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Ruinart Cellars

4.7
·623 reviews·Reims, France

Explore the ancient chalk cellars of Ruinart, the oldest champagne house, and savor exquisite champagnes in Reims.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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La cour d'honneur

Ruinart Cellars

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the ancient chalk cellars of Ruinart, the oldest champagne house, and savor exquisite champagnes in Reims.

4.7
(623 reviews)

"The chalk cellars are truly worth a visit, and the tasting is amazing!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ruinart Cellar Tours Early

Tours and tastings at Ruinart cellars are popular and require advance booking. Secure your spot to avoid missing out!

🥂 Don't Miss the Rosé Tasting

Many visitors rave about the Ruinart rosé. It's highly recommended to try it during your tasting.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Chalk Cellars

The Ancient Chalk Cellars

Underground Cellars

Explore vast, historic chalk cellars dating back centuries, where champagne matures in perfect conditions.

TikTokReddit
Champagne Tasting Experience

Champagne Tasting Experience

Tasting Room / Le Bar by Ruinart

Savor exquisite Ruinart champagnes, including their renowned rosé, in a sophisticated tasting setting.

TikTokReddit
Nicolas Ruinart Pavillon

Nicolas Ruinart Pavillon

Visitor Center

Admire the chic, modern visitor center that beautifully complements the historic architecture.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Ruinart Cellar Tour in Advance

Ruinart cellars are a must-visit for champagne lovers, but tours and tastings require advance booking. Popular slots fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Plan ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. TikTok+1

Consider Your Reims Itinerary

While Ruinart is a highlight, Reims offers several renowned champagne houses. Visiting too many in one day can be overwhelming. Prioritize your interests and consider if a full tour or just a tasting at Ruinart suits your schedule. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Late spring/early summer
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings at Le Bar
Why
Chic ambiance, diverse selection
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

My type of matcha 😉 #ruinart #ruinartblancdeblanc #femaleceo @thebeautifulbusiness
@nerdyfilms
27.3K likes • 291.4K views

🎯 Book Ruinart Cellar Tours Early

Tours and tastings at Ruinart cellars are popular and require advance booking. Secure your spot to avoid missing out! TikTok+1

🥂 Don't Miss the Rosé Tasting

Many visitors rave about the Ruinart rosé. It's highly recommended to try it during your tasting. Reddit

elle fait mal à la tête, dans mon verre, remets du Ruinart 🍾 @R2⭕️
@ethan_forn
8.8K likes • 81.7K views
Comment “Champagne” to complete your journey. 🥂 Your final stop: Maison Ruinart, Champagne’s oldest maison, where history and innovation meet beneath the surface. Step into a world of quiet grandeur as you descend into UNESCO-listed chalk cellars, a luminous labyrinth carved through centuries. Here, the soul of Chardonnay is revealed through time, precision and an unmistakable elegance. This is...
luxaviationgroup
24 likes • 926 views

🚶‍♀️ Pace Yourself in Reims

Visiting multiple champagne houses in one day can be tiring. Consider focusing on 1-2 tours and tastings. TikTokReddit

🗣️ Learn Pronunciation

Impress your hosts by learning how to pronounce 'Ruinart' correctly. TikTok

🕯️a dinner in a UNESCO world heritage site ✨ I had the amazing opportunity to dine in the UNESCO world heritage site of the Crayères made of natural chalk cellars, in La Maison des Crayères by @ruinart 📍 4 rue des Crayères, Reims🕯️ L’abus d’alcool est dangereux pour la santé. À consommer avec modération. 🎥 by @french_exterior * Invitation #frenchdecor #artdevivre #crayeres #reims #patri...
french_exterior
50.6K likes • 871.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ruinart Cellar Tours Early

Tours and tastings at Ruinart cellars are popular and require advance booking. Secure your spot to avoid missing out! TikTok+1

🥂 Don't Miss the Rosé Tasting

Many visitors rave about the Ruinart rosé. It's highly recommended to try it during your tasting. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Pace Yourself in Reims

Visiting multiple champagne houses in one day can be tiring. Consider focusing on 1-2 tours and tastings. TikTokReddit

🗣️ Learn Pronunciation

Impress your hosts by learning how to pronounce 'Ruinart' correctly. TikTok

✨ Enjoy the Ambiance

The cellars offer a unique, calm atmosphere. Take your time to soak it all in. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(623 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ruinart Cellars for its stunning historic chalk cellars and the exceptional quality of its champagne, particularly the rosé. The knowledgeable guides and the chic, modern visitor center enhance the overall experience, making it a highly recommended destination for champagne lovers. Some find the tours can be a bit pricey, and booking well in advance is crucial.

"In addition to one of the best champagnes in the world, Ruinart’s chalk cellars are truly worth a visit. Find the maturing place of Dom Ruinart magnum bottles, that dwell on the perfect lighting, temperature and moisture. After cellars you get to taste the amazing products as well. Try to avoid developing a very expensive taste!😉"

Eerik Heijari

"Very beautiful Tour with a lot of impressions and informations. The tasting was very deliciouse. Highlight was the evening. A very calm and layed back atmosphere. Thank you David for the very good conversation and your asisstence. We appreciate them very much! :-)"

Simon Berger

"Ruinart was a lovely place for an afternoon tasting. They begin and end the tour in a large living room so you feel ad if you are drinking champagne at a friend’s house. The wine guide was knowledgeable and friendly. And the new modern visitor center is tastefully designed and blends well with the older architecture."

John Maull

What People Like

Historic chalk cellars
Exceptional champagne quality
Knowledgeable guides

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Advance booking essential

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach Ruinart Cellars from Paris is by taking a high-speed train (TGV) to Reims, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour. From the Reims train station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to the Ruinart estate. Many visitors combine a trip to Ruinart with other champagne houses in Reims for a full day of exploration. TikTok+1

Reims is quite walkable, especially the city center where many champagne houses are located. For houses slightly further out, like Ruinart, taxis or ride-sharing services are readily available. Some visitors opt for organized tours that include transportation between different cellars. TikTok

Yes, a day trip to Ruinart Cellars from Paris is definitely possible. You can take an early train to Reims, enjoy your tour and tasting, and catch a train back to Paris in the evening. It's a popular option for those with limited time. TikTok

For convenience, taxis or ride-sharing apps are recommended for traveling between champagne houses in Reims. Some houses are within walking distance of each other, but for longer distances, transport is advisable. TikTok

Yes, Ruinart Cellars typically offers parking facilities for visitors who are driving to the estate. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on parking availability and any associated fees. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Booking a tour and tasting at Ruinart Cellars is essential and should be done in advance through their official website or by contacting them directly. Popular time slots, especially for the renowned Ruinart cellar tour, can sell out quickly. TikTok+1

The cost of a Ruinart cellar tour and tasting can vary depending on the package and the specific champagne selected. It's best to check the official Ruinart website for the most current pricing information and available tour options. TikTok

Ruinart Cellars typically operates tours and tastings during specific hours, usually from Monday to Saturday. It's crucial to check their official website for the exact opening hours and days of operation, as these can change seasonally. TikTok

While it might be possible to visit the boutique or bar area without a pre-booked tour, a guided tour of the historic cellars and a tasting experience require advance reservations. Spontaneous visits for tours are generally not accommodated. TikTokReddit

Cancellation policies for Ruinart tours can vary. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions when booking or contact Ruinart directly to understand their policy regarding cancellations or rescheduling. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

A Ruinart cellar tour will take you through their ancient chalk cellars, explaining the history and the unique process of champagne making. You'll learn about the perfect conditions for aging champagne and see where bottles mature. The tour often concludes with a tasting. TikTokReddit

The Ruinart cellars are underground and involve walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. While not overly strenuous, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. The temperature in the cellars is cool and constant. TikTok

A typical Ruinart cellar tour and tasting experience lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows ample time for exploring the cellars, learning about the champagne-making process, and enjoying the tasting. TikTok

Ruinart has a strong connection with art and often features contemporary art installations within its cellars and visitor spaces, adding a unique cultural dimension to the visit. Reddit

Ruinart offers a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. The historic cellars provide a sense of grandeur, while the modern visitor center and tasting areas are chic and comfortable, creating a relaxed and enjoyable experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Ruinart features 'Le Bar by Ruinart,' a stylish bar where you can enjoy a selection of champagnes by the glass, often accompanied by gourmet bar bites. While not a full-service restaurant, it's a perfect spot for light refreshments. Reddit

At Le Bar by Ruinart, you can expect high-quality bar bites and small plates designed to complement their champagnes. Options can include artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and other refined snacks. Some vegan options are also available. Reddit

Yes, Ruinart has been noted to offer tasty vegan bar bites, such as cashews and hummus with warm bread, which pair well with their champagnes. Reddit

Absolutely! Ruinart Cellars has a boutique or 'La Boutique' where you can purchase bottles of their exquisite champagnes to take home as souvenirs or gifts. Reddit

Ruinart Cellars can be a stunning venue for private events and receptions. Their beautiful spaces, combined with exceptional champagne, make for a memorable occasion. Inquiries for private events should be directed to Ruinart's event coordination team. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside the Ruinart cellars, but it's always best to be respectful of the environment and other visitors. Flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the aging champagne. TikTok

The historic chalk cellars themselves offer dramatic and atmospheric backdrops. The modern Nicolas Ruinart Pavillon also provides sleek, contemporary settings for photos. Don't forget to capture your champagne tasting moments! Reddit

Drone photography is typically not permitted at private estates like Ruinart Cellars due to privacy and safety regulations. It's always best to assume drones are not allowed unless explicitly stated otherwise. TikTok

Yes, you can certainly take photos of the champagne bottles during your tasting. It's a great way to remember the specific cuvées you enjoyed. TikTok

A versatile camera, perhaps a mirrorless or DSLR with a good low-light lens, would be ideal for capturing the ambiance of the cellars. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities will also suffice for most visitors. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Ruinart Cellars is primarily an adult-focused destination for champagne enthusiasts, families can still find aspects to appreciate. The historical significance of the ancient chalk cellars might capture the imagination of older children, offering a unique glimpse into a different era. The modern visitor center provides a more comfortable space. However, it's important to note that the core experience revolves around alcohol tasting, and the environment may not be ideal for very young children. TikTok

If visiting with family, consider focusing on the historical and architectural aspects of the cellars. You might also inquire about any non-alcoholic beverage options available at 'Le Bar by Ruinart' for younger members. Planning your visit during less crowded times, like weekday afternoons, can also make the experience more manageable for families. Reddit

🥂 Champagne Connoisseurs

For true champagne aficionados, Ruinart Cellars offers an unparalleled journey into the heritage of one of the oldest and most respected houses. The deep dive into the history of the chalk cellars, understanding the unique aging process, and the opportunity to taste exceptional cuvées, including rare vintages and the highly acclaimed Rosé, will be deeply satisfying. TikTokReddit

Pay close attention to the details shared by your guide about the terroir, the winemaking techniques, and the specific characteristics of each champagne. Consider booking a tasting that includes premium selections or exploring the extensive list at 'Le Bar by Ruinart' for a more in-depth exploration of their portfolio. The chance to purchase rare bottles from the boutique is also a significant draw. Reddit

✈️ Day-Trippers from Paris

Ruinart Cellars is an excellent choice for a sophisticated day trip from Paris, offering a taste of the Champagne region's prestige. The journey by train to Reims is swift, making it feasible to experience a tour and tasting within a single day. Prioritize booking your tour in advance to maximize your time on the ground. TikTok

Combine your visit to Ruinart with a brief exploration of Reims Cathedral or another nearby champagne house if time permits, but be mindful of not rushing the experience. Focus on enjoying the unique atmosphere of the cellars and savoring the exquisite champagne. Remember to factor in travel time to and from the train station in Reims. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Architecture of Ruinart Cellars

The Ruinart Cellars are not just underground storage; they are a testament to centuries of champagne-making history. Carved into the chalky subsoil of Reims, these vast galleries, known as 'crayères,' were originally Roman quarries. Ruinart, being the oldest champagne house, established its cellars here in the 18th century, leveraging the naturally stable temperature and humidity ideal for aging champagne. The sheer scale and ancient atmosphere of these cellars are a significant part of the visitor experience, offering a glimpse into the meticulous process that has been refined over generations. TikTokReddit

The architecture of Ruinart is a fascinating blend of the ancient and the modern. While the underground cellars are the historical heart, the estate has evolved. The Nicolas Ruinart Pavillon, a contemporary visitor center, showcases a sleek, modern design that harmoniously integrates with the historic surroundings. This new addition provides a sophisticated space for tastings and events, demonstrating Ruinart's commitment to both its heritage and its future. The contrast between the cool, dim chalk cellars and the bright, airy pavilion is striking and adds another layer to the estate's allure. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the impressive historical context and the thoughtful integration of modern design. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights not only about champagne production but also about the history of the estate and its connection to art. This blend of history, architecture, and art makes a visit to Ruinart Cellars a rich and multi-faceted experience, far beyond a simple wine tasting. Reddit

Experiencing a Ruinart Champagne Tasting

A champagne tasting at Ruinart is a highlight for many visitors, offering a chance to savor some of the world's most esteemed champagnes. The experience typically begins after exploring the historic cellars, where you'll be guided through a selection of Ruinart's finest cuvées. The tasting is often conducted in a comfortable and elegant setting, such as the new visitor center or 'Le Bar by Ruinart.' TikTokReddit

Guests frequently praise the quality of the champagne and the knowledgeable staff who enhance the tasting by providing details about each wine's characteristics, production, and pairing suggestions. The Ruinart Rosé is particularly lauded, with many visitors recommending it as a must-try. Beyond the rosé, you might have the opportunity to taste their Blanc de Blancs or vintage offerings, experiencing the distinct house style. TikTokReddit

For those looking for a more extended experience, 'Le Bar by Ruinart' offers a wider selection of champagnes by the glass, allowing for a more personalized tasting journey. This modern bar also serves gourmet bar bites, perfect for complementing the champagnes. The overall ambiance is described as friendly, fun, and inviting, making the tasting a truly memorable part of the visit. Reddit

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