Epernay Champagne Tour: Everything you need to plan your trip

Planning your dream Epernay itinerary? Then you’ve come to the right place! An Epernay Champagne tour is at the top of everyone’s list, and for good reason. But with so much to see and experience in the Champagne capital, it can be tricky to know where to start.

As a local, I’m here to help you plan the ultimate Epernay adventure. In my experience, three activities are essential to truly immerse yourself in the world of Champagne: a guided tour through the vineyards, an Epernay Champagne house tour, and a guided tasting or masterclass. Each offers unique insights and complements the others perfectly. Ready to pop open the secrets of Epernay? Let’s get started!

Epernay Champagne Tour: Why you need a knowledgeable guide

Taking a guided Epernay Champagne tour is hands-down one of the best decisions you’ll make when visiting this region. Why? Because you’ll have a passionate Champagne expert by your side, eager to share their knowledge and love for all things bubbly! There are a variety of Epernay Champagne tours available for every budget, from private excursions to group tours.

I highly recommend opting for a guided tour, especially one that brings into the vineyards. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the year-round work that goes into crafting those bottles. While learning about the champagne-making process (or “champagnisation”) is fascinating, understanding the vineyard side of things is equally important.

Plus, many guided Champagne tours from Epernay extend outside the city center. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the picturesque vineyards, especially if you don’t have a car.

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing several Champagne tours in Epernay. Here are three unique options I highly recommend:

• Vintage Vibes: Journey back in time with a tour in a classic 1980s van, complete with a tasting amidst the vines. It’s the perfect way to experience the region’s charm and expertise firsthand.
• Double-Decker Delights: Hop aboard a classic English double-decker bus for a tour along the prestigious Avenue de Champagne. Enjoy breathtaking views of the vineyards from the rooftop deck.
• Silent and Sustainable: For a tranquil and eco-friendly experience, opt for a tour in a silent electric car. You’ll enjoy the scenery without any distractions.

Top Tips for Booking Your Epernay Champagne Tour:

• Don’t hesitate to contact your tour operator. Inquire about pickup options from your BnB or hotel and get a detailed itinerary.
• Booking platforms offer flexibility. Easily compare tours, choose your preferred language, and check availability – like Viator, Winalist, and Rue des Vignerons.
• Book early! Especially during peak season, popular Epernay Champagne tours tend to fill up quickly.

Choosing your Epernay Champagne House tour

Visiting Epernay without stepping inside a Champagne House? It’s possible, but you’d be missing out on a truly essential experience! The Avenue de Champagne, with its majestic houses and miles of underground cellars, is a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason.

Epernay is best known for these “Grandes maisons”. However, you can find a taste of small-batch production, too! I always recommend my guests experience both sides of Champagne production: the grandeur of a big house and the personalized charm of an independent winemaker.

The choice of Champagne Houses offering tours in Epernay can feel overwhelming. To help you decide, here’s a breakdown of your options, both on and off the iconic Avenue de Champagne:

Avenue de Champagne Houses (Epernay Champagne Tour Must-Dos!)

• 👉 Champagne Moët & Chandon
• 👉 Champagne Mercier
• 👉 Champagne De Castellane
• 👉 Champagne Comtesse Lafond
• 👉 Champagne Boizel
• 👉 Champagne De Venoge
• 👉 Champagne Elodie D

Other Epernay Champagne Houses Worth a Visit:

• 👉 Champagne Leclerc Briant
• 👉 Champagne Jacquinot & Fils (steps from the Avenue) – Experience the personal touch of an independent winemaker at this small, family-run estate.
• 👉 ❤️Champagne Gosset (steps from the Avenue)
• 👉 Champagne Alfred Gratien (steps from the Avenue)
• 👉 Champagne Charles Mignon

Elevate your experience with a Champagne tasting or masterclass

You’ve walked through beautiful vineyards and learned how champagne is made in the impressive cellars of an Epernay Champagne House. Now, it’s time to try delicious champagnes and experience their unique flavors with a guided tasting or a special class called a “masterclass.”

Champagne tastings: What to expect

Champagne tastings are easy to find in Epernay. You can often find them at welcoming champagne bars or right at the champagne houses. It’s the perfect way to try different types of champagne, called “cuvées,” and learn the basics from an expert.

What happens at a champagne tasting?

• Discover the three main grapes used to make Champagne – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Learn how each grape creates special flavors.
• Every champagne house has its own way of making champagne, resulting in a unique taste. During the tasting, you’ll discover the special qualities of the champagnes from that place.
• Some tastings will help you learn about the different smells and tastes in champagne. Imagine flavors like fresh citrus fruits or buttery brioche bread!

Remember, each tasting is different. Some places might teach you a lot about the flavors, while others might just tell you the name of the champagne and the grapes it’s made from. If you want a tasting that focuses on exploring flavors, it’s a good idea to ask about it before you go.

I’m always on the hunt for the best tasting experiences to recommend, and these spots in Epernay consistently receive rave reviews online. I haven’t had the chance to try them all personally yet, except for the Pierre Mignon Boutique, but once I do, I’ll be sure to add my own notes and recommendations!

• Champagne Perrier-Jouët
  • Known for its elegant champagnes and beautiful gardens, this house offers a range of tasting experiences.
• Champagne Leclerc Briant (25 bis de l’avenue de Champagne)
  • Discover the world of biodynamic champagne at their stylish tasting space, offering both indoor and outdoor seating in the summer.
• Champagne Michel Gonet
  • Test your taste buds with their unique blind tasting experience.
• Champagne Pierre Mignon : For a truly exceptional experience, I highly recommend seeking out a tasting led by their sommelier, Ludovic. His passion for champagne, extensive knowledge, and engaging approach are truly unforgettable!
  • Compare 5 Champagnes with Cheese and Charcuterie for 70€ per person.
  • Millésime Trilogy : Explore the refined elegance of their three Vintage Cuvées for 40€ per person.
  • Dosage Trilogy : Experience their 3 cuvées, each with unique dosages and ageing times for 32€ per person.
  • Rosé Trilogy : Comparative tasting of 3 rosés for 30€ per person.
  • Trilogy Blanc de Blancs: Compare their Blanc de Blancs to appreciate the impact of dosage and ageing for 28€ per person.

My Local Tip: As with everything, when you book, you’re sure to have the tasting you desire; everything is prepared and anticipated, and the sommelier is present. Last-minute reservations are also fine, but I recommend booking in advance, even though walk-ins for a tasting are possible.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Your host is happy to share their knowledge about anything related to champagne.

Become a Champagne Expert with a masterclass

If you want to learn even more about champagne, try a “masterclass.” These classes are designed for people who already know a bit about wine, like sommeliers, winemakers, or big champagne fans. But anyone who loves champagne can join!

What happens in a champagne masterclass?

• Learn Like a Pro: Explore advanced topics about how champagne is made, like the importance of the soil and weather (“terroir”), how different years create different tastes (“vintage”), special techniques used by winemakers, and which foods pair well with champagne.
• Compare Different Champagnes: Try several champagnes side-by-side and notice the differences. You’ll learn how the type of grape, the terroir, and how long the champagne is aged can change its flavor.
• Listen to the Masters: Learn directly from people who have spent years perfecting their knowledge of champagne. They are passionate about sharing their expertise!

Here is my recommendation for a masterclass in Epernay:

• Join an interactive session with a specialist to explore the secrets of Champagne, guided by sommelier Ludovic. Enjoy tasting 6 cuvées paired with 3 dishes, as you delve into the history and terroir of Champagne for an unforgettable sensory experience, perfect for both amateurs and connoisseurs.

Epernay Champagne tours with in-depth tastings

Want to go beyond a standard cellar tour and tasting? Experience the world of Champagne in a whole new way with a guided tour that includes a dedicated tasting experience!

These experiences often take you behind the scenes at smaller, independent wineries. You’ll get to meet the passionate people who grow the grapes and craft the champagne, and you’ll see firsthand ALL the steps involved, from vine to bottle. Plus, you’ll have a dedicated guide to answer all your questions along the way.

Here are some of my top recommendations for unforgettable tour and tasting combinations:

• Learn While You Taste
  • Just a short drive from Epernay in the village of Mareuil-sur-Ay, this tasting and workshop is a great value. For €30, you get a tour of the cellars AND a guided tasting with fun activities and explanations about aromas, grape varieties, and more. It’s a truly engaging experience! For an additional €35, you can enhance your visit with a delightful lunch featuring local specialties and a special wine pairing – a perfect way to immerse yourself in the region’s diverse flavors.
• Blind Tasting in Pierry
  • A few minutes from Epernay, this family-run champagne house in Pierry offers a unique blind tasting experience along with a cellar tour for 28€.
• Vintage Charm & Passionate Guides:
  • This excellent tour company offers two fantastic options. For a full-day adventure, book their private tour, which includes a delicious lunch, a traditional champagne sabering, visits to two wineries, multiple tastings, and a scenic vineyard tour. If you prefer a shorter experience, their three-hour tour includes a tasting, a vineyard tour, and fascinating insights into grape growing, all led by enthusiastic guides in a classic French vintage car. It’s the perfect blend of charm and knowledge!

Can’t find the perfect fit among these options? Explore platforms like Viator, Winalist, and Rue des Vignerons for even more fantastic Epernay champagne experiences.

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There you have it – your guide to experiencing the very best of Epernay’s champagne scene, from exploring Champagne Houses to venturing off the beaten path with a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a seasoned champagne enthusiast, cheers to planning your perfect champagne adventure! 🍷🥂

Epernay Champagne Tours: Your questions answered

What is the difference between a Champagne tasting and a Champagne masterclass?

A masterclass offers a deep dive into Champagne with a certified sommelier or industry expert, while tastings can be simpler and shorter experiences.

Besides champagne houses, what else is there to see and do in Epernay?

Epernay is full of charm! Explore its unique architecture, fascinating museums, and don’t miss the chance to catch a breathtaking sunset over the vineyards. Check out my article on [link to your Epernay activities article] for more ideas!

Can I bring children on an Epernay Champagne tour?

Yes, children are generally welcome, but it’s always best to inform your tour guide in advance so they can tailor the experience if needed.

I’m vegetarian/vegan. Are there any food options available on Epernay Champagne tours?

Good news: Champagne itself is vegan-friendly! For food pairings or meals, be sure to let your tour guide know about any dietary restrictions beforehand so they can assist you with suitable options.

Is there a dress code for visiting champagne houses in Epernay?

No strict dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking, and keep in mind that cellars stay around 52°F (11°C) year-round. Leave those high heels at home! 😉