10 wine makers who have changed the world
The drinks business, very famous English magazine analyzes trends and the wine market; gives a list of the most influential wine makers in the world
Read for you by Donatella Cinelli Colombini
Each of these 10 has, according to the drinks business, changed the character of wine more than any other brand or winery. They are to be recognized as the “wine artists” those who have created the new style of appellations, types and territories.
One regret: no women in this list, and only one Italian. Shame
The starting point is obviously Emile Peynaud, the man who has given e definition the role of a modern wine maker.
- 10th position for Sam Harrop Master of Wine from New Zealand who has changed the
profile of the wines from the Loire Valley. Expert in markets and wine making he is one of the most authoritative voices regarding “authentic or natural” wine, subject to which ha has also dedicated a book.
- Demei Li, Chinese, studied in the University of Bordeaux has worked for Chateau Palmer before guiding the first French-Chinese joint venture.
- Kym Mine Master of Wine based in Australia. Is a flying winemakers who loves a modern style of wine based on elegance, a limited amount of alcohol and usage of barrels.
- In 7th position there is a surprise. It’s the 3 wine makers
from Laithwaites Wine company, who help the producers to create successful wines.
- After one step further upwards, Denis Dubourdieu professor at the University of Bordeaux and a consultant. He dedicates particular attention to conjugating quality and longevity in white wines.
- Alberto Antonini, from Tuscany, works in Chile creating a local identity as opposed to the “frenchifying”. He is consultant for Concha y Toro,, and for the past 7 years is partner to Pedro Parra, the terroir specialist who has revolutionized the concept of soil apt for vineyard.
- The 4th is Stephane Derenoncourt who works all over the world and everywhere has taught to put the vine in prime position of the production of wine so much so that he proposes a vinification of separated allotments.
- Now onto the podium, bronze medal for Hobbs or rather Mr Opus One. His name is in fact
connected to the success of the legendary Mondavi –Rothschild winery. Sworn enemy of sulphur dioxide, he has been one of the creators of the success of the Argentinean Malbec. Now he will move on to India.
- Michel Rolland is the most famous of the list. 150 clients al lover the world. He denies using a recipe but his wines undoubtedly have a strong digital imprint which Robert Parker likes. He is all for the hyper selection of the grapes, even through optical grape selectors, to vinify only the perfectly ripe ones.
- On the podium of the most influential in the world, Jacques e Eric Boissenot, father and son. They never appear but are always behind the scenes for many great wines. Some names,
Lafite Rothschild,
Latour, Margaux, Mouton Rothschild, Léoville Las Cases, Léoville Barton, Ducru Beaucaillou, Grand Puy Lacoste, Branaire Ducru, Rauzan Ségla, Sigalas Rabaud ….











