Paris: Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot Champagne Tour by Mercedes

If you’re longing to experience France’s most celebrated bubbly in its homeland, this Champagne tour from Paris offers an enticing blend of history, luxury, and tastings. While not a cheap day, the $802 price tag promises personalized attention, exclusive visits, and high-quality tastings—all in the comfort of a private Mercedes vehicle.

Our review of this experience highlights the thoughtful itinerary, the quality of the champagne houses, and the added touches like hotel pickup and guided tours. However, it’s worth considering that the day is quite packed, with around 11.5 hours of touring, and is best suited for those with a keen interest in Champagne, wine lovers, or travelers craving a luxurious, behind-the-scenes look at the region.

Three things we love about this tour are the guided cellar visits at two iconic Champagne houses, the choice of tasting options that cater to different preferences, and the luxury transport which makes the long day both comfortable and stylish. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour price might be steep for some, especially since meals and drinks are not included. But if exclusivity and in-depth Champagne experiences matter most, this tour fits the bill well.

This experience is perfect for those who want a luxurious, informative, and memorable day trip that combines history, stunning scenery, and world-class Champagne. It’s especially suitable for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a curated, hassle-free adventure outside Paris.

Good To Know

• Luxury transportation in Mercedes E220 or minivan offers comfort and style for small groups.
• Guided cellar tours at Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot provide insider insights into Champagne production.
• Multiple tasting options cater to different levels of interest and expertise.
• Private hotel pickup and drop-off ensure convenience in the busy Paris area.
• Flexible scheduling with guaranteed departures and tiered pricing.
• Cultural highlights, including Reims Cathedral, add a historical touch to the trip.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Champagne Experience

Starting the Day: Luxurious Pickup and Scenic Drive

The day begins with a hotel pickup in Paris, a major plus in terms of convenience. The Mercedes E220, designed for 2-3 people, or the spacious minivan for up to 7, promises a smooth and stylish ride through French countryside. The drive to Reims takes about 2 hours, during which you’ll enjoy the views of rolling vineyards and sun-dappled fields—perfect for pretending you’re in a wine commercial.

Guests have praised the driver’s professionalism and the comfort of the vehicle, which sets a relaxed tone for the day. One reviewer noted, “The car and driver were perfect,” emphasizing how this aspect adds a layer of ease to the long day.

Reims: The Champagne Capital

Upon arrival, your first stop is at Ruinart, established in 1729—a name that resonates with Champagne enthusiasts. This house, recognized as the oldest Champagne producer, boasts UNESCO-listed underground cellars, which are a highlight of the tour. The guided visit offers a rare glimpse into the Champagne-making process, with knowledgeable staff explaining the unique methods used since the 18th century. Expect to taste two glasses of Champagne, allowing you to appreciate the nuanced flavors rooted in history.

One reviewer appreciated the expert guides, stating, “The guide was very knowledgeable, and the cellar visit was fascinating.” This indicates that the guides are well-trained and passionate about sharing their expertise.

Reims: Lunch and Cultural Charm

After the cellar visit, you’ll have about 1.5 hours for lunch in Reims. The tour offers flexibility—you can explore on your own or opt for a restaurant reservation, ensuring you get to savor local cuisine. Reims itself is a charming city with a stunning cathedral, where most French kings were crowned. The self-guided visit to Reims Cathedral of Notre Dame provides a chance to admire its Gothic architecture and soak in regal history.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Veuve Clicquot: The Iconic House

Next, the journey continues to Veuve Clicquot, founded in 1772. This house produces over 22 million bottles annually and boasts a network of UNESCO-listed cellars, making it one of the most recognizable names in Champagne.

The guided tour here includes a deep dive into the house’s legacy, and you get to choose from various tasting options that suit different interests:

• The “Une Seule Qualite” option features four cuvées, including Vintage 2015 and Rosé 2015.
• The “Madame Clicquot” tasting compares Brut Yellow Label in Magnum with La Grande Dame 2015.
• The most comprehensive, the “L’art du vieillissement” option, offers a 2-hour tasting of four vintage Champagnes, including a private cellar experience.
• For the connoisseur, “La Grande Dame” tasting includes three high-end cuvées, and extends the visit by about 1.5 hours.

One guest remarked, “The tasting was superb, and the guides made the experience feel exclusive,” underscoring the value of the curated tasting options.

End of Day: Return to Paris

After completing the tastings, the group departs for Paris around 4:30 pm. The return journey lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day. The experience concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, perfect for unwinding after a full day of exploration.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides and Cellar Visits

The guided tours at Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot are designed to provide more than just tasting; they reveal the craftsmanship and tradition behind each Champagne house. Guests have highlighted the knowledgeability of the guides—some described them as very passionate and informative, which enhances the overall experience.

Tasting Quality and Variety

The different tasting tiers cater to a range of preferences. The “Une Seule Qualite” option offers a good introduction with four cuvées, ideal for those new to Champagne. On the other hand, the “L’art du vieillissement” and “La Grande Dame” options are tailored for aficionados wanting a deeper dive into vintage and prestige cuvées.

Convenience and Comfort

Having hotel pickup and drop-off within Paris is convenient, especially in a city where transportation can be unpredictable. The private vehicle ensures a quiet, comfortable ride, avoiding crowded buses or trains—particularly valuable after a long day of tasting and touring.

Flexibility and Tiered Pricing

The tiered pricing system allows travelers to choose a tasting experience that matches their curiosity and budget. Guaranteed departures mean you can plan confidently, and the tour provider is ready to offer alternative options if specific visits aren’t available on your date.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the experience offers a high level of exclusivity, the cost can seem steep—especially as meals and drinks are not included. For those on a tighter budget, combining this with additional expenses might be a concern.

The long duration (11.5 hours) could be tiring, especially if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing or have limited mobility. Also, the tour is not suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users, which might limit families or travelers with specific needs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate finer things, are eager to learn about Champagne, and enjoy luxurious, guided experiences. It’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking personalized attention, and those willing to invest in a memorable, in-depth exploration of Champagne’s heritage and flavors.

If your priority is a relaxed, casual day or a focus on sightseeing rather than premium tastings, other options may be more suitable. But if you want a combination of history, luxury, and tastings in a well-organized package, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQs About the Champagne Tour

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes luxury transportation in a Mercedes E220 for small groups or a minivan for larger groups, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Paris.

Can I customize the tastings? The tour offers different tasting packages, from a modest four-cuvee experience to high-end vintage tastings, allowing some flexibility based on your interests.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts approximately 11.5 hours, including travel, cellar visits, and free time in Reims.

What are the meal options? Lunch is not included, but you can choose to explore Reims on your own or reserve a restaurant ahead of time. The tour provides flexibility for a personalized dining experience.

Are children allowed on this tour? No, the tour is not suitable for children under 6 years old, mainly due to the nature of the visits and tasting activities.

What happens if a visit isn’t available on my chosen date? The provider will offer a suitable alternative or a higher-level experience, with the option to accept or cancel free of charge.

Final Thoughts

This private Champagne tour from Paris offers a luxurious, educational, and delicious day in the heart of France’s most famous wine region. The combination of historic cellars, expertly curated tastings, and stylish transport makes for a memorable experience well worth the price for lovers of fine bubbles and cultural discovery.

While it demands a significant time and monetary commitment, the personalized approach and high-quality visits provide real value. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to indulge in France’s Champagne heritage without the hassle of planning, while enjoying the comfort of a private, guided adventure.

In summary, if you’re after an elegant, in-depth Champagne experience that combines history, taste, and style, this tour ticks all the right boxes. For those who appreciate a touch of luxury and expert-guided insights, it’s a sparkling choice.

You can check if your dates are available here: