How to Experience Epernay: A Guided Tour of Champagne Cellar With Tastings

If you’re planning a trip to Champagne, France, and love to savor vintage champagne, taking a guided tour of a champagne cellar is a must-do activity. With the Epernay Guided Tour of Champagne Cellar with Tastings, you’ll have the opportunity to visit one of the premium champagne houses in the Marne Valley and taste three different kinds of champagnes.

Highlights

– Visit the Vollereaux Champagne House in the Marne Valley – Taste 3 different champagnes and learn about how it is made – Take a 1-hour guided tour of the champagne house and cellar

Experience

The tour will begin with a visit to the Vollereaux Champagne House in the Marne Valley of Champagne. This is a family-owned champagne house that was founded in 1805 and has been handed down through six generations. The house covers more than 100 acres of land, and the family grows grapes in the 13 villages of Coteaux Sud d’Epernay. Once you reach the Champagne house, your tour guide will greet you and take you on a one-hour guided visit of the historic cellars. You’ll get a chance to explore the wine cellar, where you’ll learn about the family’s history and the champagne making process. The tour guide will explain the “Methode Champenoise,” the traditional method of producing champagne. The family management at the Vollereaux Champagne House has continued for a period of 200 years, and the guide will tell you all about it. During the tour, you’ll discover how the 6th generation of the Vollereaux family continues the legacy of the family’s management at the champagne house. After the guided tour, you’ll be taken for a champagne tasting experience. You’ll have the opportunity to savor three different champagnes produced by Vollereaux Champagne House. The taste of each champagne is unique, and you’ll also learn about the different types of champagne and the best way to serve champagne.

Full Description of the Tour

If you’re looking for a guided tour of a champagne cellar, the Epernay Guided Tour of Champagne Cellar with Tastings is an excellent option. The tour is conducted at the Vollereaux Champagne House in the Marne Valley of Champagne, starting with a guided visit of the historic cellars. On the tour, you’ll learn about the history of the Vollereaux Champagne House and the champagne-making process, from grape harvesting to fermentation to aging. You will also discover how the house was founded in 1805 and now covers over 100 acres, where family management has continued for 200 years. The tour guide will take you through the historic cellars, where you’ll learn about the “Methode Champenoise,” the traditional method of producing champagne. You’ll see the grapes crushed, and the wine will be fermented in oak barrels. You’ll then learn about the secondary fermentation that takes place in the bottle, producing the carbonation that makes champagne so unique. After the guided tour, you’ll go to a tasting room where you’ll be given an opportunity to taste three different champagnes produced by Vollereaux Champagne House. You’ll learn about the difference between different champagnes and the right way to serve champagne. The tour ends with ample time to purchase some bottles of champagne to take home with you.

What’s Included

The tour includes a guided visit of the historic cellars, champagne tasting of three different champagnes.

How to Book the Tour

You can book the Epernay Guided Tour of Champagne Cellar with Tastings using the following link: book tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re looking for an amazing experience on your trip to Champagne, France, you cannot miss taking a guided tour of a champagne class. The Epernay Guided Tour of Champagne Cellar with Tastings will give you a chance to learn about the history and production of champagne at the Vollereaux Champagne House in the Marne Valley of Champagne. This tour is perfect for anyone interested in learning about the rich history of champagne and savoring some of the best champagnes available in the region.

FAQs about Champagne

1. What is Champagne?

Champagne is a sparkling wine that is exclusively produced in the Champagne region of France. It is made using a specific set of grape varieties and has to undergo a secondary fermentation process in the bottle to create its characteristic bubbles.

2. What grape varieties are used to make Champagne?

The three main grape varieties used in the production of Champagne are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Chardonnay is a white grape variety, while Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are both red grape varieties.

3. How is Champagne made?

Champagne is made using a specific production method known as the traditional method or méthode champenoise. The first step is to create a still wine, which is then bottled with yeast and sugar to start a secondary fermentation process. This process creates the carbon dioxide that gives Champagne its bubbles. After the secondary fermentation is complete, the wine is aged in the bottle for a period of time, during which it develops its characteristic flavors and aromas.

4. What are the different styles of Champagne?

There are several different styles of Champagne, including:

• Brut, which is the driest style of Champagne
• Extra dry, which has a slightly sweeter taste than Brut
• Demi-sec, which is a sweet Champagne and is typically consumed with dessert
• Rosé, which is a pink Champagne made by adding a small amount of red wine to the blend
• Blanc de blancs, which is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes
• Blanc de noirs, which is made exclusively from Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier grapes

5. What food pairings go well with Champagne?

Champagne is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods. Some classic food pairings include:

• Oysters or other shellfish
• Caviar
• Smoked salmon
• Foie gras
• Soft cheeses like brie or camembert
• White meat like chicken or turkey

6. Can Champagne only be produced in the Champagne region of France?

Yes, according to French law, the term “Champagne” can only be used for sparkling wines produced in the Champagne region of France using specific production methods and grape varieties. Wines produced in other regions or using different methods cannot legally be called Champagne.

7. How should I store Champagne?

Champagne should be stored in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature of around 50-55°F (10-13°C). It should be kept at an angle to prevent the cork from drying out and allowing air into the bottle, which can cause the wine to spoil. Champagne should also be stored away from vibrations and strong odors, which can affect the flavor of the wine.

8. How long can Champagne be aged?

The aging potential of Champagne depends on the specific wine and the vintage, but most Champagnes are best consumed within a few years of purchase. Vintage Champagnes can age for longer periods of time, sometimes up to 20-30 years or more, but they should be stored carefully and evaluated periodically to make sure they are still in good condition.

9. Can Champagne be consumed as a cocktail?

Yes, Champagne is a popular ingredient in cocktails like the classic Champagne cocktail, which consists of Champagne, sugar, bitters, and a lemon twist. Other popular Champagne cocktails include the Mimosa (Champagne and orange juice), the Bellini (Champagne and peach juice), and the French 75 (Champagne, gin, lemon juice, and sugar).

10. Is Champagne expensive?

Champagne can be expensive, but there are also many affordable options available. The price of Champagne depends on several factors, including the producer, the vintage, and the style. Non-vintage Champagnes are typically less expensive than vintage Champagnes, and smaller producers may offer more affordable options than larger, well-known brands.

11. Are there any health benefits to drinking Champagne?

Like other types of wine, Champagne contains antioxidants that may help to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of certain health conditions, including heart disease and some types of cancer. However, it is important to consume alcohol in moderation, and excessive drinking can have negative health impacts.

12. Can I visit Champagne and do a wine tour?

Yes, the Champagne region of France is a popular destination for wine tourism, with many wineries offering tours and tastings. Some of the most famous Champagne houses, including Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, offer guided tours of their production facilities and tastings of their wines. There are also several small, family-run wineries in the region that offer a more intimate wine-tasting experience.

13. What is the best time of year to visit Champagne?

The Champagne region can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. The fall harvest season (September-November) is a popular time to visit for wine enthusiasts, while the summer months (June-August) are popular for outdoor activities and exploring the region’s historic sites.

14. How do I get to Champagne?

The Champagne region is located in northeastern France, and can be accessed by car, train, or plane. The closest major airports are in Paris and Reims, both of which offer connections to other cities in Europe and around the world. From Paris, you can also take a high-speed train to Reims or Epernay, which are both located in the heart of the Champagne region.

Overall, Champagne is a fascinating and complex wine that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a special occasion drink. With its unique production methods, diverse styles, and rich history, Champagne is truly one of the world’s most iconic wines.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Champagne

Champagne is a unique and charming region of France that is famous for producing the world-renowned Champagne wine. The region is dotted with picturesque vineyards, quaint villages, and historic towns. It is a popular destination for tourists all around the world, who come to explore the vineyards, taste the wine, and soak up the culture. In this guide, we will show you the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Champagne.

Explore the Vineyards

The Champagne region is home to some of the most picturesque vineyards in France. Exploring the vineyards and the wine-making process is a great way to experience the culture of Champagne. You can visit some of the famous vineyards, such as the Moet & Chandon, Pommery, and Veuve Clicquot, for a tour and a tasting session.

Visit the Champagne Houses

Champagne houses are some of the most famous tourist attractions in the Champagne region. Here, you can learn about the history of Champagne, the wine-making process, and, of course, taste some of the world’s best Champagne. There are a lot of Champagne houses to choose from, such as Bollinger, Taittinger, and Nicolas Feuillatte, just to name a few.

Enjoy the Cuisine

Champagne is known for its gastronomy, so it is a must-try while visiting the region. The local cuisine is a blend of traditional French cuisine with influences from neighboring countries. The region is famous for its cheeses, such as the Brie de Meaux, as well as the local specialties like Andouillette, a type of sausage made from pork intestines.

Discover the Historic Towns

The Champagne region is home to many historic towns, each with a unique charm and history. A visit to these towns is a great way to explore the culture of Champagne. Some of the most famous towns include Reims, known for its cathedral where the Kings of France were once crowned, and Epernay, the “capital” of Champagne, where many of the famous Champagne houses are located.

Experience the Festivals

If you happen to be in Champagne during the festivals, you will be in for a treat. There are many festivals that take place during the year, celebrating the culture and heritage of the region. The most famous festival is the “Habits de Lumière,” which takes place in Epernay, where the town is transformed into a spectacular show of lights, music, and Champagne.

Enjoy the Scenery

The Champagne region is a beautiful place to explore, with breathtaking views of the vineyards and countryside. You can take a bike tour to explore the vineyards or take a hot air balloon ride to get a bird’s eye view of the region. There are also many hiking trails, parks, and gardens to explore, including the Jardin de la Presle in Reims.

Book Your Tour Now

Champagne is a unique and charming region of France that offers a variety of experiences for tourists to enjoy. From exploring the vineyards and historic towns to experiencing the festivals and enjoying the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Champagne. So, if you are planning a trip to France, be sure to add Champagne to your itinerary.