Champagne House Cellar Visit: Reims & Epernay Guide

Champagne Cellar Visit: Which Grand Maison Will You Choose?

So, you’re dreaming of Champagne? You’re picturing yourself sipping bubbly in cool, chalky cellars, right? Well, let me tell you, a Champagne cellar visit is an absolute must when you’re in the region.

Now, you’ll find two types of producers here: the “Grandes Maisons” – think big names like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot – and the smaller, independent producers. Both are amazing, but for that jaw-dropping experience of centuries-old cellars and sheer scale, the Grandes Maisons in Reims and Epernay are unforgettable.

Speaking of Reims and Epernay, these charming towns are where you’ll find most of the big names. A little tip from a local (that’s me!): To make the most of your time, book your cellar visits in the same town as your accommodation. Trust me, 35 minutes between Reims and Epernay might not seem like much, but it adds up, especially on a short trip!

So, which Champagne House offers the most impressive cellars? You’ll discover it quickly enough ;).
What should you expect during a Champagne cellar tour? Discover the secrets of champagne-making. How do you book a Champagne House cellar visit in advance? Absolutely – to make sure you get the visit you want!

Ready to delve into the world of Champagne? Let’s explore the best cellar visits in Reims and Epernay!

Where to sleep in Epernay – Champagne Region ?

Studio 86
Epernay

2 people Studio Kitchenette Bathroom

Terrasse 86
Epernay

Up to 6 people 2 bedrooms Kitchen 2 Bathrooms Rooftop Terrace

Jacuzzi 86
Epernay

Up to 4 people 2 bedrooms Kitchen 2 Bathrooms Outdoor Terrace

Magnum 80
Epernay

Up to 6 people 3 bedrooms Kitchen 2 Bathrooms Outdoor Terrace

Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Please drink responsibly.

Champagne Moët et Chandon – Epernay

Discover the Grandeur of Moët & Chandon: The Most Famous Champagne Cellar Visit in Epernay

Champagne House Moet et Chandon cellar visit

Let’s be honest, Moët & Chandon needs no introduction. This powerhouse has made Champagne synonymous with celebration across the globe. Even if you opt for a different cellar tour, I urge you to step inside their dazzling shopping space. It’s Moët & Chandon through and through – opulent and impressive.

And don’t miss the majestic statue of Dom Pérignon gracing the Avenue de Champagne. It’s a free photo-op and a grand reminder of the man who revolutionized Champagne.

Champagne Mercier – Epernay

A Family-Friendly Champagne Cellar Visit

Pro tip: Did you know? Champagne Mercier and Moët & Chandon belong to the same Champagne house!

Visit Champagne Mercier - Epernay - Champagne region - Best champagne cellar visit with kids

Next up is Mercier, a Champagne House Cellar Visit that will charm both young and old. Hop aboard their adorable little train for a whimsical ride through the champagne wine cellars. Even if you choose to skip the tour, make sure to step inside the entrance.

Trust me, you won’t miss the colossal cask on display. It’s an engineering marvel and a testament to the ambition of Eugène Mercier. Learn how this behemoth made its way to the World’s Fair – a fascinating free exhibit!

Champagne Boizel Atelier 1834 – Epernay 🤍

Fall in Love with Champagne: A Stunning Cellar Visit at Boizel in Epernay

Pro tip: Use Rue des Vignerons to easily check availability, closures, and tour language options when planning your Champagne visits.

Visit Champagne house Boizel Epernay Avenue de Champagne

My heart skips a beat when I think of Boizel. This is where my love affair with champagne wine cellar tours began. It was the first cellar I ever explored, and it left me utterly spellbound.

The sheer scale and beauty of the cellars are awe-inspiring. Boizel made me realize that a visit to a grand Champagne house is an absolute must when in the region. It’s an experience that transcends a love for wine – it’s a journey into history, craftsmanship, and pure magic.

Champagne Alfred Gratien – Epernay

Exquisite Champagne Cellar Visit and Tasting

Pro tip: Champagne cellars are kept at 11°C (52°F), so don’t forget to bring a jacket to stay warm during your tour.

Champagne tasting In Epernay - Champagne Alfred Gratien

Unlike some grand houses that start you off with their entry-level champagnes, Alfred Gratien welcomes you with open arms (and a flute of their iconic Cuvée Paradis). Yes, you read that right, paradise awaits, just steps away from the Avenue de Champagne.

Their commitment to showcasing their best from the get-go speaks volumes about their confidence and the exceptional quality of their champagne. Prepare to be wowed.

Champagne De Venoge – Epernay

A Unique Champagne Cellar Visit: Discover the Heritage and Innovation at De Venoge

Pro tip: For non-drinkers, including children and expecting mothers, some Champagne houses offer discounted rates—be sure to ask when booking!

Cellaer visit at champagne de Venoge Epernay

For a cellar tour that’s as captivating as it is unique, head to De Venoge. Their cellars are a fascinating blend of old and new, with modern design seamlessly integrated into the historic space.

I found their approach incredibly refreshing, especially if you’ve already experienced the traditional champagne wine cellars of Epernay or Reims. And for a final touch of whimsy, raise a toast with Louis XV at the tasting – cheers!

Champagne De Castellane – Epernay

A Champagne Cellar Visit and Tower Experience

Champagne de Castellane cellar visit in Epernay

De Castellane might be a bit more traditional in its approach (think phone calls and emails for reservations), but trust me, it’s worth the effort. I’ve visited four times, and each time has been a delight.

What sets them apart? The opportunity to climb the Castellane Tower either before or after your cellar tour. Be warned, those 200+ steps are a workout, but the panoramic views of Epernay are your reward. Plus, it’s a great way to get your heart rate up before indulging in more champagne.

Champagne Leclerc Briant – Epernay

An Innovative Cellar Visit

Leclerc Briant champagne house Avenue de Champagne Epernay

Leclerc Briant is a pioneer in biodynamic champagne production, and their passion shines through in their cellar tour. They’ll even give you a glimpse into their experiments with gold-plated vats, transparent tanks, and even eggs!

Their cellars are a sight to behold, and their flagship cuvée, Abyss, is as intriguing as it is delicious. Aged 60 meters below the sea, it’s a testament to their innovative spirit. Prepare to be amazed.

Where to stay in Champagne Region ?

Book the best accommodation in top Champagne towns

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Champagne Jacquinot et Fils – Epernay

Authentic Champagne Cellar Visit

Champagne Jacquinot epernay cellar visit

For a taste of authentic, small-producer Champagne, seek out Jacquinot & Fils, the only “small” Champagne House in Epernay. If you’re short on time and want to experience both a grand house and a smaller producer, this is your perfect match.

Perched on the hills overlooking Epernay, it offers a charming escape from the grandeur of the Avenue de Champagne. The tours are affordably priced, and the tasting is a true delight.

Champagne Gosset – Epernay 🤍

A Masterpiece of Prestige and History

Champagne Gosset - Cellar visit

Prepare to be wowed. Gosset embodies the perfect blend of prestige, history, and exceptional champagne. The cellars are adorned with names etched during various wars, a poignant reminder of the resilience of this region.

The tour is impeccably presented, with small groups ensuring a personalized experience. In the summer, their charming terrace beckons, offering a serene setting to savor a glass of champagne amidst a lush, green park. A true slice of paradise.

Champagne Vranken Pommery – Reims

The “Wow” Factor at Vranken Pommery

Visit The Champagne House Vranken Pommery - One of the most beautiful champagne house in Reims

Prepare to have your breath taken away at Vranken Pommery! This house is an absolute feast for the eyes, with its grand architecture and sprawling network of cellars. I highly recommend the guided tour to truly understand the history and heritage of this iconic Champagne house.

But what truly sets Vranken Pommery apart is its dedication to art. The rotating exhibits within the cellars blend perfectly with the ambiance, creating a truly unique and immersive experience. You’ll find yourself wanting to linger, taking in the art, the history, and of course, the exquisite Champagne.

And don’t miss the chance to visit the Pommery estate itself, including the stunning Villa Demoiselle, a boutique hotel that’s a masterpiece of Art Deco and Art Nouveau design.

Champagne Veuve Clicquot – Reims 🤍

The Ultimate Champagne Cellar Visit Experience

Champagne Veuve Clicquot Cella Visit in Reims Champagne France

My personal favorite, Veuve Clicquot, is more than just a champagne wine cellar; it’s a tribute to a woman’s incredible journey in a male-dominated world. The story of Madame Clicquot, the young widow who turned her husband’s business into a global empire, will leave you in awe. But the true magic happens when you descend into their breathtaking cellars.

Picture this: rows upon rows of aging champagne bottles stretching as far as the eye can see, the scent of yeast and history hanging in the air, and then… a tasting within the cool, quiet beauty of the cellar tour. Trust me; it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left the cellars.

Champagne Lanson – Reims

Where Vineyards Meet the City

Champagne Lanson cellar visit in reims Champagne France

Did you know that you can find a vineyard right in the heart of Reims? Head to Champagne Lanson, and you’ll discover a one-hectare Chardonnay vineyard nestled right in their city-center estate. It’s a testament to their commitment to tradition and a sight that’ll make you smile.

Beyond the urban vineyard, Lanson offers a fantastic cellar tour, where you can witness firsthand the meticulous process of Champagne making, from grape to glass. The warm hospitality at Lanson makes you feel like a welcomed guest, adding to the overall charm of the experience.

Champagne Mumm – Reims

Champagne Cellar Visits for Wine Enthusiasts

Champagne Mumm cellar visit in Reims

Experience a blend of tradition and innovation at Mumm, where you can enjoy a classic cellar tour or indulge in a unique culinary experience at “La Table des Chefs,” a restaurant featuring rotating young chefs.

Book your hotel for your stay in Champagne

My tip: book your hotel in Champagne as early as you can, especially during high season. Prices go up as the date approaches, and the best deals tend to sell out fast. For hassle-free booking, I personally recommend Booking due to its user-friendly interface, flexible cancellation policies, and wide range of accommodations, from charming guesthouses to luxury hotels. Plus, the more you use it, the more perks you unlock, like the Genius loyalty program offering exclusive benefits.

I book my accommodation on Booking

Champagne Taittinger – Reims

Discover the Secrets of Champagne Making in Historic Cellars

Champagne HouseTaittinger - One of the most beautiful champagne house in Reims

After undergoing extensive renovations, Taittinger has reopened its doors with a brand-new visitor experience. Early reviews are glowing, promising a fresh perspective on this esteemed Champagne House. Delve 18 meters underground into the 4th-century Crayères, marveling at the scale and beauty of these ancient cellars. With its fresh approach and dedication to innovation, Taittinger offers a captivating glimpse into both the history and future of Champagne.

Champagne Ruinart – Reims

Immerse Yourself in the Rich Heritage of Champagne Through Cellar Visits

Champagne Ruinart in Reims France

For a truly majestic experience, descend into the Crayères – chalk quarries dating back to Roman times – at Ruinart. These UNESCO World Heritage Site cellars, spanning an impressive 8 kilometers, offer an awe-inspiring setting for discovering the secrets of their prestigious Champagnes. Imagine strolling through these grand, chalk-carved tunnels, the silence broken only by the occasional pop of a distant bottle. It’s a journey through time, a testament to Champagne’s rich history and the dedication of those who craft it.

Champagne Jacquart – Reims

Uncork the Magic

Tastin at Champagne Jacquart in reims champagne France

While Jacquart doesn’t offer traditional cellar tours, they focus on intimate tasting experiences and masterclasses. This is a wonderful option for seasoned Champagne lovers looking to deepen their knowledge and palate.


So there you have it – Incredible Champagne Houses, each offering a unique glimpse into the world of Champagne production. A Champagne cellar visit is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Now, the only question is, which one will you explore first?


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