Bubbly Champagne
a Grapetrotters Adventure in September
Experience the harvest month with Pierre Gouttenoire in Reims and indulge in a feast fit for royalty! Explore extraordinary Champagne houses in the Vallée de la Marne, Montagne de Reims, and Côte des Bar wine regions. Immerse yourself in three glamorous days in the world's premier sparkling wine region.
Monday, September 2 - 2024
ARRIVAL IN REIMS, GUIDED VISIT & WELCOME DINNER
Arrive at the hotel in the afternoon, and following check-in, we'll gather for a guided tour of Reims city, exploring its beautiful Cathedral. On this initial evening, relish a welcome dinner accompanied by an introduction to Champagne.
Please note that the most convenient travel to and from Reims is by TGV train from Paris, taking approximately 45 minutes.
Tuesday, September 3 - 2024
LA VALLEE DE LA MARNE, CHAMPAGNE & BRIE
Today, we embark on a journey to explore the renowned Vallée de la Marne, celebrated for its Pinot Meunier-based wines and the presence of small Champagne vignerons, particularly those practicing biodynamic methods.
Between two Champagne visits and tastings, we'll pause at a Brie cheese dairy, showcasing another local delicacy and one of France's most iconic cheeses.
Lunch will be arranged at one of the wineries. We'll conclude our first day with a visit to a famous Champagne House in Reims.
The evening is yours to enjoy freely in Reims—whether to rest, explore, or indulge in more food and drinks (or perhaps a bit of everything!).
Wednesday, September 4 - 2024
LA MONTAGNE DE REIMS & EPERNAY
Today, we delve deeper into the nuances of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in Champagne, exploring the Epernay region to comprehend the terroir effect and the Echelle Des Crus.
Our itinerary includes visits to three wineries, with one being the renowned Champagne House situated on Avenue de Champagne. A delightful lunch awaits, accompanied by more fine wines.
Take a break in the charming village of Hautvilliers.
The evening in Reims is yours to unwind, explore, or indulge in more food and drinks (or perhaps a bit of everything!).
Thursday, September 5 - 2024
LA CÔTE DES BARS
In La Côte des Bars, we embark on a journey to explore the southern part of the Champagne AOC, discovering the unique Rosé de Riceys wines. Our lunch will be served at a local winery.
In the evening, a special dinner awaits us in Reims, graciously hosted by a renowned Champagne House.
Friday, September 6 - 2024
DEPARTURE
Following breakfast at the hotel, proceed with check-out and departure.
What's included
4 nights' accommodation with breakfast in 4-star Hotel in Reims
Private bus with driver for 3 full days
Winery visits & tastings, group activities, guided visits and tickets
All meals in great local restaurants or farms (wine included)
City lodging visitor tax
Grape Tours' tour leader (Pierre Gouttenoire - French Wine Scholar)
Not included
Airfare & travel to and from starting/departure point.
Drinks at meals unless host-ordered
Entry to any museums, historical sites unless noted
Personal charges, laundry, phone calls, internet, mini fridge consumed items
Travel Insurance
Gratuities for maids, baggage handlers, drivers or guides
Other trip details
The tour will start and end in Reims (easy to get to by train from Paris)
This tour will be confirmed with a minimum of 8 people and a max of 16.
We recommend booking well in advance (see more booking info here).
Pricing
All-inclusive cost per person (based on double room occupancy): 2900 euro
(single occupancy 3200 euro/p.p.)