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On my recent journey through the Champagne region of France, I had the extraordinary opportunity to visit Veuve Clicquot in Reims—a true highlight of my trip. As one of the most prestigious Champagne houses in the world, Veuve Clicquot offers guided tours and tastings. Here is everything you need to know about my visit!

Veuve Clicquot In Reims

First, we arrived in Reims by train from Paris then walked to Veuve Clicquot. We stopped at En Aparthé: The Best Brunch In Reims, France! If you have the time I recommend stopping here.

There were so many tours to choose from that I couldn’t quite decide. I knew I wanted to explore the cellars and sample some of their Champagne, which is crafted right on-site.

As we approached, I was in awe. The Champagne house was massive and had stunning architecture!

I opted for the “Only One Quality, the Finest” tour, which took us through Veuve Clicquot’s historic, UNESCO World Heritage-listed cellars. The tour also included a tasting of their Champagne.

Only One Quality, the Finest Tour

Our tour started by checking in at reception and meeting the rest of the group downstairs.

Once the group was ready, our guide led us outside and across the lawn to the cellar. We then descended a large staircase that took us underground.

I got to see an incredible part of their Champagne-making process once we reached the cellars. Which stretch for 15 miles under the city, and are carved into ancient chalk caves that were originally dug by the Romans.

I saw thousands of bottles lined up on wooden racks—this is how they make the Champagne perfect. We also checked out the “Cave de la Grande Dame,” named after Madame Clicquot. It was really interesting to learn how they craft and age the Champagne.

The Champagne Tasting At Veuve Clicquot

Now on to the best part, the Champagne Tasting, which was down at the last room of the cellar. The tasting consited of four wines, all 6cl per glass.

Brut Carte Jaune

First, we tried  Brut Carte Jaune. Brut Carte Jaune is one of Veuve Clicquot’s flagship Champagnes. It’s a classic blend known for its consistency and quality, reflecting the house’s long-standing tradition of excellence.

This Champagne is primarily made from Pinot Noir, with a smaller proportion of Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, which gives it a well-balanced flavor profile. It has a vibrant golden color and offers a lively, fresh taste with notes of apple, pear, and a hint of brioche. The texture is smooth, with fine bubbles that contribute to its elegance.

Extra Brut Extra Old

Next was the Extra Brut Extra Old. This prestigious Champagne has a its minimal dosage of sugar, which results in a drier taste compared to other styles.

The “Extra Old” indicates that the Champagne is made from reserve wines that are aged for an extended period.

With its golden hue and fine, persistent bubbles, Extra Brut Extra Old offers flavors of dried fruit, toasted nuts, and a touch of honey. The texture is smooth, and the finish is long and elegant, showcasing the depth and character that come from extended aging.

Vintage 2015

Then we sipped the Vintage 2015, This vintage Champagne is made exclusively from the grapes harvested in the 2015 growing season, a year noted for its excellent weather conditions, which contributed to the high quality of the fruit.

The Vintage 2015 is a blend of predominantly Pinot Noir, with a smaller proportion of Chardonnay. This combination results in a Champagne with a rich, full-bodied flavor profile. It has a golden color with a fine, persistent mousse and offers a complex bouquet of ripe fruits, such as pear and apple, along with hints of brioche and honey from the aging process.

Vintage Rosé 2015

Our tasting came to an end with the Vintage Rosé 2015. The Vintage Rosé 2015 features a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and a touch of Pinot Meunier. It has a beautiful, delicate pink color and offers an expressive bouquet with notes of red berries, such as raspberry and strawberry, along with subtle hints of citrus and floral undertones.

On the palate, the Vintage Rosé 2015 is elegant and well-structured, with a creamy texture and fine, persistent bubbles. The flavors are rich and balanced, with a nice interplay of fruitiness and a hint of spice.

World War I and World War II Markings

After our tasting, we walked back towards the staircase where we saw the markings on the wall from World War I and World War II.

During the First World War, the cellars were repurposed as shelters to protect people from bombings. The cellars provided a safe haven for local residents and soldiers due to their deep underground location and sturdy structure.

Similarly, during World War II, the cellars continued to serve as protective spaces. The wartime use of the cellars is a notable aspect of their history, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of Veuve Clicquot during times of crisis.

The Guardian Angel

We also saw the angel on the wall. The angel design represents a guardian figure, reflecting the protective role the cellars played during times of war. It embodies the spirit of protection and continuity, linking the past with the present.

The Staircase At Veuve Clicquot Cellars

Our last stop was the massive staircase. The staircase in the Veuve Clicquot cellars with the dates engraved on it.

The dates marked on the staircase correspond to key events and milestones, including the years of major expansions, important historical events, and other notable achievements.

It adds a cool historical touch to the tour and shows how the Champagne house has evolved over the years.

Last Stop, The Veuve Clicquot Store!

Our tour ended at the Veuve Clicquot store, and even though I don’t usually splurge on Champagne, I couldn’t resist picking up a bottle to fly home.

While I won’t be opening it on a regular Tuesday, I’m saving it for a really special occasion or big accomplishment—just as Veuve Clicquot is meant to be enjoyed!

Exploring the cellars gave me a whole new appreciation for Veuve Clicquot and how they’ve been making Champagne for so long. It was a fantastic experience and a great look into the world of one of the most famous Champagne houses.

You can book the same tour I did here!

Can I Fly Champagne From France To The United States?

Yes, you can! I was worried it might get taken away or explode during the flight, but neither happened. As long as you pack it in your checked luggage, you can definitely bring it with you. You’re allowed to take up to two bottles per piece of luggage, so just make sure you don’t exceed that limit. You can also ship the wine home, but I didn’t have enough to justify that option.

I always travel with the Reusable Wine Protector Travel Bag. This keeps my wine safe when my bag gets through around.

Where Is Veuve Clicquot?

You can visit Veuve Clicquot by taking the train to Reims from Paris, or by driving there if you have a car.

I loved visiting France! Paris is one of my favorite cities to visit.

Paris is one of my favorite cities in the world!

I recommend eating at one of The Most Delicious Bakeries In Paris (2024).

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Sip wine at one of Paris’ flower cafes. Villa Marquise Is The Most Beautiful Flower Cafe In Paris!

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