Gérard Bertrand: Tales from the Temple
Amid the pyramids at Clos du Temple winery, known for producing one of the world’s most expensive rosés, Margaret Rand interviews Gérard Bertrand, exploring themes of family, rugby, and his relentless pursuit of perfection.
When visiting Bertrand’s winery, one might be struck by the peculiar mix of high culture and thematic presentation, such as the Egyptian-inspired bauxite pyramids surrounding the conical steel vats. While some may view this as a marketing gimmick targeting younger consumers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Bertrand’s commitment to winemaking and history runs deeper.
The winery itself was a significant investment, rumored to be in the realm of €10 million, although Bertrand remains secretive about the exact figure. With ties to the rugby world—where he played at a high level but never professionally—and a background in family winemaking, Bertrand’s story unfolds through a mixture of passion and calculated vision.
Foundations and Inspirations
Gérard Bertrand’s journey in winemaking began under the tutelage of his father, who was a wine broker. After gaining experience working alongside him, Bertrand eventually realized that his future lay in winemaking rather than simply upholding his father’s legacy. A pivotal trip to California, where he met Robert Mondavi, sparked his desire to blend wine with artistry and lifestyle. He soon began to travel and study winemaking globally, notably gaining knowledge from renowned enologists in Argentina, Chile, and France.
While Bertrand built his estate from the ground up, it was not without challenges. He recalls the difficulties faced in the early years, especially as his father acquired their first estate, Domaine de Villemajou, which has since expanded significantly. From the merge of vision, hard work, and a sense of purpose, the family’s once less-regarded wines began to earn respect and recognition.
Vision and Execution
Gérard’s "vision" is a recurring theme in his narrative. Each estate he owns is a testament to strategic planning and ambition, with a current portfolio of 18 estates. He stresses that building sustainable relationships with banks and suppliers was crucial to his success; his ability to create a cooperative paradigm has been key in overcoming significant debt and achieving business sustainability.
His commitment to organic and biodynamic practices, which he adopted in the early 2000s, aligns with a broader movement towards sustainable agriculture in winemaking. Bertrand describes these methods as transformative for both his health and his practices, citing a personal history with health issues that led him down this path.
Success and Future Prospects
Today, Clos du Temple stands at the pinnacle of the rosé market, with prices comparable to iconic red wines. While its high price tag invites scrutiny, Bertrand sees it as a necessary component of positioning Languedoc as a serious player among France’s premier wine regions. He firmly believes in delivering exceptional value, evidenced by the growing U.S. market presence, where his wines have become the number one French brand.
Bertrand’s holistic approach to winemaking extends beyond just the product; it encompasses a deep faith in hard work, positivity, and team-building. These principles shape the culture of his estates, fostering not only a commitment to quality wine production but also a supportive work environment.
In discussing the pressures of running a successful business, he acknowledges that while his drive for perfection might be demanding, it ultimately fuels the creative process and collective journey of those involved. His commitment to crafting exceptional wines combines with a philosophy steeped in personal and communal growth—elements he delves into in his books, Wine, Moon and Stars and Nature at Heart.
In conclusion, Gérard Bertrand’s narrative is more than a business story; it’s a testament to vision, heritage, and the transformative power of wine, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Languedoc region.