Bonnaire – Family Traditions and Champagne Passion in Côte des Blanc
Welcome to the World of Bonnaire
Under the warm sun of Côte des Blancs, hidden among the velvety green vines in the small village of Cramant, we find Bonnaire Winery. Since 1932, this family-owned gem has carried on a passion for craftsmanship and high-quality Blanc de Blancs champagne across four generations. What began as a bold vision by Fernand Bouquemont has today become a name synonymous with both tradition and innovation.
Join us on a captivating journey through the family's story in the world of champagne – from the first barrel to today’s exclusive Grand Cru wines that conquer both hearts and palates around the globe.
Where It All Began: Fernand Bouquemont's Pioneering Steps
🌟 The year is 1932. Fernand Bouquemont makes a decisive decision – to stop selling his grapes and instead begin crafting his own wine. A bold step for the time, but one that would soon lay the foundation for the emergence of Bonnaire Winery.
As a true pioneer in the now highly regarded "grower-champagne" movement, Fernand took pride in handcrafted champagnes that reflect the very best of his home region, Côte des Blancs. Over the years, the entire family became woven into this legacy.
Son-in-law André Bonnaire took the baton and advanced the business with innovative techniques.
Jean-Louis Bonnaire paved the way beyond France’s borders and made the family’s Blanc de Blancs internationally renowned.
Today, Jean-Etienne and Jean-Emmanuel Bonnaire are at the helm, carefully carrying the house's legacy into the future – with a strong focus on both tradition and sustainable development.
What makes Bonnaire unique?
Bonaire stands out among champagne producers, not only for its quality wines but also for its focus on terroir and sustainability.
🌿 22 hectares of Grand Cru vineyards in the enchanting village of Cramant give the champagnes a unique balance of creaminess, elegance, and freshness.
🍾 Côte des Blancs is known for its chalky terroir, which gives the champagnes their mineral character and refreshing crispness.
🍇 Chardonnay is the star of the production, fermented in stainless steel and with malolactic fermentation to create wines with precision and depth.
💪 Aging for at least 3 to 5 years on the lees adds complexity and elegance.
Rising stars in Bonnaire's portfolio
🍷 Les Terres des Buissons Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru
100% Chardonnay with notes of citrus, green apple, and subtle minerality. Perfect for seafood or as an aperitif.
🍷 Love Story Grand Cru Extra Brut
A stunning blend of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir, with notes of white peach and brioche.
The future looks sustainable
🌿 Jean-Etienne and Jean-Emmanuel Bonnaire are leading Bonnaire into a greener future with a focus on sustainable wine production.
💚 Reduced use of chemicals and protection of ecosystems – a legacy for future champagne lovers.
🍾 Continued expansion as a strong challenger to the big houses, without compromising its traditions and values.
Tips for the Curious
💳 Available from Swedish importers such as Gassås wine.
🔥 Served at 6–8 °C to enhance the flavor profile.
🚀 Perfect with seafood and cheese platters for a magical wine experience.
Bonnaire – a Legacy in Every Bottle
Bonnaire is more than just champagne; it is a story, a tribute to generations of passion, and a genuine connection to nature and craftsmanship.
The next time you lift a glass of Blanc de Blancs, toast to Bonnaire – the family that has transformed the beauty of Côte des Blancs into something we can all enjoy.
Cheers and toast! 🥂
Are you interested in learning more about Champagne? Check out some of my different tastings below.