Maison Telmont announces the nomination of Brice Bezin as Cellar Master and Head of Grape Supply. He succeeds to Bertrand Lhôpital, to whom he had previously been deputy. This appointment reflects a commitment to continuity, the transmission of rigorous know-how, loyalty to a unique winemaking style, and long-term dedication to environmental commitments. Bertrand Lhôpital remains a shareholder of the Maison.
Although originally from Champagne, Brice Bezin began his career in 2015 in California’s prestigious Napa Valley, after obtaining his National Diploma in Oenology. There, he discovered the inner workings of winemaking and witnessed, in this Mediterranean and dry climate, the first effects of climate change. He observed with interest the pioneering responses of winegrowers: organic farming, responsible water management, and sustainable viticulture. After a stint in Canada, where he discovered the specificities of ice wines, he returned to the Napa Valley to further deepen his expertise before ultimately settling back in France, first in the Minervois, then from 2018 in Champagne, working successively as Oenologist and then Cellar Master.
In 2024, attracted by both the oenological qualities of Maison Telmont wines and its commitment to preserving the terroir, he joined Telmont as Deputy Cellar Master. Working alongside Bertrand Lhôpital, a defender of organic farming in Champagne, he learned the secrets of precision oenology practiced at the Maison, as well as a winemaking philosophy that is open-minded, bold, and limitless in its exploration of blends.
Today, the new Cellar Master has fully embraced the identity of Telmont wines: a balanced, structured, subtle, and elegant style. Driven by the same boldness as his predecessor, Brice Bezin intends to craft “his” wines in line with the traditions that have built the Maison’s reputation. He is particularly committed to further revealing the benefits of organic viticulture – free from herbicides, synthetic pesticides, synthetic fungicides, or synthetic fertilizers – both in terms of a direct connection to the terroir and in oenological qualities: radiance, vitality, and a luminous character. Brice Bezin defines himself as a meticulous and determined oenologist. He embodies a new generation of winemakers – deeply rooted in tradition, yet determined to advance more sustainable and eco-conscious practices.
“Becoming Cellar Master of Maison Telmont is a tremendous honor. With both enthusiasm and humility, I take up the mantle from Bertrand Lhôpital. I will be dedicated to perpetuating the Maison’s unique style while continuing its environmental commitments.” – Brice Bezin, Cellar Master and Head of Grape Supply of Maison Telmont
“I had the pleasure of mentoring Brice since 2024 to prepare for this transition. His precision, sensitivity, and respect for Telmont wines are the promise of a bright future for the Maison. I wish him the greatest success in his new role!” – Bertrand Lhôpital, former Cellar Master and Head of Grape Supply of Maison Telmont
“Brice’s appointment represents change in continuity. His expertise, passion for wines, and awareness of ecological issues fit perfectly with our vision: that of a pioneering Champagne house, dedicated to quality and sustainability, from vine to glass.”– Ludovic du Plessis, President of Maison TelmontAbout Maison Telmont
Champagne Telmont was founded in 1912 in Damery, France, near Épernay, in the wake of the Champagne riots, by Henri Lhôpital. For over a century, the House has been a pioneer in the Champagne industry. Equally committed to innovation and the preservation of Champagne's traditions of excellence, Telmont is now at the forefront of a new revolution in our relationship with our planet. It implements a unique vision: to produce exceptional Champagne without any compromise on sustainability. This vision, materialized since 2021 with the project "In the Name of Mother Nature", includes converting 100% of the estate’s and partner winegrowers' vineyards to organic and regenerative agriculture (today, 70% of all vines are already certified organic), preserving biodiversity, and drastically reducing carbon emissions to achieve Net Zero by 2050.
Past initiatives already implemented* include the elimination of gift boxes and unnecessary packaging, the co-development with our historic glassmaking partner of the world’s lightest Champagne bottle(800g), the discontinuation of transparent glass (including 0% of recycled glass) and bespoke bottles(900g +), the use of transition glass produced between two hues, the complete stop of air freight, and the use of renewable energy.
Standing with Telmont are investors who share the same environmental vision and convictions, including Rémy Cointreau, majority shareholder of Telmont, which fully endorses the House’s commitment to sustainability and innovation; Leonardo DiCaprio, investor and committed environmentalist; and Ludovic du Plessis, President of Maison Telmont.
The wines of the House are distinguished by an airy and structured style, balancing tension and freshness, with subtle, balanced acidity that ensures an impressive long finish. Each has a unique presence marked by a paradox: structured body and remarkable lightness.
In 2024, Maison Telmont unveiled its manifesto-cuvée, “Réserve de la Terre”, crafted from 100% organic grapes, without herbicides, synthetic pesticides, synthetic fungicides, synthetic fertilizers. Radiant, luminous, and full of life, this cuvée represents the future of Maison Telmont.
*Our detailed commitments In the Name of Mother Nature are available here, and actions undertaken to reduce CO2 emissions in Our Guide to Sustainability in Champagne.
Contact
Isabelle Kroun, Communications Manager
Charles Dubief, Social networks
Instagram: @champagnetelmont
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LinkedIn: Champagne Telmont
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EXCESSIVE ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION IS DANGEROUS FOR YOUR HEALTH. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.
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