The Science of champagne: Northeastern France

8 June 2025 - 5 days

Register for 2025 now at tours@newscientist.com and we will contact you later this year with confirmed tour details.

Whet your appetite with an insightful champagne escape based in the heart of Reims in Northeastern France. Explore the famous champagne houses of Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and many more as you delve into both the history and production processes of champagne.

Champagne involves a fascinating blend of chemistry, physics, and biology that underpins the creation of this iconic sparkling wine. The unique characteristics of the Champagne region’s soil, climate, and geography contribute to the specific flavors and quality of champagne. Uncover the complex chemistry that gives champagne its signature bubbles, the sensory delight of savoring each sip, and the cultural heritage that makes this beverage truly iconic. 

Accompanied by an expert who has a wealth of knowledge and will take a deep dive into these processes, from the vineyards to the glass. 

You will be located within walking distance from the magnificent gothic cathedral where the kings of France were crowned. You will enjoy exclusive tastings and delicious cuisine, as well as time to explore the the region. 

In partnership with Kirker Holidays.

DAY 1 – ARRIVE IN REIMS IN THE CHAMPAGNE REGION

Arrive in Reims, located in the heart of champagne where you will check into the 4* Hotel de la Paix, which is perfectly located in the centre of the city and will be our base for the duration of this tour. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to relax or explore the town. 

In the evening, you will meet with your local guide and expert who will host a champagne tasting, comparing the styles and quality of a selection of wines, describing styles, evaluating the quality and judging which suit our taste. They will also discuss tasting technique, explain how the production methods used affect the style and no doubt spring a surprise or two. After the tasting we shall dine together.

DAY 2 - VILMART & BOLLINGER

This morning drive to the Montagne de Reims villages outside Reims to visit Vilmart, one of the leading small estate champagne makers. Next you will visit famed champagne house Bollinger for a tour of the cellars and lunch, paired with various champagnes served with the meal. Then return to Reims for a guided tour of the magnificent Reims Cathedral, setting for the coronation of many monarchs of France.

DAY 3 - GOSSET, CAMILLE SAVES & TAITTINGER

This morning, enjoy a visit to Gosset, the oldest wine house in the region, for our tour and tasting. Your next stop is the Grand Cru village of Bouzy, famous for its powerful Pinot Noir-based champagne and red wines. Here you will visit leading grower-producers, Camille Savès. Late in the afternoon, visit Taittinger’s Chateau de la Marquetterie near Epernay, where you will have a fabulous private dinner.

DAY 4 - PHILIPPONNAT

Today you will drive to the south side of the Montagne de Reims to Philipponnat, a smaller house that is a favourite of connoisseurs, for a tour of their famous ‘Clos des Goisses’ vineyard. 

Enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening.

DAY 5 – DEPART REIMS 

The morning is free for you to relax and explore at your own pace before departing.

If you would like to stay for additional days, our partner Kirker Holidays can arrange that for you.