The Connoisseurs from Epernay (Private Half day Champagne Tour)
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The Connoisseurs from Epernay (Private Half day Champagne Tour)

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(59 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Near Epernay, Capital of the Champagne vineyard, discovery of the "Côte des Blancs" Grand Cru and the famous village and vineyard of Hautvillers in the historic hillsides of the Marne Valley listed as World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

In Hautvillers, village called the “Cradle of Champagne”, guided tour of the church of Dom Pérignon and the vineyard.

Pause at the most beautiful viewpoint of Champagne in the heart of the vineyard with explanations of viticulture management.

Visit the production sites of two families of independent producers/growers followed by commented tastings of a selection of 6 Champagnes Grand Cru/Premier Cru, as well as the essential Champagne alcohols and aperitifs during additional tastings.

Discovery tour of the "Côte des Blancs", famous area for its Grand Cru Chardonnay 100% Blanc de Blancs.

Commented passage through the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, called "the most expensive Avenue in the World" with its 200 million bottles in the cellars.

Available options

The Connoisseurs from Epernay (Private Tour)

Morning schedule

Afternoon schedule

What's included

Private transportation
Visits and tastings of 6 Champagnes Grand Cru/Premier Cru
Additional tastings of the 3 essential Champagne alcohols and aperitifs (Ratafia, Fine, Marc)
Pick up in the perimeter of 6kms (3.7 miles) around Epernay
Private passionate Guide/Chauffeur

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

In Hautvillers, village called the “Cradle of Champagne”, enjoy a private tour of the Church where the grave of Dom Pérignon, known as the spiritual father of Champagne, is.

We will tell you his story and you will finally know whether or not he is the inventor of Champagne !

2
Stop 2

In Hautvillers, we will also stop in the historical hillsides of Champagne listed as Word Heritage Site by Unesco to enjoy the most magnificent panorama of Champagne overlooking the Marne Valley, the place where Dom Pérignon carried out his experiments in winemaking.
It is the ideal place in the heart of the vineyards to take unforgettable photos of you and this breathtaking landscape.

We will visit the first of the 2 families of independent producers/growers that you will discover during your tour with explanations on the Champagne making process, visit of the presses, wineries and cellars.

You will taste there, during a commented tasting, 3 different GrandCru/Premier Cru Champagnes*.

*depending on the season and availability, this visit/tastings may take place in a village of the "Côte des Blancs" or in Aÿ-Champagne.

3

During your discovery tour in the "Côte des Blancs", we will go through Cramant which is one of the famous villages Grand cru located south of Epernay.

This area in Champagne is called the "Kingdom of Chardonnay Grand Cru".

We will also pass through other famous villages such as Chouilly and Avize, in front of the largest champagne bottles factory and near the famous "Chateau de Saran", the ultra private property where the luxury LVMH group (who owns Moët & Chandon, Dom Pérignon, Veuve Clicquot, Ruinart, Krug ...) receives its biggest customers and VIPs as well as the "Montaigu site" dedicated to the champagne making of Moët & Chandon.

4

Oger is another renowned Grand Cru village in "Côte des Blancs" with the famous "Blanc de Blancs" 100% Chardonnay Grand Cru.

This is where we will visit one of the 2 families of independent producers/growers of the tour with other explanations on the Champagne making process, visit to the presses, wineries and cellars.

You will taste 3 100% Grand Cru Champagnes with tasting advice to discover the different "Blanc de Blancs" such as natural Champagne without dosage, extra brut, from old vines, vintage or even aged in oak barrels.

5

We will cross in Epernay, the Capital of the Champagne vineyard, the "Avenue de Champagne" , a must-see Champagne UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is considered "the most expensive Avenue in the world" with its prestigious Champagne houses, its mansions and its 100 kilometers of cellars which hide 200 million bottles.

A commented passage is planned to explain the history of its superb mansions and production buildings belonging for centuries to the Champagne Houses like Moët & Chandon, Perrier Jouët, Pol Roger, etc.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7
28 reviews
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0
1★
1
Tripadvisor 4.9
31 reviews
5★
29
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In front of Epernay train station (near city center).

Important notes

ENGLISH
If you have any problems, please always contact the guide on the number we have given you by message. If you wish to contact him/her on the day of your visit, please use Whatsapp.

Please note that the number on this voucher is not that of the guide, but that of the company manager :
- Isabelle (owner of the tour company) : +33 6 20 33 21 44
- Office number : +33 6 11 67 69 32 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)

FRANCAIS
En cas de problème, merci de toujours joindre le numéro du guide que nous vous avons communiqué. Si vous souhaitez le/la contacter le jour de votre visite, merci d'utiliser de préférence Whatsapp.

Attention, le numéro sur ce voucher n'est pas celui du guide, mais celui de la gérante de l'entreprise:
- Isabelle (gérante) : +33 6 20 33 21 44
- Téléphone Bureau : +33 6 11 67 69 32 (Lundi au samedi, de 9h à 17h)

About Epernay

Epernay is the heart of the Champagne region, renowned for its world-famous sparkling wine. The city is home to the Avenue de Champagne, a prestigious boulevard lined with historic champagne houses. Visitors can explore stunning vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and discover the rich history of champagne production.

Top Attractions

Avenue de Champagne

This prestigious boulevard is lined with historic champagne houses, including Moët & Chandon, Mercier, and de Castellane. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for champagne enthusiasts.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Free to walk, tastings vary

Moët & Chandon

One of the most famous champagne houses in the world, offering guided tours of its cellars and wine tastings.

Cultural/Wine 1-2 hours €25-€50

Champagne Mercier

A historic champagne house with impressive cellars and a unique wine tasting experience.

Cultural/Wine 1-2 hours €20-€40

Château de Boursault

A beautiful castle with a rich history, offering stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and champagne production facilities.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €15-€30

Musée de la Vigne et du Vin de Champagne

A museum dedicated to the history of champagne, with exhibits on vine cultivation, wine production, and the cultural significance of champagne.

Museum 1-2 hours €8-€12

Must-Try Local Dishes

Champagne

The region's most famous export, a sparkling wine made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes.

Drink Contains sulfites, not suitable for those with alcohol allergies

Blanquette de Veau

A traditional French dish made with veal, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, often paired with champagne.

Main Course Contains dairy and gluten

Jambon Persillé

A cold dish made with diced ham, pickles, and a creamy mustard sauce, served with crusty bread.

Appetizer Contains dairy and gluten

Tarte au Sucre

A traditional Champagne dessert made with a sweet pastry crust, sugar, and butter.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking in the vineyards Biking through the countryside Hot air balloon rides Wine tasting Spa visits Picnicking in the vineyards Visiting champagne houses Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours and pleasant weather. It's ideal for outdoor activities and wine tours.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: French
  • Widely spoken: English, German, Spanish
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Epernay is a generally safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
  • • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night

Getting there

By air
  • Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport • 150 km
  • Paris Beauvais-Tillé Airport • 200 km
By train

Epernay Station

By bus

Epernay Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is reliable and affordable, with frequent services connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: G7, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Vineyard Areas

Day trips

Reims
30 km • Half day to full day

Reims is a historic city known for its cathedral, where French kings were once crowned, and its own champagne houses.

Château de Pierry
10 km • Half day

A beautiful castle with a rich history, offering stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and champagne production facilities.

Château de Boursault
5 km • Half day

A beautiful castle with a rich history, offering stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and champagne production facilities.

Festivals

Fête de la Saint-Vincent • Late January Champagne Harvest Festival • Late August to early October Fête des Lumières • December 8

Pro tips

  • Book champagne tastings and tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons
  • Consider staying in a champagne house or vineyard for a unique and immersive experience
  • Visit local markets and shops for authentic souvenirs and local products
  • Explore the city and vineyards on foot or by bike for a more intimate and personal experience
  • Try local specialties and pair them with champagne for a true taste of the region
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-80
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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