# Bonvalet Épopée (NV)

- **Producer:** Champagne Bonvalet
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €35
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** pear, elderflower, bread, pastry, biscuit, brioche

## About this wine

Bonvalet Épopée is a Non-Vintage white sparkling wine from Champagne, France, produced by Champagne Bonvalet. The blend comprises 45% Pinot Meunier, 30% Chardonnay, and 25% Pinot Noir. The name 'Épopée' signifies the adventurous and ambitious spirit of the house, founded by Guillaume Bonvalet with a vision to create his own Champagne estate. The Bonvalet house is committed to an innovative and environmentally conscious philosophy, with its vineyards managed under VDC (Viticulture Durable de Champagne) and HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) standards.

## Interesting facts

- Épopée means 'journey' or 'epic' in French, reflecting the founder's ambitious vision.
- The house was founded in 2012 with a 'wild dream' of creating a Champagne estate.
- Vineyards are cultivated according to VDC and HVE environmental norms.
- Awarded a Gold Medal from Gilbert et Gaillard.

## Food pairing

The wine's lively acidity cuts through richer elements like butter sauces and fatty proteins, while its subtle minerality complements the delicate flavors of seafood and vegetables. The freshness of the wine makes it an excellent aperitif and a versatile partner for lighter dishes.

## Wine making process

Bonvalet Épopée undergoes malolactic fermentation, a process that softens the wine's acidity. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees for an extended period, either for 2 years or a minimum of 4 years, with some indications of 48 months of cellaring. This aging process contributes to the wine's texture and complexity. The producer, Champagne Bonvalet, cultivates its vineyards according to VDC (Viticulture Durable de Champagne) and HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) norms, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship.