French Champagne Fantasy

RTT invites you to join us for an unforgettable excursion that takes you to the heart of the champagne region of France!  There are many sparkling wines produced all over the world, but only “bubbles” produced in this region of France are given the honored title of “Champagne”.

Since 1693 through to contemporary times, champagne has been paired with luxury and festivities the world over.  Today we will take you on a wine lovers journey that celebrates the magic, history, flavors and fantasy of Champagne! 

Our adventure begins in the quaint village of Hautvillers, nestled above the most exclusive vineyards in the entire Champagne region. Here, we visit a local Champagne vinter (winemaker) who will share his families long standing traditions and passion for the art and craft of making fine champagne.   Following this introduction we will enjoy the first bubbly delight of the day with a tasting of three different Champagnes.

We will begin with a Brut 1er Cru, a fine Champagne with lively bubbles and a revealing richness and freshness. Now it is time to descent into the underground Champagne cellar, here our host will provide an in-depth look at how champagne is developed, aged and bottled and we will learn how the cellar functions as an important part of producing high quality Champagne. Back above ground, we move on to the Grande Réserve, a Champagne of golden color with bright hints of peach and apricot. Rounding off our tasting is a radiant pink Champagne Rosé extra brut that offers a clean and elegant flavor. 

With the happy glow of champagne in your cheeks, the charming town of Hautvillers awaits your exploration. There is free time to visit the resting place of the famous Monk Dom Perignon, stop at other Champagne houses for additional tastings (not included) or shop for wines for your private collection. 

We leave the picturesque town and continue on to Epernay, famous for its “Avenue de Champagne” which features all the grand champagne houses and premium brands. This is an ideal opportunity to enjoy a typical French lunch in one of the Brasseries (not included) or stroll the glamorous Avenue de Champagne and perhaps taste and shop for more Champagne among the luxurious champagne brands offered here. 

The Grand finale of our day, takes us to to Reims where we visit the Cathedral Notre Dame the Reims, one of Europe’s most stunning examples of 13th century Gothic architecture and fondly referred to as the little sister of Paris, stroll along one of the typical shopping streets, or have an early French dinner before it is time to head home.