From Epernay: Champagne Day Trip With Tastings

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Champagne’s storied region. Explore iconic sites, dive into the champagne production process, and savor traditional French cuisine paired with the finest bubbles. From Epernay, this day trip promises an immersive experience that captures the essence of this renowned wine country. Prepare to be captivated by the charm and elegance that permeates every moment of this exceptional tour.

Key Points

• Explore the historic medieval town of Epernay, the heart of the Champagne region, with iconic landmarks like Château Perrier and the prestigious Avenue de Champagne.
• Participate in a guided cellar tour and Champagne tasting session to learn about the production process and sample multiple Champagne varieties.
• Indulge in a traditional French lunch in Epernay, featuring a selection of Champagne paired with the meal, to refuel and recharge.
• Discover the quaint village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne, and learn about Dom Pérignon’s pioneering work in Champagne-making.
• Enjoy a guided tour and tasting at the family-run Champagne Munoz Bruneau, offering an intimate and educational experience in a small group setting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Epernay

The medieval town of Epernay, situated in the heart of the Champagne region, serves as the starting point for this captivating day trip.

Guests will gather at the Gare d’Epernay, the local train station, before embarking on their Champagne adventure. A quick photo stop in Epernay allows visitors to admire the iconic Château Perrier and the famous Avenue de Champagne, home to prestigious Champagne houses.

With its charming streets and impressive architecture, Epernay sets the stage for an immersive exploration of the renowned Champagne appellation.

A Visit to the Champagne House

What happens next is a visit to a renowned Champagne house for a guided tour and tasting. Guests are led through the Champagne cellars, learning about the intricate process of creating this famous sparkling wine. The tour culminates in a tasting of several Champagne cuvées, allowing visitors to discover the unique flavors and aromas of this regional specialty. This intimate experience provides a behind-the-scenes look at the Champagne-making tradition.

| Tour Highlights | Duration | What to Expect |

| — | — | — |

| Guided Cellar Tour | 1.5 hours | Learn about the Champagne production process |

| Champagne Tasting | 30 minutes | Sample several cuvées from the house |

| Vineyard Visit | 30 minutes | Explore a family-run Champagne vineyard |

| Photo Opportunities | 15 minutes | Capture memorable moments |

| Lunch Break | 2 hours | Enjoy a leisurely French-inspired meal |

Capturing the Moment in Epernay

After seeing the Champagne-making process, guests move on to explore the charming town of Epernay.

They make a 15-minute photo stop to capture the picturesque Avenue de Champagne, lined with prestigious Champagne houses.

Visitors can stroll along the elegant street, admiring the ornate façades and soaking in the lively atmosphere.

This quaint town offers a glimpse into the heart of the Champagne region, providing a perfect contrast to the technical aspects of the winemaking tour.

With its historic architecture and vibrant energy, Epernay allows guests to fully appreciate the cultural richness of the Champagne experience.

Indulging in Lunch

Following the 2-hour guided tour and tasting at the first Champagne house, guests are treated to a delightful 2-hour lunch in the heart of Epernay.

The group is taken to a charming local restaurant where they can indulge in traditional French cuisine paired with a selection of Champagne.

The menu offers a variety of options, from light salads to hearty main dishes, allowing everyone to savor the flavors of the region.

This lunch break provides a perfect opportunity to refuel and recharge before continuing the Champagne exploration later in the day.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Discovering Hautvillers

After the delightful lunch, the group heads to the quaint village of Hautvillers, where they’ve the opportunity to explore and capture the picturesque scenery.

Visitors spend 40 minutes wandering the charming streets, taking in the stunning views of the rolling vineyards.

They visit the Abbey of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne. Here, they learn about the region’s rich history and the pioneering work of Dom Pérignon, the Benedictine monk who’s credited with perfecting the Champagne-making process.

The Abbey of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne, where the pioneering work of Dom Pérignon in perfecting the Champagne-making process is explored.

The photo stop allows guests to savor the peaceful ambiance and natural beauty of this iconic Champagne village.

Touring Champagne Munoz Bruneau

Next, the group visits Champagne Munoz Bruneau, a family-run vineyard, for a guided tour and tasting. The winemaker leads them through the cellars, sharing the history and production methods. Guests enjoy sampling several Champagne cuvées, noting the unique flavors and aromas.

| Characteristic | Description |

| — | — |

| Duration | 2 hours |

| Highlights | Guided tour of cellars, tasting of multiple Champagnes |

| Experience | Intimate, educational, and immersive |

| Exclusivity | Small group, personalized attention |

| Takeaway | Deeper appreciation for artisanal Champagne production |

The visit to Munoz Bruneau provides an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Champagne-making, complementing the earlier tour and tastings.

Savoring the Champagne Cuvées

As guests explore the world of Champagne at Munoz Bruneau, they’re treated to an immersive tasting experience that awakens their senses.

The guided tasting highlights:

1. Nuanced aromas, from delicate floral notes to rich, toasted brioche.

2. Lively effervescence that dances on the palate.

3. Layers of flavor, from crisp apple and citrus to creamy, indulgent textures.

4. Distinct characteristics of each Champagne cuvée, showcasing the winery’s expertise.

Through this sensory exploration, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the art of Champagne-making and the unique terroir that shapes each bottle’s distinctive profile.

A Comfortable and Intimate Experience

The small group size and comfortable transportation ensure an intimate and personalized experience throughout the tour.

The small group size and comfortable transportation ensure an intimate and personalized experience throughout the tour.

With a maximum of 7 participants, the guide can cater to individual interests and questions. The air-conditioned van provides a relaxing ride between the different stops, allowing guests to sit back and enjoy the scenic countryside.

Wheelchair users, however, should note that the tour isn’t suitable for them.

The guided tours of the Champagne cellars and family-run vineyard offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes look, complemented by tastings of several Champagne cuvées.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?

The tour itinerary doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the lunch. Travelers should notify the tour provider in advance of any special dietary needs to ensure they can be accommodated.

Can I Bring My Own Champagne to the Tastings?

No, you can’t bring your own champagne to the tastings. The tour includes guided visits and tastings at the champagne houses, so participants are expected to sample the champagnes provided as part of the experience.

Is There a Dress Code for the Champagne House Visits?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, smart-casual attire. Avoid overly casual clothing like shorts or flip-flops to respect the formality of the champagne houses. The focus is on the tasting experience, not fashion.

Can I Purchase Champagne Bottles During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase champagne bottles during the tour. The itinerary includes visits to Champagne houses where participants can taste and buy various champagne cuvées to take home as souvenirs.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

According to the details provided, there’s no option to extend the tour duration. The trip is a 9-hour fixed itinerary that includes guided tours, tastings, and photo stops. Extending the duration would likely require booking a separate, customized tour.

Recap

The Champagne Day Trip offers a comprehensive experience that immerses travelers in the heart of the renowned Champagne region. From exploring iconic sites in Epernay to indulging in a gourmet lunch and intimate tastings, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to discover the art and tradition behind the world’s most celebrated sparkling wine. Guests can expect a comfortable and enriching journey through the picturesque landscapes and renowned cellars of this iconic French wine country.

You can check if your dates are available here: