Meet the Maker: Bernard Lonclas, Visionary of Blanc de Blancs Champagne
Introducing Bernard Lonclas: A Pioneer of Chardonnay-Driven Champagne in Bassuet
At Vinomofo, we’ve had the privilege of working with Bernard Lonclas, one of the most passionate and pioneering Champagne winemakers in the Côte des Blancs, for a few years now. His commitment to crafting exceptional Blanc de Blancs Champagne - sparkling wine made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes - has elevated the lesser-known village of Bassuet to international acclaim.
The Birth of Champagne Lonclas in Bassuet
In the 1960s, Bernard Lonclas relocated to the village of Bassuet, nestled on the southeastern edge of the Champagne wine region. At the time, the village’s Chardonnay vineyards primarily supplied fruit to the large Champagne houses. But Bernard saw untapped potential in the terroir of Coteaux Vitryats, and he had the vision - and courage - to bottle under his own label.
Image credit: champagne_lonclas
“From a very young age, I was already driven by an entrepreneurial spirit. When my schoolteacher asked me what I wanted to do later on, the answer was unequivocal: winemaker. More than a profession, this passion for the world of wine has never left me.” - Bernard Lonclas
Chardonnay Is King: Building a Champagne House from the Ground Up
Bernard planted his first parcel, La Touaille—a 55-acre block of Chardonnay—in the sunlit, southeast-facing hills of Bassuet. His first cuvée, a Blanc de Blancs Brut, was released in 1976 and marked the birth of the Champagne Lonclas label.
Image credit: champagne_lonclas
“As the son of a farmer with a solid education in viticulture and oenology, I made my first wine acquisition: “La Touaille”, a 55-acre parcel of Chardonnay that I planted myself on the south-eastern hillsides of Bassuet, laying the foundations for the House. My first cuvée, Blanc de Blancs Brut, was born in 1976.” - Bernard Lonclas
Image credit: champagne_lonclas
With both traditional and modern winemaking techniques, Lonclas has built a reputation for excellence. His Champagne winery, cellars, and tasting room are all located in the heart of the village, offering a warm welcome to visitors.
The Terroir of Bassuet: 100% Chardonnay, 100% Expression
While the broader Côte des Blancs region is about 96% Chardonnay, Bernard's estate is planted entirely to Chardonnay vines, most of which he planted himself. His daughter, Mathilde Lonclas, now works alongside him, helping to share his story with the world.
“I was able to observe the planting of the first vineyards in the village and throughout the Coteaux Vitryats in the 1960s. I then planted most of my own vineyards and built each of the buildings that make up our House today. It was a great opportunity to participate in the birth of this beautiful terroir.” - Bernard Lonclas
Tasting Champagne Lonclas: Sophistication in Every Glass
Bernard’s wines exemplify all that make Blanc de Blancs so enticing. In his own words they’re “sophisticated, delicate and fresh”, and that’s on full show in every glass. There’s a citrusy backbone, body and tension, floral notes and secondary hints such as honeycomb, green tea, cassis and spice.
“I particularly enjoy sipping a glass of Vintage Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs 2015 to a jazz tune with friends to share an aperitif with champagne lovers, and then continuing the meal with a Vintage Brut. I am particularly fond of our Cuvée Prestige Extra Dry for long, festive summer evenings with friends!” - Bernard Lonclas
They’re clean and powerful wines, but always in balance with a lingering finish. The critics have taken notice as well with James Suckling recently scoring three of the wines with a 97 and two 95 point ratings. And it’s the Brut that Bernard is most proud of, due to the finesse and the incomparable aromatic elegance of the terroir that he's managed to charm into bottle.
Image credit: champagne_lonclas
Why Champagne Bernard Lonclas Deserves a Spot in Your Cellar
“I only make my vintages in the best years, from my oldest vines. After careful deliberation, I select the most representative cuvées of the year. I do not plan to create a new cuvée - I prefer to strive for perfection in current cuvées.” - Bernard Lonclas
Few winemakers embody the pioneering spirit of Champagne like Bernard Lonclas. From his dedication to sustainably grown Chardonnay to his meticulous winemaking methods, his Champagnes reflect both place and passion. Stock is limited, and these small-batch Blanc de Blancs don’t last long - now’s your chance to taste Champagne from a true master.
Image credit: champagne_lonclas
