Discovering the heart of Champagne, just a short drive from Paris, can be a captivating experience. This private Epernay trip offers an immersive journey into the world of France’s renowned sparkling wine. Guests will have the opportunity to explore prestigious Champagne houses, savor up to seven different vintages, and explore the region’s rich history and traditions. With guided tours, tastings, and a gourmet lunch, this excursion promises to transport visitors beyond the City of Light, uncovering the secrets that have made Champagne a global icon. Whether a seasoned oenophile or a champagne enthusiast, this exclusive experience promises to leave a lasting impression.
Just The Basics
- A private day trip from Paris to the Champagne region of Epernay, offering an immersive experience with guided tours and tastings at prestigious Champagne houses.
- Opportunity to sample up to 7 different sparkling wines, including tastings at the world’s largest Champagne producer, Moët & Chandon.
- Includes a 3-course lunch in the heart of Epernay, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and expertly paired Champagne and regional wine selections.
- Guided tour and tasting at a second renowned Champagne estate, providing a deeper appreciation for the diversity within the region.
- 2-hour drive through the picturesque French countryside with the chance to discuss the nuances of the different Champagne houses and vintages.
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Overview of the Private Trip
This private day trip from Paris to the Champagne region of Epernay offers an immersive experience for visitors to discover the rich history and renowned wineries of this renowned wine-producing area.
Lasting 11 hours, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in Paris, a 2-hour drive to Epernay, guided tours and tastings at prestigious Champagne houses, a 3-course lunch, and a photo stop with additional tastings.
Guests can expect to sample up to 7 different sparkling wines while learning from a professional guide about the history and production of Champagne.
With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, this private excursion is likely to sell out quickly.
Highlights of the Champagne Tour
Visitors on this private Champagne tour can expect to sample up to 7 different sparkling wines, offering a diverse tasting experience.
The tour includes a guided visit to the world’s largest Champagne producer, where guests will learn the history of this renowned region from a professional guide.
Participants will also have the opportunity to visit the grave of the father of Champagne and see the local vineyards that produce this iconic beverage.
Along With the tastings, the tour features a 3-course restaurant lunch and a stop for photos and another Champagne tasting in the Marne region.
Itinerary and Duration
The private Champagne tour from Paris to Epernay lasts 11 hours, with the itinerary designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of the region’s renowned wineries and vineyards.
After being picked up in Paris, guests will drive to Epernay, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour and tasting at Moët & Chandon (or a similar winery).
Following a 1.5-hour lunch in Epernay, the tour will continue with:
- A photo stop and Champagne tasting in the Marne region
- A guided tour and tasting at another winery
- The return journey to Paris
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, a professional guide, a 3-course lunch, and all entry fees and wine tastings.
Tasting Champagne at Moët & Chandon
After the drive to Epernay, the tour first takes guests on a guided tour of the iconic Moët & Chandon winery, where they’ll learn about the storied history and production process of this world-renowned Champagne house.
Founded in 1743, Moët & Chandon is the largest Champagne producer globally, known for its flagship Brut Imperial and vintage cuvées.
During the tour, visitors will explore the impressive underground cellars, housing millions of bottles aging to perfection.
The highlight is the Champagne tasting, where guests sample up to three different expressions, gaining an appreciation for the nuances of this celebrated sparkling wine.
This in-depth experience provides an immersive look into the rich traditions and meticulous craftsmanship that define the Champagne region.
Lunch in the Heart of Epernay
Following the Champagne tasting at Moët & Chandon, the group moves on to savor a 1.5-hour lunch in the heart of Epernay, the capital of the Champagne region.
The meal is served at a local restaurant, showcasing the region’s renowned cuisine and wines. Diners can expect:
- A 3-course menu featuring seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients
- Expertly paired Champagne and other regional wine selections
- A chance to relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Epernay’s city center
This lunch break provides a welcome respite and opportunity to refuel before continuing the exploration of the Champagne vineyards and wineries.
Visiting a Second Champagne Winery
Next, the group visits a second Champagne winery for an additional 1.5-hour guided tour and tasting. This second stop allows guests to compare and contrast the production methods, terroir, and flavor profiles of Champagne from a different renowned estate. The guide shares the unique history and traditions of this family-owned operation, while visitors explore the wine cellar and learn about the intricate blending process. Afterward, everyone gathers for a seated tasting, savoring several expressions of the house’s signature cuvées. This comparative experience provides a deeper appreciation for the nuances and diversity within the Champagne region.
Winery | Grape Varieties | Production Method | Flavor Profile | Terroir |
---|---|---|---|---|
Moët & Chandon | Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier | Traditional Méthode Champenoise | Elegant, Balanced, Refined | Côte des Blancs |
Second Winery | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Return to Paris
The journey then winds back towards Paris, with the group settling in for the 2-hour drive through the picturesque French countryside.
Along the way, there’s time to reminisce about the day’s highlights and savor the last sips of the exquisite Champagnes tasted.
The drive offers a chance to:
- Admire the rolling vineyards and quaint villages that dot the landscape
- Discuss the nuances of the different Champagne houses and vintages
- Plan future visits to explore more of France’s renowned wine regions
Additional Information and Exclusions
This private excursion to the Champagne region presents a few important considerations. While the package includes an array of premium tastings and experiences, it excludes select items. Specifically, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or those under the legal drinking age, as participation in the Champagne samplings is a central component. Plus, the total duration of approximately 11 hours may prove lengthy for some travelers. The opportunity to explore the rich heritage and production processes of France’s iconic sparkling wine makes this an enthralling outing for oenophiles and Francophiles alike.
Inclusions | Exclusions |
---|---|
Hotel pickup and drop-off | Not suitable for pregnant women |
Air-conditioned transportation | Not suitable for children under 18 |
Private tour guide | – |
3-course restaurant lunch | – |
Entry fees | – |
Wine tastings at 2 Champagne houses | – |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for those with significant mobility issues. It involves walking during the guided tours and tastings, as well as getting in and out of the transportation. Accessibility should be confirmed with the tour provider.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tastings?
The tour excludes children under 18 from the tastings, as they must be of legal drinking age to participate. However, guests under 18 can still join the tour and enjoy the other activities.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated for the Lunch?
Yes, dietary restrictions can be accommodated for the included 3-course restaurant lunch. The tour provider will work with the restaurant to ensure any dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, are met.
How Much Luggage Can Be Brought on the Tour?
This private tour does not provide specific luggage restrictions. However, it’s recommended to bring only small, manageable bags as transportation and winery visits may be easier with limited luggage. Travelers should contact the tour provider for any specific luggage policy.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour duration can be extended, but this would require additional charges. Customers can inquire about customizing the itinerary and extending the tour time when booking the experience. Pricing for extended tours is available upon request.
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Sum Up
The private Epernay trip provides an immersive Champagne experience.
Guests can enjoy guided tours, tastings, and a 3-course lunch, exploring the world’s largest Champagne producer and the local vineyards.
With up to 7 different sparkling wines to sample, this is a must-do for Champagne enthusiasts visiting Paris.