Marne is the heart of Champagne country, famous for its sparkling wines, picturesque vineyards, and centuries-old traditions. If you’re planning a visit, you’ll find no shortage of tours that showcase this region’s unique charm. Among the many options, we’ve selected three standout experiences: from hands-on workshops to sensory adventures and exhilarating vineyard explorations. We love that these tours cater to different interests—whether you want to understand the nuances of Chardonnay, engage all your senses, or explore the landscapes by buggy. For a deeper dive, check out the Champagne Vincent d’Astrée: Blanc de Blancs Workshop for an intimate tasting, or the Vineyard buggy tour for an active day in the vines.
Quick Overview
We’ve gathered three diverse Champagne experiences in Marne: a comparative blanc de blancs tasting that explores Chardonnay styles, a sensory workshop that uses all five senses for an unforgettable tasting, and a scenic buggy tour that whisks you through the vineyards with expert commentary. Each offers a different way to experience this iconic region, whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned aficionado. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions to help you choose the perfect tour.
1. Champagne Vincent d’Astrée: Blanc de Blancs Workshop
At number one, we recommend the Blanc de Blancs Workshop, priced at $59 per person for about an hour of tasting. This tour offers a rare opportunity to compare three distinct styles of Blanc de Blancs champagnes—each made solely from Chardonnay grapes. During this experience in Pierry, a small town in Grand Est, you’ll learn how time and winemaking techniques influence the flavor and style of Champagne.
What makes this workshop stand out is its focus on educating while indulging your taste buds. You’ll taste wines that vary in age and style, gaining insight into how a Chardonnay’s character evolves over time and with different production methods. The guide’s explanations are clear and approachable, perfect for those new to Champagne or anyone interested in the subtleties of this grape. The setting feels authentic and intimate, giving you a genuine taste of local craftsmanship.
Given the modest price and engaging format, this tour offers excellent value, especially for couples or small groups eager to deepen their understanding of Champagne. It’s ideal if you prefer a focused, educational experience without extensive travel or large groups. Bottom line: A perfect choice for curious wine lovers wanting to understand what makes Blanc de Blancs unique.
2. Champagne Vincent d’Astrée: Sensory Workshop
Coming in at number two is the Sensory Workshop, priced at $82 per person for an hour-long session. This experience is less about technical details and more about how your senses perceive Champagne. Held in Pierry, this workshop invites you to discover three exceptional champagnes through a specially designed tasting that involves sight, smell, taste, touch, and hearing.
What sets this experience apart is its interactive and accessible approach—no jargon or previous wine knowledge needed. You might be asked to describe aromas, textures, or even identify subtle differences in bubbles. It’s a fun, convivial way to appreciate Champagne on a deeper level, making it ideal for those who love an unusual and engaging tasting. The focus on emotion and pleasure makes this workshop memorable, and it’s suitable for all kinds of travelers—whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur seeking a fresh perspective.
Guests frequently comment on how immersive and joyful the experience is, with one noting how “it opened my eyes to the complexity of Champagne beyond just drinking it.” If you’re after a sensory adventure that combines learning with fun, this workshop offers excellent value for its intimate setting.
Bottom line: A lively, sensory-focused experience that makes Champagne tasting accessible and memorable for everyone.
3. Champagne vineyards: 2-hour guided tour of the vineyards in a Buggy
For travelers seeking adventure and a true feel for the landscape, the Buggy Vineyard Tour is a standout. Designed for up to two people at $538, this 2.5-hour experience in the Grand Est region explores the Champagne vineyards in a fun, informal way. Vincent, your guide and host, will take you across the rolling hills in a sturdy buggy, sharing insights into vineyard work, the evolution of the vines, and the secrets behind Champagne production.
What makes this tour special is its seasonal flexibility—each visit is tailored to what’s happening in the vineyards at the time, whether it’s pruning in winter or grape harvesting in late summer. The scenic landscapes are breathtaking, and the buggy ride offers a relaxed, intimate way to see the countryside without the fatigue of walking. Plus, Vincent emphasizes conviviality and sharing, making it a sociable experience that’s perfect for small groups or couples.
During the tour, you’ll also enjoy tastings of local Champagne, combining nature, discovery, and tasting into one experience. Guests who’ve taken this tour describe it as “a delightful way to learn about the region while having fun,” highlighting the personalized approach. While the price is higher, the all-in-one nature of the experience—viewing, learning, and tasting—offers excellent value for those wanting an active, immersive day.
Bottom line: An engaging, scenic tour perfect for active travelers who want to see the vineyards in a relaxed, informal setting.
How to Choose Your Perfect Champagne Tour
When selecting the best Champagne tour in Marne, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re a curious beginner eager to understand the nuances of Blanc de Blancs, the Blanc de Blancs Workshop is an ideal choice. For a fun, sensory experience, the Sensory Workshop offers an engaging introduction suitable for all. If your focus is on scenery and active exploration, the Buggy Vineyard Tour provides a memorable, scenic adventure.
Budget-wise, the tasting workshops are affordable options, while the buggy tour is a more premium experience suited to those wanting a full-day outing. Think about your fitness level and whether you prefer a seated tasting or an active day in the vineyards.
Booking early is advised, especially for the buggy tour, which has limited availability. Visiting in late spring or early fall allows you to enjoy the vineyards at their most picturesque, with the added benefit of fewer crowds.
Final Thoughts
Marne offers an impressive variety of wine-related experiences that cater to different interests and budgets. Whether you want to deepen your understanding of Champagne styles, indulge your senses in a convivial setting, or explore the landscape in a fun buggy ride, there’s something here for you. The Blanc de Blancs Workshop and the Sensory Workshop are perfect for those seeking educational and sensory delights, while the Buggy Vineyard Tour suits travelers eager for a scenic adventure.
No matter which you choose, booking ahead and choosing the right time of year will ensure you enjoy the best of what Marne’s Champagne country has to offer. Cheers to a sparkling trip!