Portraits of winemakers

CHAMPAGNE RÉMI ADAM, ESTELLE HECHT: ‘WOMEN HAVE MODERNISED CHAMPAGNE’.

Estelle Hecht: A Trailblazer in the World of Champagne

A Passion for Wine from the Start

"I've been in the vineyards since I could walk." At 25, Estelle has always been certain of her professional calling. However, this didn’t prevent her from navigating the streets of Paris for her business studies. "My parents always encouraged me to explore what’s happening elsewhere," the winemaker shares.

Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry

In 2014, Estelle joined her parents to learn the trade. At that time, she was 22. Entering a predominantly male industry presented a challenge for the young woman. "At first, I struggled to make my voice heard. I eventually realized that you need to be firm from the beginning, which is a rule that applies to both men and women in the workplace. You also need to find ways to cope with a very physical job that often requires the strength of a man!" Estelle reflects. Despite the challenges, she has successfully carved out her place in this male-dominated world.

Champagne Rémi Adam: A Focus on Blanc de Blancs

Located in Berru on the Montagne de Reims, the Champagne Rémi Adam estate covers 90 hectares and predominantly produces blanc de blancs champagnes. This type of champagne is often attributed "feminine" qualities due to its elegant structure and fine aromas. However, the estate’s range is far from uniform. "We try to show that there isn't just one way to vinify blanc de blancs champagnes," Estelle highlights.

Since joining the estate, Estelle has been behind two cuvées: "Belle Boisée" 2007 and "L’Affût," both aged in oak barrels. This winemaking technique is dear to Estelle, who hopes to expand its use within the estate.

Estelle Hecht: A Committed Winemaker

In three years, Estelle has made significant strides. She is now a member of the women’s group at the Syndicat Général des Vignerons de la Champagne, where she actively works to challenge traditional norms and modernize the image of Champagne both in France and internationally.

"There are a significant number of women my age who have entered the vineyards around the same time as I did. Their open-mindedness has brought a fresh perspective to Champagne wines. Seeing this change made me eager to contribute actively to this evolution."

When not at the syndicate or in the vineyards, Estelle works on Champagne B.Liv, a modern and feminist champagne brand she founded in 2014 with entrepreneur Armonie Bellepeau-Crochet, whom she met during her business studies in Paris.

A Concept That Resonates, Even with Men

"Our project is somewhat more challenging to present to the male winemakers in my region compared to women, which is logical since they are not the target audience. However, explaining the concept well can sometimes change their minds. Of course, there are always skeptics, but overall, the feedback has been positive."

Future Plans and Ambitions

Estelle has many projects on the horizon. At Champagne Rémi Adam, she envisions setting up a micro-winery: "I would like to see my barrels every morning when I arrive at work." She also aims to promote champagnes from smaller producers with Champagne B.Liv, which she feels are often overshadowed by larger Champagne brands, despite their role in enhancing the region’s prestige internationally. "I am very sensitive to this cause because the diversity of Champagne wines is what strengthens the region," Estelle asserts.

She also plans to develop initiatives within the syndicate to highlight Champagne’s women who break traditional molds to revitalize cuvées and revolutionize commercial methods. "Through these actions, I want people to understand that women are now contributing to writing the history of Champagne and its wines…"