From Reims/Epernay : Food & Champagne Experience

This experience made our article of We Rank The 3 Best Tours & Experiences In Ay Champagne.

Introduction

Looking for an experience that combines the best of France’s iconic bubbly with gourmet delights? This Food & Champagne Experience from Reims or Epernay promises a full day of tastings, tours, and culinary surprises. It’s ideal for those who want more than just a tasting — wanting to understand the craft, discover regional flavors, and indulge in regional cuisine.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, it visits three family-owned Champagne estates, each representing a different corner of the region’s viticulture. Secondly, the 15 curated tastings paired with 15 different dishes highlight regional produce and enhance your understanding of Champagne’s versatility. Lastly, a playful aroma workshop helps deepen your appreciation for Champagne’s nuances. One potential challenge? The day is packed with activities, so pace and comfort are worth considering. This experience is perfect for lovers of food, wine, and authentic regional culture who want a comprehensive, immersive day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Visit Three Family Estates: Experience the charm of small, family-run Champagne houses of Grand Cru and Premier Cru status.
• Tasting & Pairing: Enjoy 15 curated tastings, including Grand Cru and Premier Cru Champagnes, paired with regional dishes.
• Educational Workshops: Participate in a fun aroma discovery workshop that enhances your understanding of Champagne’s complexities.
• Scenic Exploration: Drive through the Marne Valley, Côte des Blancs, and scenic vineyard landscapes.
• Authentic Regional Cuisine: Savor the region’s specialties like local cheeses, cured meats, and regional spirits.
• Flexible & Private: The tour offers pickup and drop-off options, private groups, and a relaxed, personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This 7 to 8-hour tour is carefully curated to offer an enriching blend of vineyard visits, tastings, and regional gastronomy. Starting from either Reims or Epernay, you’ll journey through famed vineyards and charming villages, gaining insight into the region’s unique terroirs.

Stops include Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Aÿ-Champagne, Monthelon, and Oger, each offering a glimpse into the Champagne-making process and the distinct characteristics of their terroirs. The day concludes with a walk along the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, where major Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët are located — a classic photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the Champagne atmosphere.

Scenic Drives & Vineyard Visits

Traveling in a luxurious, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll enjoy commentary from a passionate local guide. The small group setting ensures personalized attention and flexibility, making it easier to ask questions about everything from vineyard practices to regional history.

Driving through the vineyards, you’ll see the rolling hills and lush vines that produce some of the world’s most celebrated Champagne. A quick stop in Monthelon offers a scenic view, allowing you to snap photos and breathe in the fresh vineyard air. The journey isn’t just about tastings; it’s about understanding the landscape that shapes each glass.

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Visiting Family Estates and Champagne Tastings

The core of this experience revolves around visits to three family-owned Champagne estates, carefully selected for their Grand Cru and Premier Cru status. These smaller producers often produce less commercialized, more authentic Champagne compared to big brands, offering a genuine taste of regional craftsmanship.

Guests will get to see the press, winery, and cellar, gaining insights into the Champagne production process. The 15 tastings include a variety of styles: Blanc de Blancs, Noirs, vintage, non-dosed natural, and oak-aged Champagnes. The emphasis on Grand Cru and Premier Cru highlights the high-quality grapes used, making each sip special.

The Aroma Workshop & Educational Experience

A highlight is the playful aroma discovery workshop, where you’ll learn to recognize different scents associated with Champagne. This isn’t just fun; it’s educational, helping you appreciate what makes each glass unique. Reviewers mention the certificate you receive if you pass the olfactory test — a nice souvenir of your newfound wine knowledge.

Regional Food & Gourmet Pairings

What sets this tour apart is the focus on gastronomic pairings. At a local producer’s winery, you’ll enjoy a lunch featuring regional specialties like charcuterie, regional cheeses such as Chaource and Langres, and cured meats like Jambon de Reims. These are paired with the Champagne tastings, enhancing the flavors and offering a true taste of the region.

The pairings include classic items like duck rillettes, sea bass rillettes with truffle, and scallops. The desserts are equally regional, with a chocolate filled with ratafia and a Biscuit Rose — a traditional regional sweet originating in Reims. These pairings not only elevate the tasting experience but also give insight into local culinary customs.

Sampling Regional Spirits & Wines

Beyond Champagne, you’ll sample three famous Champagne alcohols. Ratafias, a lesser-known regional spirit, are featured, along with Fine de la Marne and Marc de Champagne, popular digestives. These are produced by the Goyard Distillery and offer a deeper understanding of regional distilling traditions.

For the more adventurous appetite, the tour includes Coteaux-Champenois, a regional wine with a CDO designation, often enjoyed with foie gras or snails. These lesser-known drinks add depth and variety to your day.

The End of the Day & Final Highlights

The day wraps up with a walk along the Avenue de Champagne, where you get a glimpse of the grand Champagne houses and the elegant architecture that has made Epernay famous. It’s a perfect way to soak in the region’s grandeur before returning to your starting point.

Transportation, Group Size, and Practicalities

Transportation is in a premium, air-conditioned vehicle, with options including electric Jeep cars, minivans, or larger vans depending on the group size and weather conditions. This flexibility ensures comfort for all travelers. The group is private, which means a tailored experience and the ability to ask more personalized questions.

Pickup and drop-off are included, with specific locations in Reims or Epernay, or on request for nearby villages within a 6 km radius. This makes the experience accessible regardless of your hotel location.

Duration & Flexibility

The tour lasts between 7 and 8 hours, enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. You can reserve your spot without immediate payment, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund — adding a layer of flexibility to your planning.

Price & Value

Considering the three estate visits, 15 tastings, gourmet meals, and educational workshops, this experience offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for foodies and wine enthusiasts looking for an immersive, well-rounded day that balances education, tasting, and regional culture.

Final Thoughts

This Food & Champagne Experience is ideal for travelers who want both a behind-the-scenes look at Champagne production and a culinary journey through the region’s best offerings. The combination of estate visits, tastings, workshops, and regional cuisine makes it a comprehensive and satisfying day out. The small group setting and private transport ensure a comfortable, personalized experience that’s as informative as it is enjoyable.

If you’re a fan of Champagne, local food, or simply want to understand why this region is so revered, this tour offers a perfect blend of authenticity and indulgence. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a relaxed pace, guided by passionate locals eager to share their craft.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in a premium, air-conditioned vehicle is included, with pickup and drop-off options in Reims or Epernay.

Can I customize the meeting point?
On request, you can ask for an alternative meeting place within 6 km of Reims, depending on your hotel or accommodation.

How long are the estate visits and tastings?
Visits to each estate and tasting sessions are scheduled to give enough time to enjoy each, with total tour duration around 7-8 hours.

What is the focus of the aroma workshop?
The workshop is playful and educational, helping you recognize different aromas in Champagne. If you pass the olfactory test, you’ll even get a knowledge certificate.

Are food allergies or dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, you should inform the tour provider in advance if you have food allergies or specific dietary requirements.

What types of Champagne are tasted?
You’ll sample a variety of styles: Grand Cru/Premier Cru, Blanc de Blancs, Noirs, vintage, natural non-dosed, and oak-aged Champagnes.

Is this tour suitable for vegan or vegetarian guests?
While specific dietary options aren’t mentioned, the focus is on regional Charcuterie, cheeses, and local specialties. It’s best to contact the provider beforehand for special requests.

This comprehensive tour offers a taste of Champagne’s finest, blending tradition, flavor, and local culture in one memorable day. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply curious about the region’s specialties, it’s a journey worth taking.

You can check availability for your dates here: