Reims: Small-Group Champagne Tour With Champagne Tastings and Lunch

Nestled in the heart of the renowned Champagne region, Reims offers a captivating opportunity for oenophiles and novices alike. This small-group tour delves into the rich heritage and production process of the iconic bubbly, guiding visitors through prestigious Champagne houses along the ‘Avenue de Champagne.’ With seven tastings accompanied by an expert’s insights, guests will uncover the nuances that define this celebrated wine. And what better way to savor the region’s cultural and culinary treasures than with a delectable lunch featuring local specialties and, of course, Champagne? Prepare to embark on an immersive journey that’ll leave you thirsting for more.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Lunch Experiences In Reims.

Key Points

• A small-group tour from Reims exploring the renowned Champagne region, including visits to famous Champagne houses along the ‘Avenue de Champagne’ in Epernay.
• Opportunity to learn about the Champagne-making process and the rich history of the area, with a Champagne tasting workshop to develop tasting skills.
• Includes a delectable lunch with regional specialties and Champagne servings, allowing guests to continue their tasting journey and savor local cuisine.
• Transportation provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, with a small group setting (maximum 8 persons) and an English-speaking guide.
• Tour starts at the Reims train station and concludes at the same location, with a straightforward meeting point and logistics.

Tour Overview

This small-group tour from Reims takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the renowned Champagne region, guiding them through the famous Champagne houses along the ‘Avenue de Champagne‘ in Epernay.

Participants will learn about the intricate Champagne-making process and the rich history of the area. The highlight of the tour is a Champagne tasting workshop where guests can hone their tasting skills and become true Champagne experts.

The tour also includes a visit to a family-run winery, where visitors can sample the estate’s signature Champagnes. Throughout the day, guests will enjoy a lunch featuring regional specialties paired with Champagne, all while exploring the picturesque Champagne landscape in a small-group setting.

Inclusions

The tour includes a delectable lunch showcasing regional specialties, accompanied by Champagne servings. An air-conditioned vehicle transports the group, ensuring a comfortable experience regardless of weather conditions.

Throughout the day, visitors partake in a total of 7 Champagne tastings, gaining expert insight into the tasting process.

The tour’s inclusions:

• Lunch with regional specialties and Champagne
• Small group (maximum 8 persons)
• 7 Champagne tastings during the day
• Air-conditioned vehicle for transportation

Plus, participants enjoy a small-group setting, led by an English-speaking guide, with hotel pickup and drop-off provided.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Participants meet at the Tourist Office situated outside the Reims train station to commence the tour at 11:15 am.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, and confirmation is provided at the time of booking.

The small-group experience isn’t wheelchair accessible but operates in all weather conditions.

Getting to the meeting point is straightforward, and the tour guide ensures a smooth start to the day’s activities.

Once the group is assembled, they’ll embark on an immersive journey through the Champagne region, visiting renowned houses and exploring the art of Champagne-making.

With the logistics taken care of, participants can focus on enjoying the experience and becoming experts in Champagne tasting.

Champagne Tastings

Throughout the tour, visitors have the opportunity to participate in a Champagne tasting workshop, where they’ll gain expertise in discerning the unique characteristics of this renowned sparkling wine.

The tasting includes:

• 7 different Champagne samples from various prestigious houses and family-run wineries
• An in-depth explanation of the Champagne production process and how it influences the flavor profile
• Tips on identifying aromas, flavors, and textures that distinguish high-quality Champagne
• Guidance from an expert guide on properly savoring and appreciating each Champagne’s distinctive qualities.

Lunch With Regional Specialties

A delightful lunch featuring regional specialties and flowing Champagne completes the tour experience.

During the tour, guests enjoy a local lunch that showcases the flavors of the Champagne region. The meal may include dishes like coq au vin, a classic French chicken stew made with Champagne, as well as seasonal produce and artisanal cheeses.

Champagne, of course, flows freely, allowing guests to continue their tasting journey. This communal lunch provides an opportunity to savor the local cuisine, discuss the day’s discoveries, and solidify the shared experience with the small group.

A fitting finale to a comprehensive exploration of Champagne’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

Small Group Experience

The small group size of this tour, capped at 8 travelers, ensures an intimate and personalized experience as guests explore the renowned Champagne region.

With a maximum of just 8 people, you’ll enjoy:

• Attentive, one-on-one attention from your English-speaking guide
• An opportunity to ask plenty of questions and get personalized recommendations
• A chance to connect with your fellow wine enthusiasts in a relaxed setting
• A more exclusive and immersive exploration of the Champagne houses and wineries

This small-group format allows you to avoid the crowds and truly savor the Champagne-making process, from vine to glass. You’ll leave feeling like an expert taster, with memories to last a lifetime.

Hotel Pickup and Drop-off

This tour offers the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, allowing guests to relax and fully enjoy the Champagne experience without worrying about transportation.

The tour starts at 11:15 am from the Tourist Office outside the Reims train station, and ends back at the same location. By providing hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour ensures a seamless and stress-free experience for guests.

This allows them to focus on the highlights of the tour, such as visiting the famous Champagne houses, learning about the Champagne-making process, and participating in a Champagne tasting workshop. Guests can sit back and enjoy the ride while the knowledgeable guide handles all the logistics, making this a truly hassle-free and memorable Champagne tour.

Additional Information

Aside from the seamless transportation, the tour also offers additional considerations to ensure a comfortable and customized experience for guests. Dietary requirements can be accommodated, allowing those with special dietary needs to fully enjoy the regional specialties and Champagne pairings.

The tour isn’t compatible with children under 10 years old, catering specifically to adult travelers seeking an immersive Champagne exploration.

The tour also includes the following additional highlights:

• Champagne shipping available to various locations, including the US, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and Hong Kong

• 207 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, indicating a high level of guest satisfaction

• Small group size, with a maximum of 8 travelers per tour

• Operates in all weather conditions, ensuring the tour runs regardless of the day’s forecast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Non-Drinkers or Designated Drivers?

The tour may not be suitable for non-drinkers or designated drivers, as it includes multiple Champagne tastings throughout the day. Participants who don’t wish to consume alcohol may want to consider an alternative tour option.

Can the Tour Accommodate Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Dietary Requirements?

The tour can accommodate dietary requirements like vegetarian and gluten-free. The provider notes that they’re able to cater to special dietary needs. Travelers should notify the tour operator of any requirements when booking.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not appear to offer any discounts for students or seniors. However, it does accommodate dietary requirements, including vegetarian and gluten-free, upon request. The tour’s price is the same for all adult participants.

Is It Possible to Visit Additional Champagne Houses Beyond the Itinerary?

Yes, it’s possible to visit additional Champagne houses beyond the standard itinerary. The tour operator can customize the tour to include extra stops, though this may incur additional costs. Travelers should discuss any special requests with the operator prior to booking.

What Is the Cancellation Policy, and Is It Possible to Reschedule the Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if cancelled at least 24 hours prior to the tour. Rescheduling is also possible, subject to availability. Guests should contact the tour operator directly to make any changes.

Recap

This small-group Champagne tour from Reims offers an immersive experience in the renowned region.

Visitors will explore the history and production of iconic Champagne, with tastings at prestigious houses.

The tour also includes a delectable lunch featuring regional specialties and Champagne, providing a fitting conclusion to the journey through the cultural and culinary heritage of this renowned wine region.