Château Le Sèpe: When a Social Plan Reveals a Vocation

A former insurance executive, Dominique Guffond left the comforts of his life in Paris to pursue his passion and become a winemaker at Château Le Sèpe in the Bordeaux region, within the Entre-Deux-Mers appellation. He sits down with us to discuss his unconventional journey—one that wasn’t easy, yet remains the stuff of dreams…

Dominique Guffond is fulfilling his dream of becoming a winemaker following a layoff plan

Originally from Normandy, I grew up surrounded by agriculture. While cider production was the main focus there, I was fortunate enough to always be introduced to wine at the dinner table. So I held onto this passion for wine, and that’s how I came to count winemakers among my friends. But it was a social event at my company that finally convinced me to turn my passion into a career. That’s how I went back to school and left life in Paris behind!

News from Château Le Sèpe

We’re in the middle of bottling the 2014 L’Entre-deux-Mers! And we’re about to start bottling the 2012 red. Bottling the reds two years after harvest is a deliberate choice.

Dominique Guffond’s Favorites: Winemaker at Château Le Sèpe

Without a doubt, if I had to embody a wine, it would be a Margaux wine, because I had the opportunity to complete one of my internships at one of these estates. The cellar master taught me everything there is to know about our wonderful profession.

My favorite time of year: the harvest in great vintages! And the 2014 vintage was a very good year for our estate, both in terms of quality and quantity! We are also very confident about the 2015 vintage, which should produce some truly beautiful wines—well-structured and balanced. There is a belief that in Bordeaux, years ending in 5 promise great wines, and it has proven true once again!

Insights from Dominique Guffond, a winemaker in Bordeaux

If I had to describe myself in two words, I would say I am thoughtful and passionate. These two traits allow me to plan ahead in my daily work while pouring all my passion into my wine.

My wife and I were lucky enough to receive an incredibly warm welcome when we arrived at the estate. We were two Parisians who had come to the Gironde to produce Bordeaux wine, and everyone was very supportive and receptive to our project!

One encounter that left a lasting impression on me: without a doubt, my mentor in Margaux, who not only taught me everything I know but also helped me develop my own perspective on wine and its production.

What really gets on my nerves about the wine world: without a doubt, people who drink based on labels. There are so many lesser-known appellations that produce fabulous wines, sometimes far better than some of the big names. Wine is a world of discovery, so it’s a shame to rely on hearsay…

Discover the wines of Château Le Sèpe on Les Grappes