Background
Olivier Bonville’s roots in winemaking run deep. A graduate of the prestigious Avize Viti Campus and trained in enology at Reims University, Olivier has dedicated his life to mastering his craft. He joined the family business in 1996, becoming the fourth-generation winemaker at Bonville. However, Olivier’s love for winemaking goes beyond the cellar; he has an intimate relationship with his vineyard.
Daily, Olivier can be found amidst the vines, carrying out regular sampling, and meticulously monitoring weather conditions. His profound understanding of the terroir—right down to the early plots and their varying sun exposures—drives the excellence in his wines. This commitment to sustainable viticulture has earned his vineyard a High Environmental Value certification, affirming his dedication to responsible farming practices.
Philosophy
Olivier Bonville is not just a winemaker; he is a steward of the land. His passion for viticulture is evident in his deep attachment to the terroirs of the Côte de Blancs. This sub-region is renowned for its unique stylistic variations in Champagne, a fact Olivier honors by focusing on terroir-driven cuvées.
Since 2012, Olivier has introduced a trio of terroir-focused cuvées that emphasize the distinct characteristics of the grapes from each grand cru village. With 15 hectares spread across Avize (8ha), Oger (5.5ha), and Mesnil-sur-Oger (1.5ha), Olivier’s goal is to offer Champagnes that reflect the purest expression of each terroir.
Winemaking Style
Olivier Bonville’s approach to winemaking is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. The Champagnes from Le Mesnil are known for their tight, lively character and tactile tension, often described as minerality. In Oger, where the chalk soils are deeper, the wines are fruit-driven and exuberant. Meanwhile, Avize’s shallower chalk soils produce wines with floral notes and crystalline textures.
“The Bonville style is based on freshness, racy acidity, and compelling vivacity,” Olivier says. His aim is to craft Champagnes that resonate with his personal taste—a style he describes as a “shimmering harmony” on the palate.
Conclusion
Olivier Bonville’s impact on the world of Champagne is profound. His technical expertise, intimate knowledge of the vineyard, and unwavering commitment to quality have solidified his reputation as a master winemaker. Through his terroir-focused approach, Olivier continues to elevate the Bonville brand, offering wine enthusiasts around the globe a taste of his “shimmering harmony.”
