Explore Epernay and the enchanting Champagne countryside on an afternoon excursion. Journey along the Avenue de Champagne, visit the picturesque Dom Pérignon village of Hautvillers, immerse yourself in the history of a renowned vineyard, and experience the warmth of two charming family-operated wineries.
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Highlights
- Taste local wines at 2 family-run wineries
- Visit Hautvillers village & Dom Pérignon’s church
- Enjoy UNESCO Champagne vineyard views
- Cruise Avenue de Champagne, Epernay, estate sights
Description
Immerse yourself in the world of Champagne as you embark on a tour from Reims. Delve into the heart of boutique, family-run wineries where you’ll partake in Champagne tastings that engage your senses and reveal the secrets behind its production. Travel in comfort within an air-conditioned van as you journey through picturesque countryside and make your way to the enchanting village of Hautvillers.
Your adventure begins at 2:00 pm, meeting your knowledgeable local guide in front of the Reims Centre train station’s tourist office. Set off on an afternoon of exploration, driving through the serene countryside before arriving at a family-run winery.
Here, you’ll be taken through the traditional press and tank room, learning firsthand about the time-honored methods of Champagne production. Your guide will make these methods come to life with vivid explanations. Delight in sampling their exquisite Champagnes during several tasting sessions, gaining invaluable insights into the art of tasting and savoring these exceptional beverages.
Continuing your journey, you’ll cruise along the renowned Champagne Avenue in Epernay, the vibrant Champagne capital. Take in the grandeur of prestigious estates like Pol Roger, Perrier Jouët, Moët & Chandon, and Boizel that line this iconic avenue.
Pause for a moment in the vineyard, where breathtaking vistas of UNESCO-designated Champagne vines unfold before you. Absorb knowledge about the unique terroir that imparts distinct characteristics to these wines. Your next stop is Hautvillers, the very birthplace of Champagne. Explore the village and pay a visit to the church, the resting place of the famed monk Dom Pérignon.
Concluding your tour, you’ll visit another family-run winery, offering the opportunity to taste and compare different “cuvées.” With a day filled with enriching experiences and cherished memories, your guide will drop you off between 6:30 pm and 7:00 pm at the Reims central train station’s tourist office.
What the Customers are Saying
Stand-out Aspects/Common Themes of this tour’s Guest Reviews:
- Knowledgeable and Personable Guides:
- Tour guides were highly knowledgeable about champagne and the region.
- Guides were friendly, approachable, and accommodating.
- Guides had a deep understanding of the wine-making process.
- Excellent Champagne Tastings:
- Guests consistently praised the quality of champagne tastings.
- Visits to both large and small champagne houses provided a diverse tasting experience.
- No obligation to purchase champagne was appreciated.
- Small Group Experience:
- Limited group size (often 8 people) allowed for personalized attention.
- Interactions with guides and winemakers were more intimate.
- Flexibility and Adaptability:
- Guides were quick to adapt to unexpected situations, such as closed venues, ensuring a seamless experience.
- Flexibility in the itinerary to accommodate guest preferences and requests.
- Scenic and Informative Tour:
- Guests enjoyed picturesque vineyard landscapes and the opportunity to learn about wine production.
- Guides provided historical and cultural insights into the region.
- Multilingual Guides:
- Guides had a good command of English, making the tour accessible to non-French-speaking guests.
- Guides often acted as translators when necessary.
- Overall Enjoyment and Recommendation:
- High overall satisfaction and enthusiasm, with many guests giving the tour a perfect rating (e.g., 10/10).
- Guests appreciated the combination of winery visits, nature, and local sights.
- Many guests expressed a newfound appreciation for champagne production.
- Timeliness and Organization:
- Guests mentioned the tour being well-organized and starting on time.
- Clear instructions and communication from the tour company were appreciated.
- Cultural and Personal Insights:
- Guides shared cultural and local knowledge, enhancing the overall experience.
- Some guests received additional advice about French culture and history.
- Positive Interactions with Guides:
- Guides were commended for being approachable, friendly, and humorous.
- Guides ensured that guests from different backgrounds enjoyed the tour together.
These themes collectively showcase the tour’s excellence in terms of guides’ expertise, quality tastings, personalized experiences, flexibility, and the overall enjoyment of exploring the Champagne region.