Moët & Chandon Cellars

The Basics

The Moët & Chandon Champagne cellars are a highlight for visitors to the Champagne region, with roughly 17 miles (27 kilometers) of tunnels and vaults filled with aging bottles. Take a guided tour to explore the cellars on foot, get a behind-the-scenes look at the brand’s historic Champagne- and wine-making processes, and sample a selection of Moët & Chandon’s famous vintage Champagne varietals. Some tours feature the season’s newest wines, while others highlight Moët Imperial or a rosé variety. Full-day Champagne tours from Paris or Reims typically include a visit to the Moët & Chandon cellars.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Moët & Chandon Champagne cellars are a must-see for wine and Champagne lovers.

• Cellar tours involve a fair amount of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.

• The cellars are usually chilly, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers.

• Cellar tours are typically wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The Moët & Chandon Champagne cellars are located in Epernay, roughly 90 minutes from Paris and 40 minutes from Reims by train. Travel times by road are about the same. The cellars lie within a five-minute walk from Epernay’s main train station.

When to Get There

The cellars are open daily from April through January, and on weekdays only in February and March. Visit during February or March to avoid crowds, but expect cold temperatures. The fall harvest season is a picturesque time to visit, when the vineyards are washed in golden colors. Summer is the busiest time of year; during this time, it’s best to opt for an early morning tour to avoid crowds.

The History of Moët & Chandon Champagne

The Moët (pronounced “mo-ett”) & Chandon company was founded in 1743, during the reign of King Louis XV. The brand’s Champagne was a favorite of the monarch and soon rose to fame throughout France, with famous aficionados such as Napoleon and Queen Victoria of Great Britain becoming quick fans. Now under the umbrella brand of LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton), the brand continues to hold its prestige.

Where are Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars (Les Caves Moët & Chandon) located?

The Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars are located in Epernay, which is in northern France’s Champagne region. It takes approximately 1.5 hours by train to reach Epernay from Paris Est Station (Gare de l'Est). Located on Avenue de Champagne, the cellars are a 5-minute walk from Epernay Station (Gare d'Épernay).

What can visitors expect during a tour of Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars?

Visitors can expect to explore bottle-lined tunnels and vaults during a tour of the Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars. You’ll also get a peek into the brand’s Champagne-making processes, and have the opportunity to sample a selection of Moët & Chandon Champagnes.

Are Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars are accessible for visitors with disabilities. The cellars have an elevator and a dedicated entrance for wheelchair users. Most, but not all, of Epernay’s Champagne houses are accessible for those with disabilities, so it is advisable to check before visiting.

What is the history of Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars?

Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars were founded in 1743 by Claude Moët. Its Champagnes soon became popular with King Louis XV and Napoleon Bonaparte, and later received a royal warrant to supply Champagne to Queen Elizabeth II. Increasingly associated with luxury, it is today part of the Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton group.

How do you book a tour of Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars?

You can book a tour of the Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars directly through the Champagne house’s website. It is also possible to join a tour on the day, but booking in advance is recommended. It’s advisable to book a tour that includes transportation if you are traveling from Paris or Reims and want to visit several Champagne houses.

How long does a tour of Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars last?

A tour of the Moët & Chandon Champagne Cellars typically lasts around 1.5 hours, which includes a guided walk around the network of tunnels and tastings of a couple of Champagnes. Extended tours or tasting experiences can take around two hours.

Ways to explore

The Moët & Chandon Cellars are an extremely popular stop on Champagne tours, which typically depart either from Reims in the Champagne region or Paris, which is about a 2-hour drive away. The most popular tour options are the cellar tours with tastings of the various Champagne styles: These are available for a range of different knowledge levels and at a choice of price points. You can also combine a cellar tour with a trip to Moët & Chandon’s expansive vineyards or witness disgorgement, the process whereby sediment is removed from vintage Champagne, and taste the vintages after it.

Accessibility

The cellars have an elevator and accessibility arrangements for travelers who use wheelchairs.

Age limits

Children are welcome on most Moët & Chandon Cellars tours but need to be at least 18 to taste Champagne.

What to pack

The cellar temperature varies from 50–54°F (10–12°C) so bring warm layers.

What to wear

Practical shoes are a good idea when touring Champagne as cellar tours involve some walking and may include uneven surfaces.

Not allowed

Champagne glasses have a stem to avoid warming the wine: Cradling your flute is a massive faux pas.

Amenities

Bar, restrooms, gift shop

Address 

The Moët & Chandon Cellars are on the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay. The town is about an 18-mile (29-kilometer) drive south of Reims or a 90-mile (145-kilometer) drive east of Paris.

Driving

From Reims, bear south and pick up the D951, following signs to Epernay. The road brings you into the center of town, from where you can negotiate the 1-way system to Avenue de Champagne.

Public transportation

The cellars are about a 5-minute walk from Epernay train station, which has regular trains to and from Reims as well as direct connections to Paris’ Gare de l’Est.

Best times to visit

The cellars are closed from January through mid-March, and on Tuesday and Wednesday during low season. The bar is open 10am–5pm and tours are generally bookable on a similar schedule.

Best days to visit

Visit midweek and first thing in the morning to beat the crowds during summer.

Best months to visit

September can be an atmospheric month to visit Champagne, as the harvest is usually in full swing but the worst of the crowds have gone.

Special events

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