THE BACHELDERS ““ FAMILY ON A MISSION
Followers of local wine will know of Thomas Bachelder as the brilliant winemaker behind Le Clos Jordanne. The Ontario/French project that dared to make world class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir at a volume level not previously achieved here. The winery has since become American owned and Thomas has moved on to consult and to start his own unique virtual/global winery.
Using connections in Niagara, Burgundy and Oregon (where he’d previously made wine), Thomas, and his wife Mary, rent cellar space and are producing Chardonnay and Pinot in all three regions and selling them under the Bachelder name. Modern negociants who are also the winemakers ““ so the name carries more weight than was the case with the old negociants of the world. The first three Bachelder Chardonnays are at Vintages and after tasting them I’d have to say this winery is off to a flying start. Interestingly enough I found the Niagara wine to be the standout for vitality and brightness, (Mr. Excitement). The Oregon is the ripest and richest, (Mr. Seducer), while the Burgundy is pretty, (Mr. Nice).
I cannot wait to taste the Pinots, and all the other creations from this exciting venture. Great to see a Quebecois family playing a big part in the Canadian wine business.
Bravo, and best wishes to Bachelders!
BACHELDER 09 Chardonnay, Niagara~ 271841 $34.95
BACHELDER 09 Chardonnay, Oregon~ 273334 $34.95
BACHELDER 09 Chardonnay, Burgundy~ 272005 $34.95
