Ruinart Champagne Cellars Tastings Private trip from Paris

Traveling to France and dreaming of a sophisticated day among world-class vineyards and historic champagne houses? If so, a private trip to Ruinart in Reims offers an exceptional way to indulge in the sparkling luxury of Champagne. This tour promises a blend of history, tasting excellence, and the chance to see one of the oldest Champagne houses dating back to 1729.

Our review highlights the elegance of private transportation, the richness of guided cellar tours, and the allure of tasting multiple cuvées. However, you’ll want to consider the full day’s commitment and the need to be comfortable with a structured schedule. This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples, or friends eager to explore Champagne’s finest offerings in a relaxed, personalized setting.

Good To Know

• Exclusive private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
• Two curated experiences allow you to tailor the visit to your wine preferences.
• Guided cellar tours provide detailed insights into Champagne production, led by knowledgeable staff.
• Includes a self-guided visit to Reims Cathedral, adding a cultural touch.
• Flexible drop-off options in Paris make this a convenient day trip.
• Cost reflects premium experiences, making it a worthwhile investment for wine lovers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Expert-Led Journey into Champagne’s Heritage

This tour offers a well-structured day exploring Ruinart’s historic cellars and tasting some of the finest Champagnes France has to offer. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Paris in a comfortable Mercedes E220 or a spacious minivan. The roughly two-hour drive to Reims winds through scenic vineyards, giving you your first glimpse of Champagne’s picturesque landscape.

Once in Reims, the highlight is the guided visit to Ruinart’s cellars. Established in 1729, Ruinart claims the title of the oldest Champagne house still in operation, and its long-standing reputation is palpable. The guided tour by Ruinart staff provides a fascinating look into traditional Champagne production, from grape pressing to the aging process, with many visitors noting the knowledgeable guides who make complex processes understandable and engaging.

The Cellar Tours: Two Choices, One Quality

You’re offered two options, both featuring a guided cellar visit but with different tasting focuses:

• Visite des Crayères: Lasting about 1.5 to 2 hours, this option gives you the chance to taste two glasses of Champagne. It’s perfect if you want a rundown without a heavy tasting session.

• Signature Chardonnay: Also around 2 hours, this option features three glasses of Blanc de Blanc — including special editions like Ruinart Blanc Singulier Editions 17 and 19. Expect to sample a variety of cuvées, which is ideal for those keen to explore different styles and vintages.

Guests have appreciated the depth of the cellar exploration and the chance to understand what makes Ruinart unique. Reviewers mention that the staff are very professional and willing to share insights, which adds value beyond just tasting.

Enjoying Reims: Culture and Cuisine

After the cellar experience, you’re taken to Reims city center for a self-guided visit of the cathedral. This UNESCO-listed site is famous for being the traditional coronation church of French kings. Many travelers enjoy the opportunity to marvel at the Gothic architecture and stained glass windows at their own pace.

Lunch is scheduled in Reims, giving you freedom to explore local restaurants or grab a quick bite on your own. The tour operator can assist in making restaurant reservations, which is a smart move if you want to avoid the hassle of searching during your limited time.

Back on the road, you’ll head back to Paris, typically arriving around 4:30 pm. The drive offers a relaxing end to your day, with plenty of time to reflect on the morning’s tastings and sights. Drop-off can be at your hotel or any preferred location within Paris, adding a layer of convenience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the best aspects of this experience is its private nature. With your own chauffeur and personalized itinerary, you avoid the crowded, noisy group tours often found in larger coach trips. The tiered pricing structure means you can select the experience that best matches your interests, whether it’s a quick overview or a more extensive tasting.

The transportation is a major plus — a sleek Mercedes ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, and the driver is dedicated to punctuality rather than guiding, so if you want more in-depth commentary, you’ll need to add the live guide for an extra fee.

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Authenticity and Value

While the price of $568 per person might seem high, it includes several significant elements — private transfer, guided cellar tours, multiple tastings, entrance fees, and Reims Cathedral visit. Considering the personalized service and the opportunity to taste premium cuvées like Ruinart Blanc Singulier Editions, many feel this represents good value.

Guests have described the guided tours as informative and engaging, noting guides like “very knowledgeable” and “passionate about Champagne.” The carefully curated experience makes this trip ideal for those who appreciate quality, history, and authentic Champagne experiences in a day.

Transportation and Logistics

The transport setup is straightforward — a luxury Mercedes E220 or a minivan suited for small private groups. The pick-up time is around 07:30 am, but travelers should be aware that timing can shift slightly due to traffic or other factors, which is common for day trips. The journey includes a rest stop, giving you a chance to stretch and enjoy the scenery.

Travel Time and Comfort

The drive from Paris to Reims is approximately 2 hours, with the return trip taking a similar amount of time, making for a long but comfortable day. The vehicle is described as comfortable, and bottled water is provided, ensuring hydration throughout the day.

Accessibility and Suitability

It’s important to note that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes and clothes. Food and drinks are not permitted in the vehicle, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This private trip to Ruinart offers a unique opportunity to experience Champagne’s grand heritage in an intimate setting. The guided cellar tours are a standout feature, especially if you’re eager to learn about Champagne production from passionate staff. The inclusion of Reims Cathedral adds cultural depth to the day, making it more than just a tasting.

The convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off, combined with the flexibility of choosing different experiences, makes this a hassle-free way to indulge in Champagne without the crowds. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or small groups who want a high-quality, personalized day out.

Given the focus on authentic tasting, expert-guided tours, and seamless logistics, this experience offers significant value — especially if you’re a wine enthusiast or a history lover looking to deepen your appreciation of Champagne.

FAQ

What is included in the tour package?
The package covers private transportation in a Mercedes E220 or minivan, an English-guided visit to Ruinart’s cellars with tastings, the self-guided visit to Reims Cathedral, all fees and taxes, and bottled water.

How long is the drive from Paris to Reims?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours each way, traveling through scenic vineyards and Champagne landscapes.

Are there options for different tasting experiences?
Yes, you can choose between two experiences: a 1.5–2 hour cellar tour with 2 glasses of Champagne or a similar tour with 3 glasses of Blanc de Blanc and special editions.

Can I customize the experience?
While the tour is structured around two main options, you can opt for the experience that best suits your interests. Additional guides are available for a surcharge if you want a live guide during the trip.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but the tour offers time in Reims for you to explore local restaurants or cafes. The operator can assist with reservations.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking during the cathedral visit and cellar tour.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and the walking involved may be challenging for some. Travelers should plan accordingly.

What happens if traffic delays affect the schedule?
Timings can shift slightly due to traffic, but the total duration remains fixed. The driver is responsible for punctuality, but guides are not included in the standard package unless booked separately.

In essence, this private Ruinart Champagne tour from Paris delivers an elegant, insightful, and personalized experience, perfect for those looking to combine historic charm with exquisite tasting in the heart of Champagne.

You can check if your dates are available here: