Overview: Join RTT for an unforgettable excursion to the Champagne Region of France! The unique combination of climate, altitude, chalky hillsides and miles of underground limestone cellars are what make the production of this bubbly blended wine possible.

Wines from the Champagne region have been well known since the Middle Ages.  Since the 18^th century European royalty have appreciated the Champagne wines. The still wines were used in religious sacraments and for anointing the French kings in Reims.  It was the association with the royal coronations which led to the popularity of champagne as we know it today - bringing the status of luxury and power.  There are many sparkling wines which claim to be champagne, but only wines produced in this region are given the honoured title of “champagne”.          Even today champagnes are associated with luxury, festivities and rites of passage.

Itinerary:  Travel directly to Epernay, home to the famous cellars of Moet & Chandon where the champagne of the stars, Dom Perignon is made. Upon arrival in Epernay, descend into the 250 year old cellar where over a million bottles of champagne are made and aged.   The English-speaking guide will explain the history of this prestigious house and the methods employed to make the famous Moet & Chandon champagnes. During the tour you will see how this famous wine variety is developed, changed and aged.  Explanations will be given about development of champagne bottles and corks, aging of champagnes, and the different sizes of champagne bottles.  End with a tasting of one champagne (included).  The in-house boutique provides the opportunity to purchase all their champagnes (and associated luxury articles), including the esteemed Dom Perignon. 

Our next stop will be Reims, the famous town of the Champagne region, where we take a couple of hours for a traditional French lunch (not included), shopping, or some tour opportunities.  Historically significant for French ruling lineages, the city’s suffering in WWI, and its role in ending WWII, the city of Reims offers more than shopping and food.  Here you will find the beautiful old bishops’ palace, now the Palace of Tau archeological museum; the Basilica and Abby Museum of St. Remi (first major convert to Christianity and baptiser of the first Christian king of France), the Surrender Museum commemorating the collapse of German military power in 1945; some Roman remains; and splendid collections in the Museum of Fine Arts.     Take a stroll to the famous Cathedral of Notre Dame in Reims.  This massive Gothic structure is famous for being the coronation place of French kings and stands as a superb example of 13^th century Gothic architecture. The choir clock is ornamented with curious mechanical figures and famous Russian artist Marc Chagall's 1974 stained glass work can be admired in the cathedral apse.

Our final stop in Reims will be at another interesting champagne house.    Although all champagne is similarly produced, each house emphasizes a different culture surrounding their wines.  The cellar tours reflect those differences and will round out your understanding of the champagne wines.  A tasting of champagne will be conducted (included) and you will have the opportunity to buy champagnes and gifts at cellar prices.  From here, we depart Reims at about 5:30 p.m.to return directly to points of origin at approximately 8:30 p.m.