From Epernay: Champagne Day Trip With Tastings

Epernay, the heart of Champagne, offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the region’s rich winemaking heritage. Set out on a day trip that immerses you in the exquisite world of France’s most celebrated sparkling wine. From exclusive cellar tours to charming village explorations and gourmet dining, this curated experience promises to captivate your senses and leave you longing to uncover more of Champagne’s captivating secrets.

Key Points

• Visit to a renowned Champagne house in Epernay with a 1.5-hour cellar tour and tasting of signature Champagne cuvées.
• Exploration of the picturesque village of Hautvillers, known for its winemaking heritage and the Abbey where Dom Pérignon worked.
• Leisurely 2-hour lunch break in the Marne Valley, sampling authentic regional cuisine paired with local Champagne.
• Tour of a family-run winery, Champagne Munoz Bruneau, with a 2-hour cellar tour and tasting of their Champagne cuvées.
• Opportunity to learn about the region’s history, traditions, and winemaking processes from knowledgeable guides throughout the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Champagne Region Tour

The Champagne Region Tour begins with a visit to a renowned Champagne house in Epernay. Guests explore the historic cellars and sample several Champagne cuvées.

Next, they stop for a photo opportunity in Epernay. After a leisurely lunch break, the tour continues to the picturesque village of Hautvillers.

Here, participants explore the charming streets and learn about the region’s winemaking heritage. The final stop is a family-run winery, Champagne Munoz Bruneau, where guests enjoy another cellar tour and tasting.

Throughout, a knowledgeable guide provides insights into the Champagne-making process.

Visiting the Champagne House in Epernay

Although the tour begins at the Gare d’Épernay, the first stop takes visitors to a renowned Champagne house located in the heart of Epernay.

The 1.5-hour cellar tour provides an in-depth look at the centuries-old process of making Champagne. Guests descend underground to explore the extensive network of cellars, learning about the different stages of production.

The tasting allows participants to sample several of the house’s signature Champagne cuvées. This immersive experience sets the tone for the day, whetting appetites for the additional winery visits and tastings to come throughout the picturesque Marne Valley.

Exploring the Vineyards of Hautvillers

After the photo stop in Epernay, the tour van heads to the charming village of Hautvillers, home to the Abbey where Dom Pérignon, the legendary Benedictine monk, is said to have perfected the art of Champagne production.

The group spends around 40 minutes exploring the picturesque town and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards. Guests have the opportunity to stroll through the narrow streets, visit the Abbey, and capture memorable photos of the idyllic landscape.

The visit to Hautvillers provides a glimpse into the rich history and traditions that have shaped the Champagne region.

Lunch Break in the Marne Valley

Following the photo stop in Hautvillers, the tour group heads to a local restaurant in the Marne Valley for a leisurely 2-hour lunch break.

The lunch provides:

A chance to sample authentic regional cuisine and pair it with local Champagne while learning about the winemaking traditions of the Champagne region.

• A chance to sample authentic regional cuisine and pair it with local Champagne

• An opportunity to learn about the winemaking traditions and culture of the Champagne region from the guide

• Time to relax and soak in the picturesque countryside views of the Marne Valley

• A break from the morning’s activities to recharge before the next winery visit

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Touring the Family-Run Winery

Next, the tour group visits Champagne Munoz Bruneau, a family-run winery, for a 2-hour cellar tour and tasting.

They learn about the winemaking history from the family. The guide explains the unique terroir and production methods that contribute to the distinctive Champagne flavors.

Guests explore the underground cellars, observing the intricate process of riddling and disgorgement. They sample several Champagne cuvées, appreciating the nuances in aroma, texture, and finish.

Throughout, the family shares personal stories and insights, fostering a genuine connection to the family’s winemaking legacy. This intimate experience showcases the passion and traditions behind a family-operated Champagne house.

Champagne Tasting Experiences

Though the day trip includes multiple champagne tasting experiences, the highlight is the visit to the family-run winery, Champagne Munoz Bruneau.

Guests enjoy:

• An intimate 2-hour cellar tour and tasting

• Sampling several champagne cuvées

• Learning about the winemaking history from the family

• Exploring the picturesque Marne Valley vineyards

At Champagne Munoz Bruneau, visitors gain an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at champagne production.

The family-owned operation provides a personalized experience, allowing guests to appreciate the nuances of this bubbly delight directly from the source.

Transportation and Logistics

The day trip conveniently departs from the Gare d’Épernay train station, allowing participants to easily access the Champagne region. During the 9-hour journey, guests are transported in a comfortable van through the picturesque Marne Valley vineyards.

| Transportation | Duration | Group Size |

|—————-|———-|————|

| Van | 9 hours | Up to 7 |

| Departure | Gare | Épernay |

| Return | Gare | Épernay |

The small group size ensures a personalized experience as the live English-speaking guide shares insights about the region’s winemaking history and leads participants through exclusive cellar tours and tastings at renowned Champagne houses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Group Larger Than 7 Participants?

The tour is limited to 7 participants per group. Larger groups cannot be accommodated. Guests should review the tour restrictions and requirements before booking to ensure the experience meets their needs.

Are Children Allowed on the Tour?

Yes, children are allowed on the tour, though the group size is limited to 7 participants. The tour may not be suitable for young children, as the focus is on Champagne tastings for adults.

Can I Request a Specific Guide for the Tour?

You can’t request a specific guide for this tour, as the guide assigned is based on availability. However, the tour has received positive feedback about the guide’s friendliness, knowledge, and adaptability in ensuring a full experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The itinerary is fixed at 9 hours, including the guided visits, tastings, and transportation. Extending the tour would require booking a separate, custom tour package.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Champagne Houses?

Yes, the tour can likely be customized to visit additional Champagne houses. Travelers should inquire with the tour provider about the possibility of adding extra stops to the itinerary for a personalized experience in the region.

The Sum Up

This Champagne day trip from Epernay offers a delightful exploration of the region’s iconic vineyards, prestigious houses, and family-run wineries. Visitors can savor the renowned sparkling wines, learn about the time-honored production methods, and enjoy the picturesque countryside. It’s an exceptional opportunity to discover the rich history and exquisite flavors that have made Champagne a global symbol of celebration and refinement.

You can check availability for your dates here: