2021 Champagne Domaine Alexandre Bonnet La Forêt

EXCLUSIVE - AVAILABLE JUNE 2026

Domaine Alexandre Bonnet Winery

Domaine Alexandre Bonnet is located in Les Riceys, in the southern part of Champagne, close to Burgundy. This area is known for its pronounced focus on Pinot Noir and its unique, chalky terroirs. The estate works with great precision in both the vineyard and the cellar and places a strong emphasis on agro-ecological farming and biodiversity. Here, champagnes are produced that clearly display the character of their origin. More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Origin, terroir and location

La Forêt is a specific vineyard within the estate and is among the sunniest plots. The slope is south-facing and can reach up to 45%, ensuring maximum ripening and concentration in the grapes.

The soil consists of Kimmeridgian limestone and marl, slightly iron-rich, comparable to parts of Chablis. Combined with the relatively cool but sunny climate of Southern Champagne, this produces wines with both power and tension.

The vineyards are situated at an altitude of approximately 250 meters and are cultivated according to agro-ecological principles, with a focus on soil life, biodiversity, and minimal intervention.

Grapes and vineyard management

This cuvée is made from 100% Pinot Noir sourced from mass selection, with vines dating back to 1973. The combination of old vines and low yields ensures concentration and depth.

Work is carried out without herbicides or insecticides and with organic compost. Through a meticulous approach in the vineyard and strict selection during the harvest, only the best fruit is used.

Vinification and aging

Vinification takes place without the addition of sulfites, which is rare in Champagne. The grapes are slowly pneumatically pressed, followed by natural fermentation. Both alcoholic and malolactic fermentation take place, followed by aging for 8 months, partly in used oak barrels.

Subsequently, the wine ages on the lees for no less than 39 months, resulting in extra complexity and texture. The champagne is disgorged without dosage, ensuring that the purity and character of the terroir are fully preserved.

Total production is very limited, with only 2,523 bottles, supplemented by a small number of magnums and jeroboams.

Color, smell and taste

The wine has a bright golden-yellow color with light green reflections. On the nose, it is intense and layered, with notes of candied citrus, pear, and mirabelle, followed by red berries such as raspberry and redcurrant.

After aeration, more complex aromas of almond, marzipan, and roasted hazelnuts emerge, complemented by subtle spicy notes and a fresh hint of mint.

On the palate, the initial taste is powerful and energetic. The structure is full and creamy, yet held tight by a lively acidity and a distinct salinity. The finish is long, precise, and lingers beautifully.

Style and character

La Forêt 2021 is a distinct Blanc de Noirs with a powerful signature. The combination of ripe fruit, tension, and the absence of dosage results in a direct and pure style.

The wine clearly shows what a single plot in Les Riceys can produce. It is not a classic, soft champagne, but rather a gastronomic wine with structure and depth.

Food and wine pairings

This champagne is highly suitable for gastronomic pairings. Think of poultry with mushrooms, veal, or rich fish dishes such as salmon. The wine also comes into its own with aged cheeses such as Chaource.

Serve at around 8 to 10 degrees and let the wine sit in the glass for a few minutes to fully open up.

Wine & Food Pairing and Discount

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. In the Food tab, you will find advice on what to look for for the right food and wine pairing, and a number of dish suggestions from our Sommelier.