At Bonaparte in Eke (Belgium), a new wine philosophy is taking shape – one that looks beyond the label to the people who guide the vision behind it. In collaboration with leading Belgian importer VA.S.CO (Valuable Savours Company – part of The Haelterman Group), the restaurant owners developed and refined a concept designed to bring the people and passion behind each wine to the forefront.
The result is the restaurant’s innovative “Leading Ladies” concept, which shines a light on the women steering some of the world’s most compelling wine estates. Rather than organising the list solely by region or varietal, Bonaparte reframes the narrative – placing the spotlight on the individuals who shape the philosophy, direction and identity behind each estate. In doing so, the wine list becomes more than a selection; it becomes a portrait of the leaders whose vision transforms vineyards into icons in the glass.
Among those featured attending the launch on the 14 March 2026 is Silvana Bottega, the creative second-generation owner behind Whalehaven in South Africa. Under her leadership, the boutique cool-climate South African wine producer has become internationally recognised for its meticulous small-batch wines and its
uncompromising focus on Chardonnay from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.
Whalehaven has earned a remarkable series of international accolades for such a niche producer. The 2023 vintage of Whalehaven Sandstone Strata Chardonnay received 95 points & Gold at the International Wine Challenge (IWC), while the Whalehaven Reserve Chardonnay secured the Hemel-en-Aarde Trophy at the IWC in the same year and the highest scoring South African white wine. The estate also achieved a Global Chardonnay Masters title at The Drinks Business, and in January this year Whalehaven reached another milestone when it became the only South African wine included in the Top 100 Wines of the World by Decanter with 97 points.
As a small producer of exclusive wines made in limited quantities, the recognition is particularly meaningful.
“We are a small property making very limited quantities,” says Bottega. “Our focus is simply to make the best wine we possibly can, working intensely on every detail. For a niche producer, receiving this level of global recognition and being included in an exclusive wine list like they have curated at Bonaparte is truly extraordinary.”
The concept behind Bonaparte’s wine list is built on a powerful idea: that wine, as one of the defining pillars of hospitality, is ultimately the expression of vision and leadership.
The restaurant’s name itself reflects this philosophy. Napoleon Bonaparte was not simply a commander but a master strategist who understood that success is built on precision, timing and the ability to see the bigger picture while mastering the smallest details.
In many ways, the world of wine operates on the same principles. Great wines do not happen by chance – they require direction, conviction and the courage to make decisive choices along the way.
By highlighting the individuals behind the wines, this iconic new restaurant Bonaparte celebrates those who quietly steer the course of the industry – the people who 
guide the vision, bring together talent and ultimately shape the experience that arrives at the table.
The restaurant’s innovative “Leading Ladies” concept ensures that women are woven into every detail of the story – from the space itself to the experience in the glass. Interior architect Heidi Wille shaped the restaurant’s refined new look, creating a space that balances elegance with warmth, while Annelies Vermeire brought the atmosphere to life through floral artistry and decorative touches that add texture, character and soul. In the dining room, restaurant manager Catherine Vaernewijck leads the guest experience, ensuring that Bonaparte’s renewed vision is delivered with grace, professionalism and genuine hospitality. The concept continues on the wine list, where alongside Whalehaven, Marta Vidal of MVSA and other wines marked by a strong female signature are featured. The story is crowned with the presence of Vitalie Taittinger, whose leadership of Champagne Taittinger reflects the same elegance, heritage and female leadership that defines Bonaparte’s new chapter.
Restaurant guests quickly recognise that the strength of what happens behind the scenes is nowhere more evident than in the vision of Timothy Chalmet and Pieter Claessens, the owners of Bonaparte Brasserie & Restaurant. Known for their meticulous attention to detail across their expanding restaurant group – which already includes the brasseries Basile in Merelbeke and Leon in Gentbrugge – they have built their reputation not only on striking interiors that capture the eye, but on a philosophy that elevates every element of the experience. From cocktail design and carefully curated wine lists to the presentation of bread boards and dessert trays, and dishes plated as visual works of art, every detail is considered as part of a cohesive and memorable dining experience.
Brasserie Bonaparte
Steenweg 231
9810 Eke, Belgium