Book your must-see house first
Popular slots at the major houses can sell out quickly, especially on Friday afternoons and Saturdays. Secure that visit first, then plan your hotel, restaurants and other stops around it.
Practical guide
Twelve tips for a well-planned weekend.
A few sensible choices will save you unnecessary travel, sold-out tours and a lunch squeezed between appointments.
Our adviceMax. 2
Plan no more than two tours or substantial tastings a day.
Plan no more than two tastings a day
Two substantial tours are usually enough for one day. Combine one major house with one smaller appointment and you will have more time for questions, lunch and transport.
Bring a layer, even in summer
The chalk cellars stay cool even when it is warm outside. Wear closed shoes with a good grip, as many visits involve old stairs and uneven floors.
Choose carefully between Reims and Épernay
Reims is a larger city and its Champagne houses are spread out. Épernay is more compact and better placed for trips to Aÿ, Hautvillers and the Côte des Blancs.
Contact small growers in advance
Many growers welcome visitors by appointment only. Include your date, group size and preferred language in your message, and wait for confirmation before setting off.
Ask for a spittoon
Tasting does not mean finishing every glass. Using a spittoon is completely normal at a serious tasting, especially if you are driving later or visiting more than one house.
Choose the experience, not just the label
A famous name does not tell you what the tour will include. Decide whether you most want to see cellars, production, art, vineyards or a smaller grower.
Give the Côte des Bar enough time
The southern wine region is a long drive from Reims. Stay in Troyes or Les Riceys if you want to explore it without rushing.
Leave enough time for lunch
Restaurants outside the cities often have limited opening hours, and a grower visit may run over. Allow plenty of time and book if there is somewhere you particularly want to eat.
Check the language for your exact tour
The same house may offer several tours in different languages. Our filters show only confirmed information, but the current slot on the official booking page is always decisive.
Do not assume a taxi will be available
Transport is easy to arrange in Reims and Épernay, but much less so in the villages. Book a driver or tour ahead and agree exactly where you will be collected after each appointment.
Keep bottles cool and out of the light
Do not leave purchases in a warm car for hours. Ask the house about travel packaging and check the import rules for your destination before you leave.
Start with your base
Decide where you want to stay first.
Compare Reims, Épernay and the wine regions first. It then becomes much easier to see which houses fit your route.
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