What does successful distribution mean for fine wine? And what does it take to be -and remain- successful in fine wine distribution? Are the keys and measure of success different whether you are releasing your wine en primeur, or en livrables (as deliverables), through exclusive importers, or direct to consumers? And what are the main advantages and limitations of each system? 

Listen in as host Pauline Vicard discusses distribution -in conjunction with her deep dive into La Place de Bordeaux- with Mathieu Jullien Marketing and Sales Director at LVMH Vins d’Exception (comprising Yquem, Château Cheval Blanc, Domaine des Lambrays and Colgin Cellars). In this conversation they touch on why LVMH was created and what their objective is. Moreover, Pauline asks about the extra protection, curation and transmission of the wines afforded by the estates within LVMH. Jullien also touches on the global definition for a successful distribution system, and the metrics for a good commercial release, plus how estates are distributed and what can go wrong with a wine during a release. 

Mathieu is certainly an authority on Marketing and distribution, he brings experience from previous roles at Wine Source Group, and Enotria Winecellars Ltd (T/A Enotria). He also holds a 1999 - 2002 Master in Business School from the NEOMA Business School. With a robust skill set that includes Wine Tasting, Sales Management, Marketing Strategy, and more. Tune in to learn more and of course do not forget to head over to the Inside La Place de Bordeaux series, where Pauline initially sought out Mathieu to delve into the fascinating world of La Place de Bordeaux, a wine system shrouded in mystery, even to many people who work in fine wine.

Learn more about LVMH - Vins d’Exception unites the exceptional wine estates owned by the LVMH Group: Clos des Lambrays, Château d’Yquem, Château Cheval Blanc and Colgin Cellars. Vins d’Exception is not a distribution firm - it is a showcase for wines of exceptional character, a tireless champion of these unique estates. Within their organization, winemaking is not subject to commercial constraints; their business is only to promote the reputation of their estates.

In Conversation is a podcast series produced by Areni Global, a think tank dedicated to the future of fine wine. Areni Global helps wineries, distributors and retailers to understand how the world is changing, and how that creates risks to be managed and opportunities to be seized. What risks? What opportunities?

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