From Epernay: Afternoon Champagne Tour With 6 Tastings

Nestled in the heart of the Champagne region, this intimate afternoon tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich history and renowned winemaking traditions of the area. From exploring the iconic Hautvillers Abbey to discovering the UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate processes behind the production of this iconic French sparkling wine. With personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide and the chance to sample a variety of Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes, this tour promises to provide a well-rounded and unforgettable Champagne tasting experience.

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne and visit a family-owned grower in Oger village for a tour and tasting of Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes.
• Discover Hautvillers Abbey, the final resting place of Dom Pérignon, and learn about the region’s history and winemaking traditions from a knowledgeable, bilingual guide.
• Enjoy a small group experience with a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate tour with opportunities for questions and discussions.
• Sample a variety of Champagne aperitifs, including Ratafia, Fine de la Marne, and Marc de Champagne, to enhance your Champagne tasting experience.
• Suitable for both novices and aficionados, the tour provides an immersive and engaging exploration of the Champagne region.

Tour Details

The Afternoon Champagne Tour from Epernay lasts 3.5 hours and accommodates a small group size limited to 8 participants.

A live tour guide is available in both English and French to lead the experience.

The itinerary includes a visit to the historic Hautvillers Abbey, the resting place of Dom Pérignon.

Participants will also explore the UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne in Epernay and visit a family grower in Oger.

Here, they’ll tour the press, winery, and cellar, and taste Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes.

Plus, the tour features opportunities to savor Ratafia, Fine de la Marne, and Marc de Champagne aperitifs.

With a focus on the renowned Côte des Blancs Grand Cru vineyards, this tour offers an immersive Champagne experience.

Small Group Experience

A small group size of up to 8 participants ensures an intimate and personalized Champagne tour experience.

You’ll explore the famous vineyards and villages around Epernay with a knowledgeable, bilingual guide who’ll provide insights into the region’s rich history and renowned winemaking traditions.

The small group setting allows for a more interactive and engaging experience, where you can ask questions, engage in discussions, and truly learn about the world of Champagne.

Whether you’re a novice or an aficionado, this small-group tour provides an exclusive opportunity to discover the secrets of this iconic sparkling wine in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

Visiting Hautvillers Abbey

As the tour ventures forth, visitors will explore the hallowed grounds of Hautvillers Abbey, the revered resting place of the legendary Dom Pérignon, whose pioneering work in the art of winemaking profoundly shaped the evolution of Champagne. This 16th-century abbey, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Champagne region, offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and traditions that have defined the Champagne-making process for centuries. Guests will have the opportunity to wander through the abbey’s serene cloisters and gardens, soaking in the tranquil ambiance that once inspired the genius of Dom Pérignon himself.

Key Highlights	Description
Historical Significance	Hautvillers Abbey is the final resting place of Dom Pérignon, the pioneering Benedictine monk who is credited with advancing the art of Champagne production.
Architecture	The abbey features stunning 16th-century Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Spiritual Atmosphere	Visitors can enjoy the abbey’s serene and contemplative atmosphere, which is said to have inspired Dom Pérignon’s innovations.
Picturesque Setting	The abbey is nestled among the verdant vineyards and rolling hills of the Champagne countryside, offering a picturesque backdrop for exploration.
Exclusive Access	As part of the Afternoon Champagne Tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore the abbey’s grounds and learn about its historical significance.

Exploring Epernay’s Vineyards

After exploring the hallowed grounds of Hautvillers Abbey, the tour ventures forth to uncover the renowned vineyards of Epernay.

Guests will have the opportunity to explore the heart of the Champagne region, as they traverse the UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne, marveling at the iconic Châteaux and historic cellars that line this prestigious avenue.

The tour then visits a family-owned grower in the prestigious Oger village, where guests will tour the press, winery, and cellars, and indulge in tastings of Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the terroir, production methods, and rich history that make Champagne one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions.

Tasting at Family Grower

The tour then takes guests to a family-owned grower in the prestigious Oger village, where they’ll have the opportunity to tour the press, winery, and cellars before indulging in tastings of Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes.

At the family estate, visitors will learn about the meticulous process of crafting exceptional Champagne. They’ll explore the vineyards, discover the nuances of the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, and gain insights into the traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.

The tasting allows guests to savor the rich flavors and complex aromas of the award-winning Champagnes, providing a truly immersive experience in the heart of the Champagne region.

Sampling Champagne Aperitifs

Along With the Champagne tastings, the tour also allows visitors to savor a variety of Champagne aperitifs, including Ratafia, Fine de la Marne, and Marc de Champagne.

Ratafia is a sweet, fortified wine made from Champagne grape must, while Fine de la Marne is a clear, colorless eau-de-vie distilled from Champagne grapes.

Marc de Champagne, on the other hand, is a brandy made from the pressed skins and seeds of Champagne grapes.

These aperitifs offer a unique flavor profile that complements the Champagnes tasted during the tour, providing a well-rounded Champagne experience. The opportunity to sample these specialty aperitifs is an added bonus that enriches the overall tour.

Highlights of the Tour

Amidst the tour, visitors can discover the renowned Côte des Blancs Grand Cru vineyards, home to some of the finest Chardonnay grapes in the Champagne region.

Exploring the famous vineyards and villages around Epernay, the tour also showcases the 16th-century Hautvillers Abbey, the resting place of Dom Pérignon.

Passing by the Château de Saran, owned by the prestigious LVMH group and the production site of Moët & Chandon, highlights include:

• Visiting a family grower in Oger to tour the press, winery, and cellar
• Tasting Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes
• Savoring Ratafia, Fine de la Marne, and Marc de Champagne aperitifs
• Strolling down the UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne in Epernay.

Inclusions and Information

This tour includes roundtrip transportation from Epernay by air-conditioned vehicle, as well as a bilingual guide/driver.

Visitors will enjoy visits and tastings at three Champagne Grand Cru/Premier Cru producers, along with Champagne and aperitifs during three additional tastings.

The meeting point is in front of the Tourist Office in Epernay. However, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and large bags or luggage aren’t allowed.

With a small group size limited to 8 participants, this afternoon Champagne excursion offers an intimate and immersive experience exploring the renowned vineyards and villages around Epernay.

Guests can expect to discover the Côte des Blancs Grand Cru vineyards, visit the historic Hautvillers Abbey, and pass by the iconic Château de Saran.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can be extended, though the specific options are not provided in the details given. Customers may be able to request a longer tour, subject to availability and additional fees.

Can We Visit Additional Champagne Houses Upon Request?

The tour can be customized to include additional Champagne houses upon request, subject to availability. This allows visitors to explore more of the region and sample a wider variety of Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Tasting Menu?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the tasting menu. However, guests with special dietary needs should inform the tour operator in advance to ensure their requirements can be accommodated during the Champagne tastings.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour’s cancellation policy allows customers to receive a full refund if they cancel at least 72 hours before the scheduled start time. No refunds are given for cancellations within 72 hours of the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit Our Preferences?

This tour can generally be customized to fit guests’ preferences. The tour operator may accommodate special requests, such as visiting different champagne houses or modifying the itinerary, within reason and availability. Customization options should be discussed directly with the tour provider.

Recap

This Champagne tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience in the heart of the region.

Visitors will explore historic landmarks, family-owned vineyards, and sample a variety of Premier and Grand Cru Champagnes, as well as unique aperitifs.

The small-group size ensures personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, making this an unforgettable and well-rounded introduction to the world of Champagne.