White dry
“Chardonnay” from 45–75-year-old vines, grown in several organically farmed parcels within the Viré-Clessé appellation. “Cuvée Spéciale” stands out for the combination of fruit from different parcels, giving the wine greater concentration and structure than is typically expected from the appellation, while the limestone soils preserve freshness and minerality. It is a characterful Chardonnay offering Burgundy enthusiasts considerably more complexity at a price point well below that typically associated with Côte de Beaune.
The nose reveals ripe yellow-fruit, pear and apple notes, complemented by hazelnut, white flowers and subtle mineral nuances. As the wine opens, the fruit becomes richer, while the nutty notes add further depth.
On the palate, the wine is juicy and medium-bodied, with a supple texture and clear mineral tension. The ripe fruit character is complemented by hazelnut notes, while the limestone soils provide freshness and structure. The finish is long, dry and fresh, with lingering fruit and mineral notes.
The grapes are hand-harvested, while vinification takes place naturally using stainless-steel tanks and oak barrels. The wine is aged for around 18 months, with a portion kept in oak.
Serve at 10-12 °C with poultry in cream sauce, halibut steak, seafood dishes or Italian dumplings with pumpkin, sweet potato filling and cheddar cheese sauce.
The A. Bonhomme winery was founded in 1956 by Andre Bonhomme. The estate boasts many old vines—some approaching 100 years of age, with certain plots planted as early as 1923. André Bonhomme's estate is considered one of the leading producers in the Vire-Clessé appellation, having significantly contributed to the establishment and tightening of its appellation rules. High-quality oak barrels, optimal grape ripeness, and strict quality requirements enable the production of wines that are appealing and elegant in their youth, yet also age beautifully. This advantage is characteristic of only a few of the best Vire-Clessé producers. Wines of similar quality, elegance, and concentration from estates further north in Burgundy's Côte d'Or region typically cost significantly more. Here, vineyards have long been cultivated using ecological viticulture methods, aiming to develop the vines' natural immunity to diseases rather than just treating them.
André Bonhomme wines are pure, mineral-driven, and elegant, reflecting the authentic expression of the Mâcon region's 'Chardonnay'.
André Bonhomme's vineyards are located within the Vire-Clessé appellation, characterized by clay and limestone soils. The old vines are a key guarantor of quality, imparting concentration and complexity to the wines.
André Bonhomme wines are notable for their aging potential. While they are appealing and elegant in their youth, their true depth and complexity unfold after several years of bottle aging, allowing new aromas and flavors to develop and evolve.