Bezannes

Bezannes: an overview of the commune and its viticulture

Bezannes (postcode 51430) is a charming commune in the Champagne-Ardenne region, right in the heart of the Montagne de Reims. It lies south-west of Reims and, according to the latest INSEE figures, has around 1,940 inhabitants (2023). Bezannes belongs to the Marne département and sits in a region renowned for its excellent champagne.

Geography and demographics

Bezannes is conveniently placed close to Reims, one of the best-known cities of Champagne. This proximity brings the commune both advantages and challenges. Its setting in the Montagne de Reims gives Bezannes a certain appeal and makes it very easy to reach. Despite being so close to Reims, Bezannes remains a quiet, tranquil commune with a rural charm.

Viticulture in Bezannes

Bezannes was granted Premier Cru status in 1985, which is considerable recognition for the commune. In the Champagne classification, "Premier Cru" means that the vineyards of a village are of high quality, although Bezannes has particularities that help explain this classification. The status was awarded to its vineyards because they lie in a first-rate growing area that meets the highest standards for champagne production.

Today the vineyard area in Bezannes covers around 7 hectares (2023). The vineyards are planted exclusively to Chardonnay, a grape variety known for its elegant, fresh character. Chardonnay is one of the three main grape varieties of Champagne and contributes significantly to the quality and diversity of the wines.

What sets the vineyards apart

Although Bezannes has a comparatively small vineyard area, the commune plays an important role in the wider context of Champagne. The decision to grant Bezannes Premier Cru status rests on several factors, including its particular position and the microclimate, which is ideal for the vines. Even if the vineyards in Bezannes are rather small compared with other parts of Champagne, they are of high quality and add to the variety of champagne on offer.

Champagne - Ardenne, France - August 2017 : Champagne house Moët

Bezannes growers and champagne houses

Several small but well-regarded champagne producers are based in Bezannes. They benefit from the excellent location and high-quality grapes to make fine champagnes. Notable producers in the area include:

“It lies south-west of Reims and, according to the latest INSEE figures, has around 1,940 inhabitants (2023).

1. Champagne Vollereaux - A family-run house known for its high-quality champagnes. The Vollereaux family tends its vineyards in Bezannes with great care and makes champagne that shows off the finesse and elegance of Chardonnay.


2. Champagne Guy de Forez - This house produces champagne distinguished by its complexity and depth. Guy de Forez relies on traditional methods of champagne making and uses the excellent conditions in Bezannes to create exceptional wines.


3. Champagne Pierre Gimonnet & Fils - Although the house is headquartered in Cuis, it also owns vineyards in Bezannes. Its range includes a number of champagnes prized for their purity and refinement.

Recent developments and outlook

In recent years the area around Bezannes has developed and modernised. There are efforts to expand the vineyard area and optimise wine production. Sustainable growing methods are also becoming ever more important, in order to reduce the ecological footprint and improve the quality of the grapes further.

The quality of champagnes from Bezannes is gaining recognition, and the commune is increasingly seen as a significant player in the Champagne region. The combination of a long tradition of winegrowing, high-quality vines and innovative approaches to production makes Bezannes an exciting place for wine lovers and champagne fans.

Conclusion

Bezannes may be a small commune with modest vineyard holdings, but its importance in the champagne sector should not be underestimated. The Premier Cru classification underlines the high quality of its wine production, and the dedicated growers and champagne houses help Bezannes gain recognition on the international stage. With steady growth and a rising profile in the world of champagne, Bezannes stands for a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation in winemaking.