Boviere

The Bovière family has been making champagne in Verzenay for three generations. The village lies in the heart of the Montagne de Reims, just 10 km from Reims and 25 km from Épernay. The house of Denis Bovière works as a récoltant-manipulant: it farms its own vines and sells its champagnes directly from the estate. The Rue du Corbet is given as the address of the winery, and visitors will find the house at 4, rue Berloz.

Three generations in Verzenay

The introductory text, which speaks of two generations, is out of date. In 1957, after several years in viticulture, Jean Bovière decided to make his own champagne. He passed his knowledge on to Denis Bovière, who handed it on to Florian Bovière, who has been working in the business for some years now. By the house's own account, production stands at 15,000 to 20,000 bottles a year.

Vines, cellar and cuvées

The vineyard covers about 4.8 hectares, planted 80% to Pinot Noir and 20% to Chardonnay. The vines are 35 years old on average, and the oldest was planted in 1938. Verzenay is classified 100% grand cru. The soil is made up of chalk, clay and limestone, and according to the grower it shapes the aromas and style. Fermentation takes place in enamelled tanks and stainless steel. The wines age in the cellar, which Jean Bovière dug himself. In 2024 the estate was certified with the Haute Valeur Environnementale label.

The range runs from Tradition and Prestige through Demi-Sec, Extra-Brut, Rosé, Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs to the 2016 Millésime, the Cuvée Mémory and a Ratafia. The Mémory is the house speciality:

• It comes from a solera begun in 2015, a continuously topped-up reserve.
• It ages for 6 months in oak barrels and at least 36 months on the lees.
• It is made of 30% Pinot Noir and 70% Chardonnay, with a dosage of 4 g/l (Extra Brut).
• The cuvée is limited and numbered, and booking ahead is recommended.

Visiting and tasting

Christelle Bovière welcomes guests and presents her champagnes. If you are visiting the region, you need to book 24 hours in advance. The estate is closed on Sundays. Telephone: +33 3 26 49 43 40, email: info@champagne-boviere.com.