Champagne Mercier

The basics

The Champagne house offers two types of guided tours: cellar tours that include three Champagne tastings and cellar-and-vineyard tours that wrap up with two tastings. Three different types of self-directed audio tours are also available, and include one to three tastings. It’s a good idea to book in advance as space is limited, though if you’re on a guided tour to the Champagne region, your tour operator may take care of bookings on your behalf.

Things to know before you go

• The cellars are kept cool, so it's wise to bring warm clothing, even in the summer.

• Tours are available in 11 languages (including sign language).

• Children under 10 visit free, and discounted admission is offered to those ages 10 to 17.

• The cellars at Champagne Mercier are wheelchair accessible.

• You can visit the on-site shop without taking a cellar tour.

How to get there

Champagne Mercier is in the town of Epernay, in France's Champagne region. If you're coming from Paris, you can take a train to Epernay's main railway station, about a 75-minute ride away. Mercier is about a 15-minute walk from the station. Private and small-group tours from Paris and Reims that include transportation are another option.

When to get there

Champagne Mercier is open to the public on mornings and afternoons (with a 2-hour break for lunch) every day of the week. The guided tours are held twice daily, but you should check ahead to find out which ones are in English and which ones are in French.

Moët & Chandon

Don't leave Epernay before visiting the cellars of Moët & Chandon, the most famous of the Champagne houses in town. This massive operation, which produces around 30 million bottles annually for distribution around the world, is a great place to learn about Champagne, and is featured on many tours to the Champagne region.