He’s called “The Flying Winemaker” and his international influence in the world of wine is unparalleled. Bordeaux-based Oenologist Michel Rolland consults for more than 100 estates in 14 countries. Another 400 estates utilize the services of his laboratories located in France and Mendoza for analysis and advice. And at an age when many contemplate slowing down to stop and smell the roses, Michel is still living a life in the air and on the ground tending the vines, blending with finesse and turning out world-class wines. He turns 70 on December 24 this year and celebrates his 45th harvest in Bordeaux.
Michel Rolland (Photo: Clos de los Siete)
Michel was raised on his family estate, Château Le Bon-Pasteur, in Pomerol. With wife, Dany, he oversees several of his own properties in Bordeaux and collaborations such as Clos de los Siete in Argentina. His global footprint has made its mark with the hundreds of wineries that seek out his expertise that has made him an international star in the world of wine. To name just a few of the numerous estates that he’s worked with: Chile (Casa Lapostelle), Spain (Rolland Galarreta), Italy (Tenuta dell’Ornellaia,Tolaini, Campo de Sasso), California (Araujo, Harlin, Staglin, Screaming Eagle and Jericho Canyon) and France (Château Figeac, Château Bonnet, Château La Louvière, Pape Clément, Phélan-Ségur and dozens more.)
In this September 13 episode of The Connected Table LIVE! Michel takes a break from harvest to share his thoughts on climate change, terroir, why Argentina tugs his heartstrings and why he has not intention of slowing down. Wine, after all, is more than his profession. It is his passion!
Listen here!