Bonnaire Terroirs Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut, Champagne

Bonnaire Terroirs Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut is a beautifully refined, mineral laden and elegantly sculpted Champagne that reflects the essence of the Côte des Blancs. Bonnaire is based in Cramant, one of Champagne’s most revered Grand Cru villages, and this cuvée draws exclusively from Chardonnay grown on deep chalk soils in Cramant, Chouilly and Oiry. These vineyards, basking in cool morning light and anchored in pure chalk, produce Chardonnay of shimmering acidity, fine floral lift and an unmistakable chalk dust texture. The Bonnaire family has been crafting Champagne here since the nineteen thirties, working with long lees ageing, gentle pressing and a patient, low intervention approach that lets the terroir speak with clarity.

The aromatics are beautifully delicate yet full of nuance. Expect white peach, lemon zest, green apple and crisp pear, joined by acacia blossom, jasmine, almond meal and faint pastry notes from extended lees contact. Beneath the fruit lies the Côte des Blancs signature: crushed limestone, sea spray, cool wet chalk and a soft flinty echo. As the wine opens, hints of grapefruit, quince, hazelnut and subtle spice add quiet complexity.

On the palate the wine is taut, silky and wonderfully focussed. Bright citrus and orchard fruit glide across a fine, persistent bead, anchored by a clean mineral line and vibrant acidity. Flavours of lemon curd, peach skin, white nectarine and almond cream unfold gently, supported by delicate brioche notes from its lees ageing. The structure is elegantly chiselled, finishing long, dry and pure with lingering citrus, chalk and floral lift. With a few years in the cellar it gains honeyed, toasty and nutty richness while retaining its precise backbone.

This Blanc de Blancs is superb with oysters, scallops, sashimi, tempura, fresh chèvre, lobster with lemon butter, delicate chicken dishes, creamy mushroom pasta or as an elegant aperitif.