1920 – 2020 : Centennial anniversary of the Cuvelier Family

News | 18 November 2020

Centennial anniversary of the Cuvelier Family at the helm of Chateau Léoville Poyferré

The former private Parisian mansion of Christian Dior, 6 Mandel, was an exceptional setting for this special occasion. Sara Lecompte Cuvelier and Didier Cuvelier hosted members of the French media and wine trade on Thursday March 12, 2020 to celebrate the centennial of the Family’s ownership of Château Léoville Poyferré.

Lunch was masterfully orchestrated by the young and talented chef Edouard Chouteau of La Laiterie restaurant in Lambersart near Lille, home town of the Cuvelier family.

On this occasion, magnums of stellar vintages graced the table, echoing the duck Wellington served with Léoville Poyferré sauce, as well as other delicacies. The wines were chosen from the last four decades and highlighted the change in directorship from Didier to his cousin Sara. Over the years, Didier contributed to the development of the property’s international reputation. Sara’s ambition is to continue improving quality, with special attention given to an environmental approach.

In the afternoon, sommeliers from Michelin-starred restaurants and Parisian palaces came to meet with Sara and Didier. They were able to taste the same vintages and exchange ideas while admiring the magnificent view of the Trocadéro from the terrace.

This gathering was our last wine tasting before lockdown in France and will always be remembered, as will the wonderful vintages tasted that day.

As part of this centennial celebration, other events are expected to take place in London, New York and Hong Kong.

 

List of vintages tasted for this event: 2012-2010-2009-2005-1996-1990-1989-1982

The 2019 en primeurs vintage was also tasted.