M Chapoutier The Legacy of a Dynasty

Ashika Mathews traces the story of M Chapoutier, a dynamic wine dynasty that has stood the test of time

- Ashika Mathews

The legacy of a dynasty can be a heavy burden to carry forward as progressive generations break with tradition, often with no alternative plan, divide holdings or leave the industry altogether. Families, where each successive heir has not only sustained but enhanced the family legacy, are rare and have much to be admired for.

One such dynasty was founded in 1808 as ‘Calvet et Compagnie’, which really came into its own in 1897 when Marius Chapoutier joined the company, then owned by Rodolphe Delehine, and it became known as Delepine et Chapoutier, exporting Rhône valley wines to Holland, Switzerland and Germany. With the passing away of Delepine in 1922, and then of Marius in 1937, the next Chapoutier, Marc took over the business and in 1955 renamed it, giving it the name it still bears today: M Chapoutier. Each successive generation expanded on the company’s holdings and portfolios, introducing a company ethos that is still adhered to.

Michel, the current custodian of the Chapoutier legacy, joined the company in 1989 and took over in 1990. While widening the company’s reach to countries as far apart as Australia and Portugal, he has elevated it into one of the world’s most admired French wine brands.