Epernay, the heart of the Champagne region, beckons visitors to explore its rich winemaking heritage. This guided winery and cellar tour promises an immersive experience, delving into the intricate process of crafting the world’s most renowned sparkling wine. Discover centuries-old techniques, savor exquisite champagne selections, and connect with local wine growers, all within the captivating ambiance of a family-owned estate. Prepare to be enchanted as you uncover the secrets behind the effervescent elegance of Champagne.
Key Points
- A guided tour of a family-owned winery in Epernay, France, with exploration of its 100-year-old underground cellars and a champagne tasting.
- The 1.5-hour tour includes interactions with local wine growers, insights into the region’s terroir, and sampling of two distinct champagne varieties.
- The cellars, located 25 meters underground, have a capacity of 3 million bottles and showcase the traditional champagne-making process.
- Guests can learn about the time-honored grape harvesting, pressing, blending, and riddling techniques used by the local winemakers.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and the value for money.
Tour Overview
The activity on offer is a guided winery and cellar tour with champagne tasting, located in Epernay, the heart of the Champagne region.
The tour lasts 1.5 hours and costs from $51.11 per person. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and can reserve their spot without immediate payment.
The tour lasts 1.5 hours and costs from $51.11 per person. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour takes visitors through a family-owned winery, including its 100-year-old cellars, underground galleries, vat house, and chai.
Participants will sample two different champagnes and interact with local wine growers to learn about their traditions.
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Highlights of the Experience
Though the tour focuses on the family-owned winery and its century-old cellars, visitors can also expect to engage with local wine growers and learn about their time-honored traditions.
The guided tour takes guests through the underground galleries, vat house, and chai, providing an in-depth look at the winemaking process.
Visitors will sample two distinct champagnes – a Brut sélection and a Brut Cuvée de Réserve – Vieilles Vignes, allowing them to appreciate the nuances of the region’s terroir.
Exploring the Cellar’s Depths
Descending 25 meters below ground, the winery’s centuries-old cellars transport visitors into a captivating realm.
Spanning approximately 1.5 kilometers, these vast underground galleries can hold up to 3 million bottles. Rows of wooden barrels and bottles line the dimly lit corridors, exuding the distinct aroma of aging champagne.
Guests explore the vat house and chai, getting an insider’s look at the traditional champagne-making process. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share the rich history and techniques that have been passed down through generations of local winemakers.
Knowledgeable guides share the rich history and techniques of traditional champagne-making passed down through generations of local winemakers.
This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship behind each bottle of champagne.
Discovering Champagne Traditions
As visitors enjoy the winery’s captivating cellars, they have the opportunity to discover the rich traditions that have shaped the champagne-making process. Local wine growers eagerly share their expertise, revealing the meticulous techniques and time-honored practices that have been passed down through generations. Through engaging interactions, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the art of champagne production, from grape harvesting to the intricate blending process. This intimate experience allows them to connect with the winery’s heritage and the passion that infuses every bottle.
| Key Traditions | Description |
| — | — |
| Grape Harvesting | Carefully timed to ensure optimal ripeness |
| Pressing | Gentle pressing to extract the highest-quality juice |
| Blending | Artful blending of reserve wines and vintages |
| Riddling | Manual turning of bottles to aid yeast removal |
More Great Thing To Do NearbySampling the Finest Selections
Tasting the Champagne selections is the highlight of the winery tour, where visitors can savor the distinct flavors and aromas that embody the region’s exceptional terroir.
The tour includes:
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A Brut selection, showcasing the winery’s signature blend with a crisp, dry finish.
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A Cuvée de Réserve – Vieilles Vignes (Brut), crafted from older vines, delivering a more complex and nuanced profile.
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Engaging discussions with the winemakers, who share their passion and insights into the champagne-making process.
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An opportunity to purchase the tasted selections, allowing visitors to continue their champagne journey at home.
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Connecting With Local Wine Growers
Beyond the captivating flavors of the champagne itself, the winery tour provides an opportunity to engage with the local wine growers.
Visitors can learn firsthand about the traditions and techniques passed down through generations. The growers share their passion for the craft, offering insights into the meticulous process of growing grapes and crafting champagne.
This intimate interaction humanizes the experience, allowing guests to appreciate the human element behind the renowned wines. By connecting with the local producers, visitors gain a deeper understanding and newfound respect for the art of champagne-making in the heart of the Champagne region.
Practical Information for Participants
Where can visitors find the meeting point for this winery and cellar tour in Epernay? The meeting point is provided in Google Maps.
This 1.5-hour guided tour is suitable for adults only, as it isn’t suitable for children under 18.
The tour includes:
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A visit to a family-owned winery with 100-year-old cellars.
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Exploration of underground galleries, the vat house, and the chai.
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Sampling of two different champagnes: sélection (Brut) and Cuvée de Réserve – Vieilles Vignes (Brut).
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Engaging with local wine growers to learn about their traditions.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
According to the customer reviews, the winery and cellar tour in Epernay has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 24 reviews.
Guests particularly praised the knowledgeable and pedagogical guides who provided an informative and engaging experience. The value for money rating was 4.2 out of 5, indicating that the tour offers good value.
Visitors were impressed by the historic 100-year-old cellars and the chance to sample two different champagnes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?
The tour doesn’t explicitly state if it’s suitable for people with disabilities. It’s best to contact the tour provider to inquire about accessibility accommodations before booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Event?
No, bringing your own food and drinks is not allowed. The tour experience includes a champagne tasting, so outside beverages are prohibited. Participants should plan to enjoy the provided champagne samples during the event.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees During the Tour?
The tour price covers the guided experience and champagne tastings. There are no additional costs or fees during the tour. Participants should bring only themselves, as outside food and drinks are not allowed.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Champagne Tasting?
The tour is suitable for adults only, as the champagne tasting is not available for children under 18. Participants must be at least 18 years old to take part in the tasting portion of the experience.
What Should I Wear to the Tour?
Comfortable, casual attire is recommended for the tour. Wear flat, closed-toe shoes as you’ll be walking through the cellars. The temperature is cool underground, so bring a light jacket or sweater to stay warm.
Recap
Enjoy the rich history and traditions of Epernay’s champagne-making at this captivating winery and cellar tour. Explore the 100-year-old underground galleries, learn from local wine growers, and savor two exceptional champagnes. With high ratings and an enlightening journey, this tour offers an unparalleled experience for champagne enthusiasts. Don’t miss the chance to uncover the charm of this renowned region.
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