GRAND VINTAGE Taittinger Veuve Clicquot Cellars & Tastings

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of sipping bubbly right where it’s made, a private full-day tour of Champagne’s most iconic houses might just be your perfect escape. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on detailed reviews and descriptions, it promises an authentic, luxurious journey through the heart of France’s sparkling wine region.

What stands out—expert guides, luxury transport, and the opportunity to taste multiple cuvées—make this a compelling choice for wine lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a taste of French elegance. The trip also offers private pick-up from Paris and tiered pricing, making it flexible for different budgets and group sizes.

One thing to consider is that the full-day schedule runs about 11 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a packed itinerary and are comfortable with a long day of sightseeing and tasting. This experience suits those eager to learn, indulge, and see the Champagne region in style, without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Good To Know

• Luxury Transportation: Private Mercedes E220 or Minivan for comfort and style.
• Authentic Visits: Guided tours of Taittinger and Veuve Clicquot cellars with tastings.
• Historical & Cultural Stops: Reims Cathedral, a must-see for history and architecture lovers.
• Flexible Options: Tiered tasting packages including high-level cuvée tastings.
• All-Inclusive Feel: All taxes, fees, and bottled water included.
• Ideal for Small Groups: Private tours starting from just 2 participants.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Grand Vintage Taittinger & Veuve Clicquot Cellars Tour

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances sightseeing, education, and indulgence. The day begins early with a hotel pick-up in Paris—your luxury transport, either a Mercedes E220 or Minivan, will whisk you 140 km to the Champagne region along scenic vineyards, giving you a preview of the stunning landscape that produces your bubbly.

The Ride to Champagne: Scenic and Comfortable

The drive is about two hours, during which your guide—fluent in English—sets the tone for a relaxed day. Guests often mention that this part of the journey is the perfect time to settle in and soak up views of rolling vineyards and quaint Champagne villages. A rest stop at a local rest area offers a chance to stretch and refresh before the day’s tastings.

Taittinger Cellars & “Linstant Gourmet” Experience

Arriving at Taittinger around 10 AM, you’ll participate in a guided tour of the historic cellars. This visit, called “Linstant Gourmet,” is limited to 14 people, ensuring an intimate experience. Expect to learn about the maison’s history, production methods, and unique chalk cellar architecture, which is both impressive and essential for proper aging.

We loved the way the guide explained how Taittinger, founded in 1932, remains one of the few family-owned Champagne houses. The tasting includes two glasses: Prestige Rosé and Millésimé, chosen for their expression of quality and craftsmanship. Reviewers note the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm, with one saying, “The guide was very passionate and made the tour engaging even for those new to Champagne.”

Reims Cathedral: A Touch of Royal History

Just a quick 10-minute drive takes you to Reims Cathedral, where most French kings were crowned. It’s a self-guided stop, giving you flexibility to explore the façade, stained glass, and interior at your own pace. Many guests find this stop a highlight for its elegance and historical significance.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch Break in Reims

From 12:10 to 2 PM, you’ll have time to explore Reims on your own or opt for a restaurant reservation. The city offers a variety of cafes and bistros, where you can enjoy local specialties or simply relax with a glass of Champagne before heading to your next stop.

Veuve Clicquot Cellars & Tasting Options

The afternoon is dedicated to Veuve Clicquot, founded in 1772 and one of the most recognizable Champagne houses worldwide. The guided cellar tour reveals the company’s storied past and meticulous production process. You’ll learn about Madame Clicquot’s pioneering role in Champagne, which is often highlighted during the tour.

Guests are offered a choice among three high-level tasting options:

• Advanced (“Une Seule Qualite”): 1.5 hours, tasting 4 cuvées—Brut Carte Jaune, Extra Brut Extra Old, Vintage 2015, and Vintage Rosé 2015.

• Premium (“Madame Clicquot”): 1.5 hours, featuring comparative tastings of Brut Yellow Label in Magnum and La Grande Dame 2015.

• VIP (“L’art du vieillissement”): A 2-hour experience with four cuvées, including Vintage Brut 2015, Rosé 2015, a vintage 2002 Magnum, and Cave Privée 1990.

Reviewers praise the guides’ expertise, noting that “the knowledgeable staff made the experience special” and that the high-tier tastings made them appreciate Champagne’s complexity even more. These options are designed to suit different levels of interest and appreciation, from casual tasting to connoisseur-level exploration.

Return to Paris

After the Veuve Clicquot visit, the group departs around 4:30 PM, heading back to Paris. The drive back takes roughly 2.5 hours, with the journey ending around 6:30 PM. Guests often comment on how the scenic drive provides a relaxing wind-down, with many appreciating the quiet reflection on a day well spent.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Transport & Comfort

The private Mercedes vehicles offer a significant upgrade from standard coach tours. For small groups of 2-3 people, the E220 provides a luxurious, quiet ride. Larger groups up to 7 are accommodated in a spacious minivan. The comfort of the vehicle is a major plus, especially after a long day of tastings.

Tour Guides & Insights

The reviews repeatedly highlight the guides’ knowledgeable and engaging explanations. They’re not just narrators but storytellers, bringing history and production details to life. Guests mention guides’ ability to answer questions and share interesting anecdotes about the Champagne houses, making the experience more personal.

Tasting & High-Level Options

The tiered tasting packages elevate this tour beyond basic visits. Guests can choose a tasting experience that matches their interest, from sampling a handful of cuvées to comparing vintage and prestige bottles. The VIP option offers a deep dive into aging and cellar secrets, which is perfect for enthusiasts.

Historical & Cultural Stops

Reims Cathedral is a short but meaningful stop that adds cultural depth to the day. Visitors often comment on the beauty of the Gothic architecture and the chance to connect France’s royal history with the Champagne region.

Authenticity & Value

Guests consistently point out the authenticity of the visits—guided by staff who are passionate and well-informed—and the chance to taste multiple high-quality Champagnes. The inclusion of all taxes and bottled water adds to the feeling of a well-organized, hassle-free day.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for anyone who desires a comprehensive, luxurious introduction to Champagne. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a private, curated day without the stress of planning. If you’re a wine enthusiast or history buff, you’ll value the in-depth tours and tastings.

However, it’s a long day, so travelers should be comfortable with a full schedule and moderate physical activity—especially if exploring Reims Cathedral or walking through cellars.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a luxurious, well-structured way to discover the Champagne region, combining expert-guided cellar visits with historic and cultural highlights. The private transportation and tiered tasting options make it suitable for a range of budgets and interests, ensuring you can tailor your experience.

The knowledgeable guides and intimate group size foster a relaxed atmosphere where learning and tasting feel genuine and engaging. Whether you’re new to Champagne or an aficionado, this trip provides the perfect balance of education, indulgence, and style.

If you’re after a seamless, upscale Champagne experience that showcases the region’s best houses and provides high-quality tastings, this tour is a strong contender.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, this is a private group tour, starting from just 2 participants, which means a more personalized experience.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up and drop-off?
Absolutely. The package includes hotel pick-up in Paris and drop-off at your hotel, making it very convenient.

What types of transport are used?
A Mercedes E220 business class car for 2-3 people or a Mercedes Minivan for groups of 3-7, ensuring comfort and style.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included in the price, so you can explore local restaurants during the lunch break.

Can I customize the tasting experience?
Yes, there are tiered options for tastings—Advanced, Premium, and VIP—so you can choose based on your interest level.

Is this tour suitable for children or wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 6 years or wheelchair users, likely due to the nature of cellar visits and the full-day schedule.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended. No food or alcohol can be brought into the vehicle.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this private Champagne tour offers a wonderfully balanced blend of culture, history, and tastings, all delivered with a touch of luxury. It’s perfect for those who want a stress-free way to explore Champagne’s most famous houses with expert guides, in style and comfort. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your love of bubbles, you’ll find this experience both memorable and valuable.

You can check if your dates are available here: