Pictures: SW Team, Various open sources (all the credits are given below)
Text by: Gleb King
While Bordeaux En Primeurs week is approaching, we remember the important persons of this iconic wine region. It was really hard to mention all of the Bordeaux VIPs, so we made this short list which shall be continued in the next part of this article.
Michel Rolland
Photo: rollandcollection.com/michel-rolland/
A globally renowned oenologist and wine consultant, known for his "Rollandization" approach that enhances the richness and fruitiness of wines. His influence extends to many top Bordeaux estates and has helped them achieve international acclaim. Michel Rolland is a controversial yet undeniably influential figure in global winemaking, including Bordeaux. His style, characterized by the enhancement of fruit flavors and integration of oak, has been both praised for its approachability and critiqued for standardizing wine profiles. Rolland's methodology often involves controlling fermentation processes, micro-oxygenation, and blending techniques that balance wines and enhance their appeal on the international market. His work has helped several estates achieve higher ratings and market presence.
Hubert de Boüard de Laforest
Photo: angelus.com/en/photo-gallery.html
Co-owner of Château Angélus, de Boüard has played a pivotal role in raising the estate's profile. His innovative techniques and commitment to precision in both vineyard and winemaking have contributed to Angélus's reputation as a top Bordeaux wine. Hubert de Boüard played a significant role in elevating Château Angélus to Premier Grand Cru Classé "A" status. He is known for implementing cutting-edge vineyard and winery technologies and advocating for biodynamic practices.
Jean-Claude Berrouet
Photo: youtube.com/Bourrassé
Former technical director of Château Pétrus, he is celebrated for his traditional winemaking philosophy, which emphasizes terroir and subtlety. His influence is profound in Bordeaux, particularly in shaping the Merlot blends of Pomerol. Jean-Claude Berrouet's influence extends through his tenure at Château Pétrus and his ongoing consultancy work. His philosophy champions the traditional aspects of Bordeaux winemaking, particularly the expression of terroir and the subtlety of wines. He emphasizes the importance of balanced wines that reflect their origin, often advocating for minimal intervention in the cellar to allow the natural characteristics of the vineyards to shine. Berrouet has been a mentor to many in the industry, advocating for a respect for tradition paired with mindful innovation.
Bernard Magrez
Photo: bernard-magrez.com
A dynamic entrepreneur who owns multiple Bordeaux estates, including Château Pape Clément. Magrez's emphasis on modernization and marketing has helped bring a new level of attention to his wines and the region as a whole. Known as a visionary entrepreneur, Bernard Magrez controls an extensive portfolio of wineries, including the prestigious Château Pape Clément. His approach combines traditional Bordeaux expertise with aggressive marketing and modernization strategies. Magrez emphasizes luxury and excellence, often investing in advanced technologies in vineyard management and winemaking to boost the quality and profile of his wines. His efforts extend the appeal of Bordeaux wines globally, reaching new markets and consumer bases.
Stéphane Derenoncourt
Photo: domaine-terres-blanches.com
Known for his consulting work and emphasis on organic and biodynamic practices. Derenoncourt advocates for the expression of terroir and the use of gentle winemaking techniques, influencing many Bordeaux estates. He uses his experience from Bordeaux and across the world to inform practices that express the terroir, focusing on low yields, natural fermentations, and minimal use of chemicals. Derenoncourt's influence encourages a more sustainable and ethical approach to winemaking, aligning with growing consumer demand for authenticity and sustainability in wine production.
Pierre Lurton
Photo: youtube.com/VinsdeSaintEmilion
His leadership has been critical in maintaining the excellence and enhancing the recognition of Château Cheval Blanc and Château d'Yquem on the global stage. As managing director of both châteaux, Lurton is responsible for some of the world’s most celebrated wines. His work has been marked by a dedication to maintaining the historical prestige and quality of these estates while implementing modern developments in vineyard practices and winemaking technology. Lurton’s approach balances tradition with innovation, ensuring wines that honor their legacy while appealing to contemporary tastes.
Corinne Mentzelopoulos
Photo: youtube.com/NormanFosterFdn
Owner and managing director of Château Margaux, she has been instrumental in maintaining its legacy and promoting innovation and sustainability. She is a key figure in the estate's continued success. At the helm of Château Margaux since the early 1980s, Corinne Mentzelopoulos has been key in the estate’s renaissance. Her focus on quality, investment in research and development, and passion for sustainable practices has solidified Margaux's status as a leader among Bordeaux wines. She champions both preservation and innovation, seen in the chateau's efforts in biodiversity and adaptation to climate change, ensuring its continued relevance and excellence in the wine world.
Alan Sichel
Photo: bordeaux.com
Alan Sichel is a prominent figure in the Bordeaux wine industry, known for his role as a winemaker and as the president of the Bordeaux and Bordeaux Supérieur AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée). He is associated with the Sichel family, which has a long history in wine trading and production in Bordeaux. Alan Sichel has been involved in various aspects of the Bordeaux wine business, including wine production, marketing, and promotion. He is also known for his advocacy for sustainability and innovation within the wine sector.
