Reims: Big and small wineries day tour

Contents show

Reims: Big and Small Wineries Day Tour Review

Planning a trip to the Champagne region often leads to one big question: how do you experience both the grandeur of iconic houses and the charm of small producers without feeling rushed? This Reims big and small wineries day tour offers a carefully curated journey through the heart of Champagne, combining history, tradition, and authentic winemaking in one memorable day. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about the bubbles, this tour promises a well-rounded glimpse into what makes Champagne so special.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the balance between visiting a world-renowned Champagne house and exploring intimate, artisanal producers. The inclusion of a gourmet three-course lunch paired with Champagne elevates the experience, making it as much about culinary delight as wine tasting. We also appreciate that the tour offers scenic views of the vineyards, giving a true sense of the landscape that nurtures these sparkling wines.

That said, a potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include pick-up and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from Reims. For travelers comfortable with taxis or Ubers, this isn’t a big hurdle, but it is something to keep in mind if you prefer door-to-door service.

This experience suits wine enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive Champagne adventure, travelers eager to learn about both large and small-scale producers, and those who enjoy combining tasting with cultural and scenic highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Diverse Experience: Combines visits to a prestigious Champagne house and small artisanal producers
Historic Cellars: Explore centuries-old cellars 30 meters underground
Tastings: Multiple Champagne tastings at each stop showcase a variety of styles
Culinary Pairing: A three-course gourmet lunch with Champagne enhances the day
Scenic Beauty: Beautiful vineyard landscapes provide a picturesque backdrop
Flexible & Private: Tour operates with a private group, guided in English and French

Looking for more options in Epernay? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour begins in Reims, where you’ll meet your guide and start with a brief introduction to the Champagne region. The journey then takes you to a celebrated Champagne house—options include Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Pommery, Ruinart, Mumm, or Taittinger, depending on availability. You’ll get a guided tour through their impressive cellars, often located around 30 meters underground, where you’ll learn about the history, notable figures, and production process of this iconic brand.

Guests often describe the visit as “fascinating”—an insider’s look at the scale of champagne production that spans from historic cellars to modern facilities. You’ll also enjoy tasting two different Champagne styles here, which helps to appreciate the diversity within a single house.

After the grand house visit, a delicious three-course French lunch awaits, paired with a Champagne aperitif. This is a wonderful opportunity to relax, savor local cuisine, and reflect on the morning’s experiences.

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to small producers in the Montagne de Reims. This part of the tour offers an intimate look at Champagne-making, from pressing grapes to cellar aging. The passion of the small winemakers shines through during triple tastings of their artisanal Champagnes. Multiple reviews highlight the quality and diversity of these tastings—one guest noted, “You really get to taste the variation between different producers, which broadens your appreciation for Champagne.”

The second producer visit often involves a similar triple tasting, providing a full spectrum of flavors. Guests frequently comment on the stunning views of vineyards and the relaxed, authentic atmosphere that small producers cultivate.

The tour concludes with a scenic drive through the rolling Champagne countryside, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This offers a chance to soak in the landscape that influences the region’s wines, capturing the scenic beauty that makes Champagne unique.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour:

A three-course lunch paired with Champagne
Tickets to 2 Champagne houses, including a modern art exhibition at one of them
Guided tour at Mumm Champagne with two tastings
Self-guided tour at Pommery Champagne with two tastings

Not included:

Transportation to and from Reims, so travelers should plan for taxis or Uber, which are readily available.

This setup emphasizes value, as the ticket prices cover two major Champagne houses, multiple tastings, and a gourmet meal, delivering a comprehensive experience at a reasonable cost.

The Experience Provider: Go to Champagne!

The company behind this tour, Go to Champagne!, is known for its professional, well-organized experiences. They offer flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is perfect if your plans are still fluid. Guests also appreciate the private group format, ensuring a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those with a genuine interest in Champagne, from novices wanting an overview to seasoned connoisseurs seeking new flavors. The combination of big brand history and small producer craftsmanship creates a well-balanced day that provides both education and enjoyment. If you’re someone who appreciates scenic landscapes, cultural insights, and a touch of luxury, you’ll find this outing very satisfying.

Travelers who prefer a guided experience that covers key highlights without rushing will also benefit, especially as the day is designed to be manageable within 7 hours. Just remember, since there’s no pick-up included, it’s best suited for those comfortable arranging their own transportation.

There's plenty more to explore in Epernay

Final Words

The Reims: Big and Small Wineries Day Tour offers an impressive mix of luxury, authenticity, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic way to get a comprehensive taste of Champagne’s history, culture, and craftsmanship—all in a single day. The combination of visiting a prestigious house, enjoying a gourmet meal, and exploring intimate artisanal producers makes for a memorable experience that captures the essence of Champagne.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, guided day that balances grand tradition with personal stories and stunning vistas, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just tastings—they want to understand the heart behind every bubble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially since it’s a private group tour and dates can fill up.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour does not include pick-up or drop-off. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to Reims.

Can I choose which Champagne house I visit?
You might find that the specific house visited depends on availability, or the tour may choose for you from among Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Pommery, Ruinart, Mumm, or Taittinger.

How many tastings are included?
Guests enjoy two tastings at each of the two Champagne houses, plus additional tastings at small producers, totaling at least six different Champagne tastings.

What is the duration of the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, with starting times available depending on your booking.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a three-course French meal with Champagne is part of the package.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, the tour is guided in both English and French.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore cellar tunnels and vineyard viewpoints.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Reims big and small wineries tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable, and educational journey through Champagne. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a seasoned Champagne enthusiast, it’s a day that balances history, flavor, and scenery with a touch of luxury.