Reims: Veuve Clicquot and Family-Run Winery Day Tour & Lunch

Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of Champagne country. This guided tour immerses you in the elegance and history of Veuve Clicquot, one of the world’s most celebrated Champagne houses. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – explore the enchanting world of a family-run winery, savoring their unique Champagne selections paired with a delightful regional lunch. Uncover the passion and craftsmanship behind this iconic French beverage, and discover why Champagne is so much more than just a celebratory drink.

Contents show

Key Points

Guided visit to the iconic Veuve Clicquot Champagne house, exploring cellars and winemaking techniques, and tasting four renowned Champagnes.
Brief stop in the historic winemaking town of Aÿ-Champagne, with photo opportunities and a glimpse of the regional Champagne houses.
Memorable lunch at a family-owned Champagne estate, featuring regional cuisine and a tasting of the winery’s Champagne offerings.
Guided tour in Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne, exploring historical significance and the legacy of Dom Pérignon.
Champagne tasting at a renowned local estate, sampling Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier varietals with insights into the unique terroir.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Visitors Center

The tour begins with a guided visit to the Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Visitors Center, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the storied history of this iconic Champagne house.

Guests will explore the cellars and learn about the brand’s pioneering spirit and winemaking techniques.

The tour includes four tastings, allowing visitors to sample Veuve Clicquot’s renowned Champagnes.

This immersive experience provides a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and legacy that have made Veuve Clicquot a symbol of elegance and sophistication in the world of Champagne.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Reims

Aÿ-Champagne Visit

After the in-depth exploration of the Veuve Clicquot legacy, the tour then takes guests to the charming village of Aÿ-Champagne. This brief stopover offers a glimpse into the heartland of the Champagne region.

| Aÿ-Champagne Highlights | |

|————————–|—|

| Historic Winemaking Town | 30 minutes |

| Birthplace of Champagne | Photo Opportunity |

| Picturesque Architecture | Quaint Atmosphere |

| Champagne House Sights | Regional Flavor |

This idyllic visit sets the stage for the tour’s main event – a family-run winery lunch and tasting experience.

Family-Run Winery Lunch and Champagne Tasting

From Aÿ-Champagne, the tour proceeds to a family-owned Champagne estate, where guests are treated to a memorable lunch and Champagne tasting experience.

The lunch features regional cuisine expertly paired with the winery’s own Champagne. During the tasting, guests learn Champagne tasting techniques and enjoy sampling the family’s award-winning cuvées.

The tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the authentic and intimate setting of a small, family-run winery, gaining insights into the passion and art of Champagne production.

Hautvillers Visit and Guided Tour

Next, the tour moves on to the charming village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne.

Here, the group enjoys a guided tour, exploring the town’s historical significance and iconic sites.

The highlight is the opportunity to capture photos from a scenic viewpoint overlooking the rolling vineyards.

The guide provides insights into the region’s winemaking traditions and the legacy of Dom Pérignon, the Benedictine monk credited with pioneering modern Champagne production.

This stop offers a chance to take in the picturesque setting that inspired generations of Champagne innovators.

More Great Tours Nearby

Marne Visit With Champagne Tasting

The tour then proceeds to the Marne region, where participants are treated to a Champagne tasting at a renowned local estate. This segment of the tour lasts 75 minutes, allowing ample time to sample the estate’s finest offerings and learn about the nuances of Champagne production.

| Region | Varietals | Tasting Notes |

| — | — | — |

| Marne | Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier | Crisp acidity, delicate bubbles, notes of green apple, citrus, and toasted brioche. |

The guide provides insights into the unique terroir and winemaking practices that contribute to the region’s renowned Champagne. An immersive and educational experience, the Marne visit completes the tour’s exploration of Champagne’s rich heritage and diverse flavors.

Ready for another glass? Here are more wine experiences we've reviewed in Reims

Champagne Tasting Techniques

How does one properly approach a Champagne tasting?

First, examine the wine’s appearance. Note the clarity, color, and effervescence.

The wine’s appearance should be closely examined, noting its clarity, color, and effervescence.

Next, take a gentle whiff, allowing the aromas to unfold. Pay attention to fruity, floral, or yeasty notes.

Then, take a small sip and allow the wine to spread across your palate. Identify the overall balance of flavors – sweetness, acidity, and carbonation.

Lastly, consider the finish – how long the flavors linger. A quality Champagne should have a persistent, elegant finish.

Following these steps allows tasters to fully appreciate the complexity and character of each champagne.

Customer Ratings and Inclusions

Customers have overwhelmingly praised this tour, rating it an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars across 55 reviews.

Highlights include the quality of the local, English-speaking guide, the comfortable air-conditioned minivan transportation, and the excellent value for money.

The tour includes entry fees for visits and tastings at one family winery, a delightful lunch at a winery, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Visitors can expect 9 glasses of Champagne tastings throughout the day.

The tour accommodates dietary restrictions with advance notice.

Prospective guests should prepare for cool temperatures in the cellars by bringing a jacket.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The maximum group size for the tour is 8 participants. The tour requires a minimum of 2 participants to run, and the group size is limited to ensure a personalized experience.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal for Lunch?

Yes, the tour operator accommodates dietary restrictions like vegetarian or gluten-free meals if mentioned at the time of booking. They’ll ensure you have an enjoyable lunch that fits your dietary needs.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There doesn’t seem to be an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is fixed at 7.5 hours, and any requests to modify the schedule would need to be discussed directly with the tour operator.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Tasting Glasses?

The tour provides all the necessary tasting glasses, so you don’t need to bring your own. The guided tastings are part of the inclusive experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the Champagnes without the hassle of glassware.

Can I Purchase Champagne Bottles During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase Champagne bottles during the tour. The tour includes visits to wineries where you’ll have the opportunity to buy bottles of the Champagnes you taste.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the rich history and artistry of Champagne production on this guided tour. Explore the iconic Veuve Clicquot cellars, savor exceptional Champagnes, and enjoy a delightful lunch at a family-run winery. This experience showcases the craftsmanship and passion behind one of the world’s most celebrated beverages. Dive into the elegance and heritage of Champagne on this unforgettable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: