About this tour
Master the daring technique of slicing champagne bottle tops with a sabre in the Reims mountains, channelling the cavalry tactics of Napoleon's elite guard. This 75-minute session teaches you the blade work behind sabrage with a respectable success rate, complete with safety glasses and three quality champagnes to celebrate your swings. A hands-on way to unlock a French tradition that turns bottle-opening into theatre.
Highlights
- Slice champagne bottle necks clean with a sabre
- Three different Champagne tastings included
- Learn Hussar cavalry techniques from the 1800s
- 90 percent success rate for first-timers
- Safety gear and instruction provided on-site
- Set in the Reims wine region
What to expect
You'll start with a safety briefing and protective eyewear, then get hands-on tuition in the sabre technique—the precise angle, speed, and follow-through needed to pop a bottle top clean off. The instructor will demonstrate repeatedly before you take your turn. Most people succeed on their first or second attempt. Between attempts, you'll taste three distinct Champagnes, learning what separates them. Expect a mix of concentration, a bit of nerves, and genuine satisfaction when the glass flies.
Good to know
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. The venue is fully accessible for wheelchairs, with level surfaces throughout. Prams and strollers welcome. Service animals permitted. No food included—bring snacks if you need them, or plan lunch nearby.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.