Take a tour of the exceptional Ruinart Champagne house and explore its eerie tunnels full of seemingly countless bottles and barrels. The tour also includes an expert-led tasting session. Hone your palate and learn how to differentiate between the individual Ruinart products.
The Champagne house was first established in 1729 by Nicolas Ruinart, who named it after his uncle Dom Ruinart, a modest and hardworking monk who shared his passion for sparkling wine. Ruinart is now one of the biggest names in Champagne and is known for its underground chalk tunnels, where its wine slowly matures. Plunge to a depth of up to 125 feet (38 meters) below ground to see the inner workings of this French wine giant.
During the 2-hour guided tour, listen to fascinating stories about the inception of the world’s oldest champagne house. Marvel at the staggering number of bottles held in the cave. The Ruinart ambassador guiding your tour will also explain the Champagne production process as you wander around the subterranean tunnels.
Sample the company’s signature pours, such as Ruinart Blanc de Blanc and Ruinart Rosé. For something a little different, sip the Dom Ruinart or Dom Ruinart Rosé cuvées. Visitors under the age of 18 will be offered a non-alcoholic beverage instead.
Reserve an area in the historic house for a celebratory lunch or a special dinner event. Groups of between 15 and 80 people can be accommodated.
Tours take place between Tuesday and Saturday year-round, except for when the house closes from about mid-December until late January or early February. Tours are by appointment only, so reserve online in advance. Because Ruinart is an ultra-exclusive and luxury producer, the fee is higher than that of rival houses.
Ruinart is a 10-minute drive southeast from the center of Reims. Find several other Champagne houses, such as the Champagne Taittinger and Champagne G.H. Martel & Co., nearby. Other highlights in the area are the St. Remi Basilica, the Parc de Champagne and St. Nicaise Hill.
