Viva Lewes Issue #114 March 2016
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my space<br />
Photos by Alex Leith<br />
I originally trained as a biochemist, which<br />
comes in very handy for all the testing, but it was<br />
a love of wine which drove me into viticulture.<br />
I may have a lot of hi-tech machinery here in<br />
my studio, but the most sophisticated tool at my<br />
disposal is my palate.<br />
It’s in the blood. I grew up in the Champagne<br />
region of France, and my father worked in the<br />
trade. After getting a Masters in Oenology I<br />
trained at companies such as Moët & Chandon,<br />
before spending ten years in California. I’m a<br />
member of the French Guild of Champagne<br />
Makers, and I can tell you that if maybe my<br />
compatriots were a little cynical of the English<br />
sparkling wine trade a few years ago, they certainly<br />
aren’t any more!<br />
As told to Alex Leith<br />
Rathfinny Estate, Alfriston, 01323 871 031<br />
rathfinnyestate.com<br />
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