Reims or Epernay: Full day Champagne Mumm, family grower & lunch

If you’re dreaming of sipping bubbly in the heart of France’s Champagne region without the hassle of organizing logistics yourself, a guided tour like this one offers a fantastic way to really understand and enjoy the process behind your favorite sparkling wines. The Reims or Epernay: Full Day Champagne Mumm, Family Grower & Lunch tour promises nearly eight hours of exploring Champagne’s historic cellars, picturesque villages, and intimate family wineries—plus plenty of tastings along the way. As many travelers have raved about it, a lot of the appeal lies in its combination of renowned prestige house visits, charming small producers, and a big-picture view of Champagne craftsmanship.

One possible consideration is that, at $289.64 per person, this isn’t a budget tour. But when you factor in the included transportation, multiple tastings, a traditional regional lunch, and personalized guides, you get serious value in an all-encompassing experience. Plus, with a limit of just eight people, you’re not packed into a tour bus but rather enjoying a comfortable, intimate journey—an ideal setup for deep learning and memorable moments.

What we love about this experience is the access to both big-name Champagne houses like G.H. Mumm and charming family run wineries. It’s a fantastic way to see a broad spectrum of Champagne production, from large-scale cellaring to handcrafted, traditional methods. Another highlight is the van transportation, which makes moving between small towns, vineyards, and cellars relaxing and effortless, letting you focus on soaking up the sights and stories. A slight drawback? The tour days book about two months in advance on average, so planning ahead is essential.

Highlights of the Reims or Epernay Full-Day Champagne Experience

• Visit a prestigious Champagne house such as G.H. Mumm and explore their underground cellars.
• Walk through UNESCO-listed vineyards in the Champagne region with knowledgeable guides explaining grape varieties.
• Enjoy a traditional regional lunch at a small, family-run winery, paired with Champagne and local specialties.
• Tour a family grower’s winery, experiencing handcrafted production methods often hidden from larger brands.
• Sample seven glasses of Champagne throughout the day, covering a range of styles and production processes.
• Discover Hautvillers, a charming village famous as the former home of Dom Pérignon.

The Itinerary and Why It Matters

Starting bright and early, the tour meets at the Reims train station before hopping into a cozy, air-conditioned minivan limited to just eight travelers. The small-group size really enhances the experience—just enough to keep it intimate but enough to get varied perspectives and conversation.

First stop: Maison G.H. Mumm. Here, you’re invited inside their renowned underground cellars, a highlight for wine lovers wanting a glimpse into large-scale Champagne production. You’ll learn about the history, fermentation, and aging process—all while sampling your first glass of the day, kicking off in style. Expect the tour to last around 1 hour and 30 minutes, with plenty of photo opportunities among the hundreds of wooden casks and storied underground tunnels.

Second stop: a visit to a small, family-run winery. According to reviews, this part really shines. Travelers consistently mention the warmth and authenticity of the hosts, and the chance to see traditional production methods. It’s a more personal experience—many describe it as “a highlight,” appreciating the opportunity to taste wine made with hands-on care. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours here, enjoying another guided tasting, this time paired with regional wine and Champagne.

Third stop: Hautvillers. This quaint village, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the spiritual home of Champagne as we know it. Once inhabited by monk Dom Pérignon, the village offers picture-perfect views of vineyards, cobbled streets, and a centuries-old church. You might find the walk through Hautvillers is a gentle, scenic stroll with interesting stories about how this area shaped Champagne’s history.

Lunch at a local family winery rounds out the day, lasting roughly two hours. The menu usually features regional specialties like Reims ham and rose biscuits, paired with complementary wines and Champagne. Many reviews mention the unexpected high quality of the meal, and the staff’s hospitality makes everyone feel welcome—added value for the price.

The final stop takes you back to the region’s smaller cellars for a final tasting, often focusing on family production’s traditional methods. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the different styles and the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

The Value and What It Means for Travelers

At just under $300 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive, immersive experience that’s hard to match in terms of both depth and authenticity. The inclusion of seven tastings, a scenic village visit, and a traditional lunch ensures that participants get a full taste of Champagne’s culture, landscape, and craft.

Many travelers appreciate the small-group format because it fosters conversations and a more relaxed atmosphere—reviewers describe guides as “extremely knowledgeable” and “fabulous.” For the price, you are not only paying for tastings but also for expert narration that helps you appreciate the differences between Champagne marques and the nuances of production.

The tour’s timing—around 7 hours and 50 minutes—strikes a good balance between covering enough ground and not overdoing it. You’ll return to Reims feeling like you’ve seen, tasted, and learned a lot but also had space to appreciate the region’s beauty.

One thing to note is the need to book well in advance, often about two months, due to the popularity of the tour and limited seats. Planning ahead ensures a spot on this well-rated experience that has a 99% recommendation rate and a perfect 5-star average from over 180 reviews.

Who Will Love This Tour

This tour is ideal for wine and Champagne enthusiasts eager to understand the craft from vine to bottle. If you prefer structured and guided trips with expert narration, this is a standout choice. It’s also perfect for those who want to sample a diverse range of Champagnes—from well-known houses to small producers—and experience the landscape that inspires the region’s wines.

Travelers who appreciate authentic, family-run businesses will enjoy seeing how traditional methods are still alive and accessible. The inclusion of regional specialties and a leisurely pace makes it suitable for casual wine lovers and travelers seeking a cultural day out.

While it’s suitable for most adults, children under 10 are not recommended, and space is limited, so it’s not the best option for spontaneous bookings. The focus on wine tastings and the well-organized, intimate setting makes this tour well worth the cost for those wanting a true taste of Champagne.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transport from and back to Reims in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of eight participants, providing a more personalized and relaxed experience compared to large bus tours.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours and 50 minutes, offering time to enjoy multiple visits, tastings, and a leisurely lunch without feeling rushed.

Are all tastings included?
Yes, you’ll taste seven glasses of Champagne, with expert guidance helping you understand each style. Tastings also include regional wines and Champagne paired with lunch.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and exploring cellar tunnels is recommended. Since some cellars are underground, it can be cool, so a light jacket might be helpful.

Can I book this tour last minute?
It’s best to reserve well in advance—about two months ahead—since it books out quickly, especially in peak seasons.

The Bottom Line

This full-day Champagne tour from Reims offers an excellent blend of large Champagne house history, intimate family producer experiences, and regional charm. Expect to learn a lot, taste many different styles, and see some of France’s most beautiful vineyards and villages. It’s a top choice for travelers who want the most comprehensive, authentic, and personalized Champagne experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Ideal for wine lovers, curious travelers, and those wishing to deepen their appreciation of Champagne’s craftsmanship, this tour balances informative guidance with friendly hospitality. While the price tag might make you pause, the quality and variety of experiences provided make it very good value—especially when you consider the memorable moments and new knowledge you’ll take home.

For those craving a day that blends history, scenic vistas, delicious food, and sparkling wine, this tour is hard to beat. Just remember to book early, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a bubbly adventure you’ll fondly remember!