Meet the Leaders Shaping Bordeaux’s Future in Fine Wine

The Bordeaux wine region has long been the pinnacle of fine winemaking, celebrated for its heritage, terroir, and unparalleled craftsmanship. But with the world around it evolving rapidly, Bordeaux faces a critical moment in its history. 

Dutch Wine Apprentice proudly presents “Bordeaux’s Future in Fine Wine,” a special edition series of the acclaimed Grape Masters podcast. This captivating new chapter features some of the most influential voices from Bordeaux’s legendary châteaux, offering an in-depth look at the region’s evolving legacy.

In this series, we’ll introduce the people behind Bordeaux’s finest estates, uncovering their unique journeys, rich winemaking histories, and their pivotal roles in shaping the future of this iconic wine region.

Meet the Guests

“Bordeaux’s Future in Fine Wine” is a series of personal portraits with selected guests that are at the forefront of excellence and innovation. 

We chose these exceptional guests for their unique perspectives and proven expertise in shaping Bordeaux’s legacy. Representing some of the region’s most iconic estates, each guest brings unparalleled knowledge, innovative approaches, and a deep connection to Bordeaux’s traditions. 

Together, they provide a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities facing the region today, making them the perfect voices to explore Bordeaux’s future in the fine wine market.

Mr. Philippe Castéja – Borie-Manoux (Château Batailley, Château Trottevieille)

A prominent figure in Bordeaux’s wine scene, Mr. Philippe Castéja heads Borie-Manoux, one of the region’s last major family-owned wine merchant houses. He is also deeply connected to the vineyards, with his family owning Château Batailley in Pauillac and Château Trottevieille in Saint-Émilion. Philippe’s expertise spans production, distribution, and preservation of Bordeaux’s heritage, cementing him as a key advocate for the region’s future.

Mrs. Mathilde de Caix – Lurton – Famille André Lurton (Châteaux Couhins-Lurton, La Louvière)

Mrs. Mathilde de Caix – Lurton is a leading voice in the next generation of Bordeaux winemakers, proudly continuing the renowned Lurton family legacy, which has shaped Bordeaux for decades. At Châteaux Couhins-Lurton and La Louvière in the heart of Pessac-Léognan, Mathilde champions sustainability and innovation. Beyond Bordeaux, Famille André Lurton, along with Mathilde, operates on a global scale, crafting and selling wines internationally—gaining invaluable experiences and insights along the way. With a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, Mathilde ensures that every bottle reflects the excellence and evolution of her family’s storied heritage.

Mr. Henri Lurton – Château Brane-Cantenac

As the owner and winemaker at Château Brane-Cantenac in Margaux, Mr. Henri Lurton is one of Bordeaux’s most respected figures. His deep understanding of terroir and meticulous approach to viticulture have elevated his wines to global acclaim. Henri’s career has been defined by his commitment to excellence and his innovative yet respectful stewardship of this historic Second Growth estate.

Mrs. Véronique Dausse – Château Phélan Ségur

Mrs. Véronique Dausse is a dynamic force in Bordeaux, serving as the managing director of Château Phélan Ségur in Saint-Estèphe. With a background in international business and an unrelenting passion for winemaking, Véronique has successfully combined her strategic vision with the estate’s long-standing reputation for quality, creating wines that embody the spirit of the Médoc.

Mr. Ronan Laborde & Mrs. Monique Bailly – Château Clinet

Château Clinet, a jewel of Pomerol, is helmed by Mr. Ronan Laborde, a passionate advocate for the region’s boutique wineries. Alongside his wife Mrs. Monique Bailly, the duo ensures that Clinet continues to produce wines of exceptional character and elegance. Their partnership highlights the modern face of Bordeaux: collaborative, innovative, and deeply rooted in its terroir. 

Ronan is also the acting Chairman of one of Union Grands Crus Bordeaux, representing a large part of the producers in Bordeaux on the international stage.

Mr. Guillaume Pouthier – Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion

Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion is one of Bordeaux’s most unique properties, and much of its recent success can be attributed to Mr. Guillaume Pouthier. Guillaume, the estate’s director, has a background in oenology and viticulture. Together with his counterpart Thibaut Richard (in charge of commercial affairs), they have pushed the boundaries of traditional winemaking, creating wines that are as unconventional as they are extraordinary.

Mr. Nicolas Audebert – Château Canon & Château Rauzan-Ségla

A seasoned winemaker with a global pedigree, Mr. Nicolas Audebert has worked in regions as diverse as Argentina and Champagne before taking the reins at Château Canon in Saint-Émilion and Château Rauzan-Ségla in Margaux. Nicolas brings a worldly perspective to Bordeaux, combining technical precision with a creative flair that ensures his wines consistently stand out.

Mr. Jean-Christophe Meyrou – Château Bellefont-Belcier

Mr. Jean-Christophe Meyrou, Director of Château Bellefont-Belcier in Saint-Émilion, is known for his innovative approach to vineyard management and winemaking. His career has spanned various facets of the wine industry, from production to consulting, making him a versatile leader. Under his guidance, Bellefont-Belcier has become a beacon of quality and modernity in the region.

Mrs. Véronique Sanders – van Beek – Château Haut-Bailly

As managing director of Château Haut-Bailly in Pessac-Léognan, Mrs. Véronique Sanders – van Beek is one of Bordeaux’s most celebrated figures. Born into a winemaking family, Véronique has dedicated her career to upholding the estate’s legacy while embracing modern techniques. Her leadership has solidified Haut-Bailly’s position as a producer of some of Bordeaux’s most refined and sought-after wines.

Why This Series Matters

“Bordeaux’s Future in Fine Wine” goes beyond the wine glass, offering an intimate look at the people who bring Bordeaux to life. Each episode will take listeners on a journey through the region’s rich history and into the cutting-edge innovations shaping its future.

Join us as we meet the visionaries who are not only protecting Bordeaux’s legacy but also redefining its path forward. The first episode will premiere early 2025. Stay tuned for updates, and prepare to experience Bordeaux like never before!  

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