Creating Sparkling Excellence: Bernard Lonclas, The Art of Champagne

Champagne Bernard Lonclas

Bassuet, France

Established in 1976 by Bernard Lonclas, Champagne Bernard Lonclas has become a revered name in the Champagne region of France. Nestled in the picturesque village of Bassuet, surrounded by slopes with fertile soil ideal for growing Chardonnay grapes, Maison Lonclas represents a harmonious blend of passion for the land and dedication to winemaking. Under the guidance of Bernard Lonclas and his daughter Aurélie, the winery has earned its reputation as a benchmark in the Champagne industry.

The Lonclas family cultivates the three esteemed Champagne grape varieties – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. During harvest-time, meticulous grape selection is paramount, ensuring only the finest grapes make their way into the winemaking process. This commitment to quality extends to the careful selection of different batches, allowing for the creation of exceptional Champagnes that embody the essence of the region.

At Maison Lonclas, traditional winemaking techniques blend seamlessly with modern technology, showcasing a marriage of time-honored craftsmanship and innovation. The use of avant-garde equipment in pressing and thermo-regulated stainless steel fermentation vats ensures precise control over the winemaking process. It is within this delicate balance of tradition and modernity that the Lonclas family artfully crafts their Champagnes.

Once a year, the wines undergo a skilful blending process, akin to an almost ritualistic experience. Aurélie, Bernard, and other members of the team contribute their unique tastes, sensations, and emotions to create the subtlety and originality that define the distinct Bernard Lonclas style. It is this personal touch and attention to detail that sets their Champagnes apart.

Following the blending process, the wines are gently transferred to the cellars, where they rest in cool darkness, patiently awaiting full maturity. These carefully nurtured wines embody the essence of time, reflecting the dedication and craftsmanship invested in their creation.

The vineyards of Champagne Bernard Lonclas span over 11 hectares of Premier Cru and Grand Cru classified areas, including prestigious vineyards such as Avize, Oiry, and Chouilly. Each vineyard is meticulously tended, allowing the carefully selected grape varieties to thrive in the unique terroir of the Champagne region. This harmonious combination of soil, climate, and grape variety results in exceptional wines that showcase the diversity and character of the region.

The Champagne range offered by Bernard Lonclas is a testament to the winery’s commitment to excellence. From elegant Blanc de Blancs crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes to classic blends that artfully marry the three traditional Champagne grape varieties, each Champagne showcases the distinct personality of the terroir and the expertise of the winemaker. With every bottle, Champagne Bernard Lonclas invites wine enthusiasts to embark on a sensory journey through the Champagne region.

Champagne Bernard Lonclas stands as a symbol of tradition, excellence, and unwavering dedication to crafting exceptional Champagnes. Guided by the visionary leadership of Bernard Lonclas and Aurélie, the Maison Lonclas represents the timeless artistry and passion that define the Champagne region. With each sip, one can experience the essence of this celebrated winery, where tradition and innovation intertwine to create Champagnes of unparalleled quality and character.