Prepare to be captivated! In this episode of Wine Talks, host Paul Kalemkiarian takes us on a truly fascinating journey into the heart of Bordeaux’s Graves region with none other than Veronique Sanders, the President and Director of the legendary Château Haut-Bailly. This conversation isn’t just about wine – it’s about legacy, passion, culture, and the magic that makes great bottles unforgettable.
From the very start, you feel the awe and genuine curiosity Paul brings as he explores Veronique’s world. She reveals intimate details about being chosen to pour wine at a presidential dinner at Versailles – yes, President Macron himself chose Haut-Bailly for an event hosting 300 of the world’s top business leaders! Hearing what it means to represent centuries of French terroir on such a global stage is both humbling and inspiring.
What struck us most is just how alive history is at Haut-Bailly. Veronique dives into the estate’s 800-year-old story, from its field blends planted in the 19th century to its unique approach that values humility, tradition, and innovation in equal measure. As she shares, “Humility comes from humus – the earth,” and you can feel how grounded and passionate she is about stewarding the land for generations to come.
But this episode is about more than just tradition. There’s a genuine intrigue in how Veronique and her team balance history with modern demands, managing everything from strict vineyard practices to global distribution in over 80 countries. Paul’s amazement is palpable as he uncovers how innovation is embraced at Haut-Bailly, from robotics in the vineyard to embracing the Japanese kaizen philosophy of continual improvement.
We were fascinated by the discussion on what makes wine unlike any other product – how it brings people together, how each vintage captures the story of its year, and how, above all, passion drives those who dedicate their lives to it. Veronique’s insights about women in wine, her family legacy, and the enduring emotional power of a great bottle left us truly inspired.
This is an episode that wine lovers, history buffs, and anyone curious about what makes a classic estate tick simply can’t miss. Subscribe now and get ready for a conversation filled with insight, warmth, and that unmistakable allure that only the finest wines – and the people behind them – can deliver!
