Martine Saunier (1934–2025): A generous French wine ambassador
Martine Saunier, a trailblazing wine importer, passed away in February 2025 after a brief battle with cancer. She is remembered for introducing American wine enthusiasts to some of the finest French wineries, including Château Rayas and renowned producers like Henri Jayer and Lalou Bize-Leroy. Her contributions to the wine industry, along with her independent spirit and mentorship to many, have left a significant void in the community.
Saunier was born in Paris during 1934, in a family deeply affected by the aftermath of World War I. Her early life was marked by a move to the rural areas of Collonges, where she developed a love for the land and viticulture. During her childhood, she gained firsthand experience of vintage life—an experience that left a lasting impression on her. This backdrop of hardship and beauty formed the foundation for her later career in wine.
At 18, after studying at a business school and briefly working in London and the airline industry, Saunier moved to California in 1964. However, her passion for wine remained strong throughout her various jobs. It blossomed during a pivotal visit to Napa Valley in 1967, where she learned from winemaker André Tchelistcheff that true Pinot Noir could be found in Burgundy, sparking her decision to import French wines.
The official inception of her import business began in May 1969, with Saunier making a purchasing trip across France. Driving a Volkswagen Bug and accompanied by her mother, she sought out small, artisanal producers. Notable finds included a remarkable 1959 wine from Vouvray’s Léonard Douzilly, from whom she ordered 300 bottles on her first meeting. This initial trip also led her to Château Rayas, where her direct approach secured another substantial order—a milestone that affirmed her capabilities as an importer.
Over time, Saunier cultivated relationships within the wine community, working closely with the Reynaud family from Château Rayas across generations and expanding her portfolio to include other celebrated producers. While she imported wines from various French regions, her legacy remains tied to Burgundy. She was pivotal in introducing Henri Jayer’s wines to the U.S., impacting the market significantly.
By nurturing her connections with iconic figures like Jayer and Bize-Leroy, Saunier shaped the American perception of French wine. Her dedication to authenticity, prioritizing small and characterful producers, established a new standard in the industry.
In 2012, after starting a new chapter in her career with her involvement in the documentary A Year in Burgundy, Saunier sold her business to Gregory Castells. Even after stepping back, her influence persists through the wines she advocated and the numerous wine enthusiasts she educated. Saunier’s life and contributions will be forever honored in the world of fine wine.