Gerard Bertrand

Gerard Bertrand is a large man, with large dreams. Starting with investments in biodynamic grape-growing in 2002 at his Cigalus estate, he has expanded those practices to cover more than 800 hectares of vineyards—all either certified biodynamic by Demeter (60% of the total) or in conversion. For Bertrand, this represents not only the way to achieve terroir expression in the resulting wines, but it represents a commitment to the sustainability of the vineyards. Roughly half of Bertrand’s wines are presently produced from organic or biodynamic-grown fruit, with a goal of reaching 80% by 2025. And this is just the start. He believes that the future of viticulture in the entire region is linked to organic farming and actively encourages partner vignerons to make the switch, offering technical advice and funds to offset many of the costs associated with the conversion process. Bertrand’s focus on the land even extends beyond just the vines, as he has created a foundation to preserve and promote biodiversity. A walk through his vineyards includes numerous buffer strips between plots, where native scrub vegetation and insects—especially bees—abound. It’s a holistic approach that recognizes humankind’s responsibility to the planet and future generations.

Gérard Bertrand took over running his family’s estate in Corbières in 1987, following his father’s death. For the next several years, he continued a highly successful Rugby career, while managing the family’s wine business. Since his retirement from rugby in 1994, he’s focused his competitive juices on expanding the business, which now includes more than 800 hectares of vineyards spread among 11 individual estates. All told, Bertrand produces more than two million cases of wine annually, which naturally means that much of it sells through large-volume retailers. But the company’s flagship estates are positioned differently, often selling near the top-end of their respective appellations and routinely garnering great reviews. The variety of sites and microclimates within Languedoc means that Bertrand can offer a range of wines from light, Mediterranean-influenced rosés to high-elevation, limestone-sourced Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and rich, soul-satisfying red wines from Carignan, Grenache, and Syrah. Visitors to southern France can taste all of the wines at Bertrand’s Château de l’Hospitalet, which is also houses a hotel and restaurant. Located in the La Clape appellation, it offers views over the Mediterranean and hosts an annual jazz series.