Maverick winemakers in Bordeaux

WINE estates in Bordeaux have always been anchored by tradition, almost to the point of elitism. But things have changed of late, which have been viewed by experts as either welcome open-mindedness or bowing to commercialism.

But one change has been largely positive — a growing diversity in Bordeaux, which has seen new players entering the domain. One notable development has been the unlikely presence of New World winemaker Penfolds, which partnered Dourthe, an established Bordeaux name, for the recent grand launch of Penfolds II. And then there are independent vignerons like Loic Pasquet, the owner of Liber Pater, who believes in rolling out “the real and old taste” of Bordeaux wines and giving customers a taste of the past. 

Together, they bring new ways of thinking and inventive winemaking that complement the region’s vinous offerings, and could play a role in its future direction.