Champagne Mercier Cellars

Discover the Champagne region of France on a shared or private wine-tasting tour from Paris. Explore a top champagne house and a family-owned winery, with plenty of wine tastings and a traditional French lunch during the day. Start with pickup from your centrally-located hotel in Paris. Meet your driver-guide and travel in a cozy air-conditioned minivan to the Champagne region. Enjoy tasty croissants on the way, while your guide tells you all you need to know about the sparkling universe of champagne. Once you arrive in Champagne, start your day with a visit to a prestigious champagne estate (one of Moët & Chandon, Mumm, Veuve Clicquot, Mercier, Pommery, Lanson or Nicolas Feuillatte). Discover never-ending galleries filled with bottles and of course, finish the guided tour with a tasting. Continue the journey and admire the landscapes as you make your way to a tranquil vineyard. Enjoy a tasting of local led by your expert guide. Discover the basics of professional wine tasting, and how to identify the characteristics of each wine. Stop for lunch in a family-run champagne house or at a top local restaurant. Taste several glasses of champagne such as Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, Champagne Rosé, and ratafias (sweet liqueur). Pair the wines with a delicious lunch of authentic French cuisine. After lunch, enjoy a digestive tour through the vineyard of the Côte des Blancs and Vallée de la Marne. Learn the characteristics of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier, and enjoy amazing views over the vineyard. Last, but not least, visit another family-run winery where you may learn the art of sabrage or disgorgement “à la volée” (a technique for opening a champagne bottle). Taste several delicious champagnes before heading back to Paris, where you will be dropped off in a central area.

DISCOVER | TRAVEL | EXPLORE Day Trip from Paris to Champagne-Ardenne Embark on a delightful day trip from the bustling city of Paris to the serene and enchanting region of Champagne-Ardenne. This journey is not only a feast for the senses but also a deep dive into the rich history and intricate art of champagne making. Discover the secrets behind the world-famous bubbly, visit ancient cellars, and toast to the legacy of Dom Pérignon in the picturesque vineyards of Aÿ-Champagne. Discover the Secrets of Champagne Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the French countryside, where rolling hills and verdant vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. Upon arrival in Champagne-Ardenne, prepare to be immersed in the fascinating world of champagne, the drink synonymous with celebration and luxury. Visit to Historic Cellars Start your exploration with a tour of one of the region's renowned champagne cellars. These historic underground cellars are not just storage spaces but are integral to the production process. As you wander through the dimly lit passageways, you'll learn about the méthode champenoise, the traditional process that gives champagne its signature effervescence and flavor. During the tour, knowledgeable guides will share insights into the aging process, the delicate balance of flavors, and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. Champagne Tasting Experience No visit to Champagne-Ardenne is complete without sampling its most famous export. Following the cellar tour, indulge in a tasting session featuring a selection of exquisite champagnes. Savor the complex aromas and flavors of each glass, from the crisp, refreshing notes of a Brut to the rich, full-bodied texture of a Vintage. Explore the Legacy of Dom Pérignon Next, delve into the legacy of Dom Pérignon, the legendary monk often credited with pioneering techniques that revolutionized sparkling wine production. Visit the charming village of Aÿ-Champagne, where Dom Pérignon once lived and worked. Visit the Vineyards of Aÿ-Champagne The vineyards of Aÿ-Champagne are a sight to behold. Stroll through the lush rows of vines, soaking in the tranquil beauty and learning about the unique terroir that contributes to the distinctive taste of the region's champagne. Here, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate process that transforms humble grapes into the world’s most celebrated sparkling wine. Concluding Your Day As your day in Champagne-Ardenne comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the rich history, the artistry of winemaking, and the unforgettable flavors that have made this region a must-visit destination for champagne enthusiasts. With a newfound appreciation for this iconic beverage, return to Paris with memories to cherish and perhaps a bottle or two to commemorate your journey.