Things we wish we’d known before taking over a vineyard: Part 1
People often picture vineyard life as endless sunny days among the vines, glasses of wine in hand, and glamorous soirées under the stars. While there’s truth to that dream, the reality is richer, more complex, and sometimes much less Instagram-worthy.
When we took over Château Canon Chaigneau in Lalande-de-Pomerol, we discovered things that no textbook or wine magazine had quite prepared us for. Here are five lessons we wish we’d known from the start.
1. A global event can change everything
When you imagine running a vineyard, you think about terroir, weather, and winemaking decisions, not a global pandemic, shipping disruptions, or sudden changes in export regulations. Yet these external factors can impact everything: from harvest labour to customer events and even how we deliver wine to our clients across the world.
2. You can run a vineyard… without living there full-time
We live in Singapore for a year, probably another year to come, yet our vines are in Néac, Bordeaux. Thanks to our incredible on-site team, led by Louis (our chef de culture and former owner) Christophe (vineyard and cellar manager), and Yulia, our Executive assistant, everything runs smoothly. With good communication, trust, and regular visits, it’s possible to manage a vineyard from thousands of kilometres away, though it certainly helps to have a few air miles under your belt.
3. A degree is helpful… but real learning happens in the vineyard
Marine’s degree in agricultural engineering provided a strong foundation, but no classroom can prepare you for the unpredictability of vineyard life. Weather patterns, pests, soil behaviour, and the human element all bring challenges that require quick thinking, adaptation, and sometimes a good dose of creativity.
4. You can work as a couple… and stay a couple
Running a business together as partners and parents is no small feat. We’ve learned to divide responsibilities, play to each other’s strengths, and respect boundaries. The key? Knowing when to talk business, and when to switch off and enjoy a quiet dinner without mentioning yields, invoices, or barrel orders. That said… let’s be honest, we’ve had at least 18923 “spirited debates” that could have gone either way. Wine helped.
5. It’s not as glamorous as you think
Yes, there are wine tastings, breathtaking sunsets over the vines, and moments of pure magic. But there are also muddy boots, long hours in the cellar, stacks of administrative paperwork, and the occasional sleepless night worrying about frost, drought, or market shifts. And yet, the satisfaction of sharing a bottle with someone who truly enjoys it makes it all worthwhile.
To be continued…
This is only Part 1 of our journey, and there’s more to share. From the unexpected joys to the lessons we learned the hard way, Part 2 will delve even deeper into what life as vineyard owners is really like.