cru Champagnes, as well as local Champagne-based spirits like Ratafia and Fine.
• Opt for a personalized private tour with flexible pickup options within a 6 km radius of Epernay for a hassle-free and tailored exploration of Champagne’s heritage.

Exploring Epernay’s Champagne Capital

What better way to experience the heart of Champagne than a private tour through Epernay’s vibrant town center?

As the capital of the region, Epernay is home to prestigious Champagne houses lining the renowned Avenue de Champagne. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through this iconic street, revealing the stories behind the grand mansions and immaculate vineyards.

Explore the charming village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne, and visit the church where the legendary Dom Pérignon made his mark.

Savor the crisp, effervescent flavors of Champagne during tastings at a family-owned Grand Cru estate, capping off an immersive exploration of this celebrated wine region.

Discovering Hautvillers, Birthplace of Champagne

After exploring the vibrant town center of Epernay, the private Champagne tour now takes you to Hautvillers, the hallowed birthplace of this effervescent beverage.

Here, you’ll:

1. Visit the church where the legendary Dom Pérignon is buried, the Benedictine monk who’s credited with perfecting the Champagne production process.
2. Stroll through the charming village streets, admiring the historic architecture.
3. Venture into a family-owned Champagne house for a guided tasting of their acclaimed Grand Cru and Premier Cru offerings.
4. Soak in the stunning views of the verdant vineyards that blanket the gentle slopes surrounding Hautvillers.

This intimate journey into the origins of Champagne promises to be a highlight of your day.

Visiting Aÿ-Champagne’s Grand Cru Village

Next, the private Champagne tour takes guests to the prestigious Grand Cru village of Aÿ-Champagne.

Here, they’ll visit a family-owned production site for guided tastings. The tour allows travelers to discover the unique terroir and production methods that give Aÿ-Champagne its coveted Grand Cru status.

Guests will sample the family’s expertly crafted Champagnes, along with Ratafia, Fine, and Marc, offering a comprehensive tasting experience.

This stop provides an intimate glimpse into the traditions and expertise of a local Champagne house, complementing the earlier visit to the historic birthplace of Champagne in Hautvillers.

Tasting Premier and Grand Cru Champagnes

The tour provides guests with the opportunity to taste a selection of premier and grand cru Champagnes.

Visitors will sample:

1. A classic Brut Champagne, often a blend of three grapes – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.

2. A vintage Champagne, aged for a minimum of 3 years to develop complexity and depth.

3. A prestige cuvée, the winery’s top-of-the-line offering with intense flavors and mouthfeel.

4. An additional tasting of Ratafia, Fine, and Marc – unique local aperitif and digestif products.

These tastings offer an immersive experience, allowing guests to explore the nuances and diversity of exceptional Champagne.

Experiencing Additional Champagne Specialties

Along With the premier and grand cru Champagne tastings, the tour offers guests the chance to sample unique local aperitifs and digestifs.

You’ll get to try Ratafia, a Champagne-based liqueur infused with local fruits, as well as Fine, a clear, aromatic brandy made from the region’s wine grapes.

For a real treat, you’ll also taste the robust Marc de Champagne – a powerful pomace brandy that’s a specialty of the area.

These additional tastings provide a well-rounded exploration of Champagne’s diverse and fascinating spirits, complementing the premier Champagne experience.

Personalized Private Tour With Guide/Chauffeur

Embarking on this private Champagne tour offers a truly personalized experience, as guests are accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and private chauffeur throughout the day.

The tour includes:

1. Guided visits to prestigious Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards and family-owned production sites for intimate tastings.
2. Opportunities to sample Champagne specialties like Ratafia, Fine, and Marc.
3. Flexible pickup options and transportation within a 6 km radius of Epernay.
4. A chance to explore the charming streets of Epernay and marvel at the iconic Avenue de Champagne.

This bespoke tour promises an immersive and memorable exploration of the Champagne region’s rich heritage and world-renowned winemaking traditions.

Flexible Pickup and Meeting Arrangements

With flexible pickup options or meeting points available, guests can easily access the private Champagne tour from within a 6 km radius of Epernay. This ensures a personalized experience as the guide/chauffeur will pick up travelers at their desired location.

If the group exceeds 3 people, the vehicle may change based on weather conditions, so the company recommends confirming the pickup perimeter.

Guests should contact the tour provider if they need clarification on the pickup location, as the experience is designed to be hassle-free and convenient for all participants.

Tour Accessibility and Cancellation Policy

Confirmation is provided upon booking the private Champagne tour, ensuring guests have all the necessary details.

This experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s conveniently located near public transportation.

It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate.

And if you need to cancel, you can do so for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Here’s a quick recap of the tour accessibility and policies:

1. Confirmation received at booking
2. Near public transportation; not wheelchair accessible
3. Private tour; only your group participates
4. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts

Since You Asked

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions, but guests should notify the provider in advance. They’ll work to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone, whether it’s avoiding certain foods or providing alternative options during the tastings.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for this Champagne tour, but guests should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. As it involves visiting wineries, smart casual attire is generally recommended to feel at ease during the tastings and tour.

What Happens if the Weather Is Inclement?

If the weather is inclement, the vehicle may change based on the group size. Guests won’t have to worry – the tour operator will ensure a comfortable experience regardless of the weather conditions.

Can I Take Photos During the Tastings?

You’re welcome to take photos during the champagne tastings. The guide encourages it to capture the experience. Just be mindful not to disrupt the tasting or interfere with others. Feel free to snap away and share your special Champagne memories.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges?

There are no additional fees or charges for this tour. The price includes all tastings, transportation, and a private guide. Guests can enjoy the experience without any unexpected costs.

The Sum Up

This private Champagne tour from Epernay promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of the region. Savor premier and grand cru Champagnes, explore historic villages, and learn about the rich heritage of this iconic French wine. With a personalized experience and flexible arrangements, it’s the perfect way to discover the magic of Champagne.