Bonnet Champagne
Champagne Alexandre Bonnet is a well-regarded Champagne house located in Les Riceys in the Côte des Bar region. They are particularly known for their expressive Champagnes dominated by Pinot Noir, reflecting the unique terroir of this southern part of the Champagne appellation.
Founded in 1970, Champagne Alexandre Bonnet is deeply rooted in the village of Les Riceys, the largest commune in the Champagne region, situated in the Aube department (Côte des Bar). This area is distinct for its Kimmeridgian marl soils, similar to Chablis, which are ideal for cultivating high-quality Pinot Noir. The house manages extensive vineyards, with Pinot Noir being the predominant grape variety, significantly influencing the house style. They are committed to showcasing the specific character of the Les Riceys terroir and practice sustainable viticulture, holding the HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) certification. Their modern winery facilitates precise vinification, often on a parcel-by-parcel basis, allowing them to craft a diverse range of Champagnes, including Blanc de Noirs, Rosés (including the rare still wine Rosé des Riceys AOC from the same area), blended cuvées, and vintage offerings, all known for their structure, fruit expression, and minerality.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Pale gold to deeper gold, sometimes with copper hints, especially in Blanc de Noirs or older vintages. Fine, persistent bubbles. Rosés have shades from pale salmon to deeper pink.
Nose: Aromas often feature red fruits (raspberry, cherry, redcurrant), floral notes (peony, violet), citrus zest, and depending on the cuvée and age, notes of brioche, toasted almond, pastry, and minerality (flint, chalk).
Recognition
Decanter World Wine Awards
International Wine Challenge (IWC)
Concours Général Agricole Paris
Wine Enthusiast
Food Pairings
Aperitif: Excellent on its own or with light canapés.
Seafood: Oysters, grilled prawns, scallops, sushi.
Poultry: Roast chicken, turkey.
White Meats: Veal, pork loin.
Cheese: Creamy cheeses like Brie, Camembert, Chaource (local to the region). Harder cheeses like Comté.
Rosé Cuvées: Pair well with salmon, charcuterie, duck, or red fruit desserts.
Serving Suggestions
Temperature: Serve well chilled, ideally between 8−10°C (46−50°F). Serving too cold can mute aromas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Interesting Facts
Les Riceys Terroir: Located in the southernmost part of Champagne, Les Riceys is unique for being the only commune entitled to three AOCs: Champagne, Coteaux Champenois (still red and white wines), and the highly sought-after Rosé des Riceys (a rare still rosé made exclusively from Pinot Noir).
Pinot Noir Dominance: The house's style is heavily influenced by the region's suitability for Pinot Noir, making their Blanc de Noirs (100% Pinot Noir) particularly representative.
Sustainability: Holds the HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale - High Environmental Value) certification, level 3, the highest level, demonstrating commitment to biodiversity, water management, and reduced environmental impact.