My passion for wine grew gradually. My interest started developing from the age of 25 years and has increased over the years.
How did it start ?
The “great adventure” really started with the Galerie du Vin, founded with the help of a friend in 1996, which subsequently became La Galerie des Arts du Vin, and these days acts as a wholesaler and trader. In the meantime, we have opened three shops under the name Le Caveau de Bacchus.
How do you assemble your collection ?
At the Caveau de Bacchus, we specialise in Bordeaux wines, but we offer wines from other regions and countries as well, and are constantly seeking surprising vintages. We also have a great collection of Bordeaux in large-size bottles. I particularly appreciate this type of format because the wine keeps and “develops” better than in standard bottles.
What bottle or case are you proudest of ?
Out of my personal collection, I have a Château d’Yquem 1860, of which I am particularly proud – as this vintage is the year Chopard was founded.
What is your best memory linked to oenology ?
My first visit to the Domaine de la Romanée Conti remains unforgettable. Thanks to human beings who work unceasingly and with great humility, it’s a veritable institution in harmony with nature. I admit that I have a deep respect for this estate and its director and co-owner, Mr Aubert de Villaine.
If you bought a chateau, which one would it be ?
The Château Monestier La Tour, a superb proprety comprising 100 hectares of which 30 are planted as vineyards with the Bergerac, Côtes de Bergerac and Saussignac AOC labels, that our Galerie des Arts du Vin company has just acquired !
How does this passion influence your professional activity ?
Wine, like watchmaking, has always been a passion and must remain one. Even though I can only spend a few moments on it every now and again, my interest in wine brings constant surprises and discoveries. There are also similarities between the two worlds – passion, a constant quest for perfection and excellence, but also patience, because great successes are the fruit of lengthy endeavours.
