In the French wine landscape, some winemakers transcend expectations, reinvent their region, and leave their mark. Jérôme Bretaudeau, from Domaine de Bellevue, is one such pioneer. Named Winemaker of the Year 2025 by La Revue du Vin de France (RVF), his journey is a testament to passion, innovation, and excellence.
A Love for Wine Born from Insatiable Curiosity
Born in 1975, Jérôme Bretaudeau developed an early fascination for wine, inspired by influential books on viticulture. After studying viticulture and oenology, he began his career in local vineyards, gaining extensive expertise in cultivation and winemaking techniques.
In 2001, he took over two hectares of family-owned vines in Gétigné, in the heart of the Muscadet region. With a clear vision and strong ambition, he began shaping Domaine de Bellevue. Within a few years, he expanded the estate to sixteen hectares across several communes, diversifying grape varieties and refining his methods.
Innovation and Diversity at the Heart of Domaine de Bellevue
One of Jérôme Bretaudeau’s most striking traits is his innovative spirit. Refusing to limit himself to Muscadet’s iconic Melon de Bourgogne, he planted less common varieties for the region: Chardonnay, Savagnin, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Sauvignon Gris, and Pinot Gris. This diversity allowed him to explore new horizons and create wines with a distinctive personality.
In the cellar, his experimental approach continues. He uses an impressive array of vessels for wine aging: stainless steel tanks, concrete eggs, clay amphorae, and wooden barrels. These choices reflect his constant desire to express the terroir and offer wines that are both modern and respectful of tradition.
A Commitment to Sustainable Excellence
In 2009, Jérôme Bretaudeau began converting his estate to organic farming, reflecting his deep respect for nature. In 2016, he adopted biodynamic practices, earning Biodyvin certification in 2020. This sustainable farming approach aligns with his mission to produce exceptional wines while preserving the environment.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
The Winemaker of the Year 2025 distinction awarded by RVF crowns over two decades of hard work, innovation, and passion. The wines of Domaine de Bellevue are now celebrated for their finesse, originality, and ability to reflect the unique character of the Muscadet terroir.
Beyond accolades, Jérôme Bretaudeau represents a new era for the Muscadet vineyard. He demonstrates that this often-underestimated region can compete with the great names in the wine world in terms of creativity and quality.
A Legacy for the Future
Jérôme Bretaudeau doesn’t just produce wine; he builds a legacy. Through his commitment to excellence, boldness, and respect for terroir, he inspires a new generation of winemakers and elevates the prestige of his region.
Celebrating his journey is also a celebration of the vitality and modernity of French winemaking. Under his guidance, Domaine de Bellevue is not just a reference for Muscadet enthusiasts but a brilliant example of what the wine world can achieve when driven by a passionate and innovative vision.