Gérard Bertrand, founder and winemaker of his eponymous group, features as one of our top 100 winemakers and winner of the Best Rosé award. He speaks to db about the importance of biodiversity, lessons from his father and the perfect glass at the end of a long day. Before taking over the family business after his father’s death, Gérard Bertrand played rugby union for France and RC Narbonne. One of the most influential producers in Languedoc-Roussillon, he is a major advocate of biodynamics. Bertrand received Master medals for Clos du Temple 2021, Clos du Temple 2022 and Château La Sauvageonne Rosé 2022 at the Global Rosé Masters 2022. Describe your winemaking approach in no more than three words. Nature. Balance. Message. What’s your favourite part of the job? The alchemy of blending, an art to which I love to devote myself. It’s the final winemaker’s touch that composes with the elements. Blending is essential because it structures and shapes the wine. I’ve always been fascinated by this exercise. Which aspect of the job keeps you awake at night? Happily, these days I sleep quite well. Indeed, when I took over the family estate after my father passed away, several challenging years followed during which I slept little, preoccupied with the 1,001 details from vineyard to bottle and the wish to perpetuate my father’s passion and vision with as much precision as possible. But now I am confident and I move forward in serenity with my teams. What’s your go-to
This Article was originally published on The Drink Business - Fine Wine
