Reims or Epernay: Short day family growers & lunch

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Exploring Champagne: A Day of Vineyards, Family Wineries, and French Cuisine

When it comes to indulging in France’s most iconic bubbly, few experiences match the charm and authenticity of a guided tour through Champagne’s legendary vineyards. This particular tour, offered by À la Française Champagne, promises not just tastings but a genuine look into the region’s soul — from the bustling Avenue de Champagne in Epernay to a cozy family-run winery. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand, and while it’s clear this tour shines in many ways, a few considerations are worth keeping in mind.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guides add a personal touch that elevates the journey. Second, visiting small, family-run wineries offers an authentic peek at traditional winemaking. Lastly, the lunch paired with champagne makes the whole day a true celebration of French lifestyle. A minor note? The tour’s 7-hour length could be a bit long for those with limited stamina, but overall, it’s a well-balanced, immersive experience.

This tour appeals most to those who love champagne, want a personal connection to the producers, and enjoy a relaxed, yet informative day out. It’s also ideal for travelers seeking a small-group setting for a more intimate experience. Let’s dive into what this tour involves and why it might become your favorite day in Champagne.

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Key Points

Authentic Experience: Visit a family-run winery and learn about traditional champagne making.
Beautiful Scenery: Drive along Epernay’s Avenue de Champagne and see UNESCO vineyards.
Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the storytelling and tasting experience.
Cultural Highlights: Explore the charming village of Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon’s church.
Gourmet Lunch: Enjoy a meal paired with champagne, emphasizing French cuisine and lifestyle.
Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

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A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Meeting Point and Timing

Your adventure kicks off at 11:15 am at Reims train station, where your friendly guide will greet you. The small group size (max 8 people) promises a cozy, personal experience, avoiding the crowds that sometimes come with larger tours. From there, a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan whisks you away into the heart of Champagne.

Drive Along Avenue de Champagne

The first highlight is a leisurely drive down Avenue de Champagne in Epernay. This street is lined with some of the most prestigious champagne houses—Pol Roger, Perrier-Jouët, Mercier, Boizel, and Moët & Chandon—making it a visual feast for champagne lovers. While you might not tour these giants on this trip, seeing their facades and hearing the stories behind them sets the tone for the day.

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UNESCO Vineyards and Hautvillers

Next, your guide will stop at the UNESCO World Heritage vineyards. Here, you’ll learn about the region’s viticulture and what makes these vineyards so special. Travelers report that the views of the rolling hills and neat rows of vines are stunning and perfect for photos.

A short stroll takes you to Hautvillers, a picture-perfect village often called the birthplace of champagne. The highlight? Visiting Dom Pérignon’s church, where the monk credited with pioneering sparkling wine in the region is buried. Reviewers like Jennifer appreciated the stunning viewpoints, which provide not only beautiful photo opportunities but also a sense of connection to Champagne’s heritage.

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Visit to a Family-Run Winery

The real magic unfolds when you arrive at a small, family-run champagne estate. Unlike the large commercial maisons, these wineries often boast a more personal atmosphere, where you’ll see the traditional winemaking process up close. Reviewers like Nancy appreciated the interactive, informal approach, with guides sharing insights that only insiders know.

At this stop, you’ll enjoy tastings of five different glasses of champagne, each offering distinct flavors, styles, and nuances. This diversity helps you understand how champagne can vary based on production techniques, grape blends, and aging.

Lunch Paired with Champagne

One of the tour’s true highlights is the lunch in a champagne estate. The meal is thoughtfully paired with a selection of champagnes, showcasing how food and bubbles can complement each other beautifully. Guests have described the lunch as delicious and setting a relaxed, indulgent tone for the afternoon.

Dietary restrictions are accommodated if communicated in advance, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience. The pairing emphasizes French lifestyle, with a focus on fresh ingredients and proper presentation.

Post-Lunch Exploration and Return

After a full day of tasting, sightseeing, and learning, your guide will escort you back to Reims, dropping you off around 5:30 pm. This gives ample time to reflect on the day, perhaps plan your next champagne adventure, or enjoy a quiet evening in Reims.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Anne, who bring enthusiasm and inside knowledge. Jennifer called her “an excellent guide,” while others appreciated the informal, engaging style that made complex topics accessible.

The value for money is another frequent compliment. David mentioned the “superb” setting, the wide range of tasting options, and the knowledgeable guide as making this tour highly recommendable. The inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, tastings, and lunch makes it a convenient and worthwhile choice for those who want a comprehensive Champagne experience without the hassle of organizing multiple visits.

Practical Details & Considerations

Duration and Group Size

This is a 7-hour tour, starting mid-morning and ending in the early evening. The small group size (maximum 8) ensures personalized attention, making it a more relaxed, intimate experience than larger coach tours.

Price and Value

While the tour isn’t cheap, it offers a lot of value — including transport, multiple tastings, entrance fees, and a gourmet lunch. For wine lovers looking for an authentic, behind-the-scenes experience, the cost is justified when considering the quality and depth of engagement.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The tour is designed for adults, with a minimum age of 18. It does not accommodate pets, non-folding wheelchairs, or strollers, which may be worth noting if traveling with special needs or young children.

Weather and Preparation

Running in all weather conditions, you should dress comfortably and be prepared for potentially variable weather in the vineyards and village. Booking trains in advance is recommended if you’re coming from outside Reims to ensure availability.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for champagne enthusiasts eager to learn beyond the tasting glass. It suits those who appreciate small-group intimacy and want to see the authentic side of Champagne’s champagne production. If you’re interested in local traditions, scenic views, and French cuisine, this tour checks all the boxes.

However, if you prefer a more fast-paced, large-scale tasting tour, or are traveling with children, this might not be the best fit. It’s also best suited for adults over 18 and those comfortable with moderate walking and sitting for extended periods.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transport by air-conditioned minivan is included, with pick-up and drop-off at Reims train station.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Absolutely, dietary requirements and allergies can be considered if you inform the tour provider during booking.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a guide, transport, entrance fees for visits and tastings at two wineries, five glasses of champagne, and a lunch in a champagne estate.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Vegetarian options are available, but it’s advisable to specify your needs at booking to ensure proper accommodations.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 11:15 am and concluding around 5:30 pm.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Can I bring children?
This tour is only for travelers aged 18 and over, due to the nature of wine tasting and alcohol consumption.

Final Thoughts

This Reims or Epernay tour focusing on family growers and lunch offers a well-rounded glimpse into Champagne’s world — blending insider visits, stunning scenery, and delicious food. The small-group setting fosters a personalized experience, making it ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for an authentic, educational day.

The combination of expert guides, intimate winery visits, and a memorable French lunch creates a warm, engaging atmosphere that’s hard to match. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to deepen their appreciation of champagne without the crowds or overly commercialized tours.

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this tour manages to strike a nice balance between fun, education, and indulgence — all set amidst some of France’s most beautiful countryside. If you’re seeking a genuine taste of Champagne’s traditions with a touch of luxury, this experience could very well be your favorite day in the region.

End of review

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