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News
No.11818 June 21, 2013
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This year marks 30 years since the Suntory Group took over management of Château Lagrange (Bordeaux, France), and on June 20th (local time) for the first time Château Lagrange hosted the Fête de la Fleur (Flower Festival), an event representative of the Bordeaux region. On the day of the event, approximately 1,500 guests arrived, including winemakers and importers from around the world, the French actress, Carole Bouquet, the mayor of Bordeaux, Alain Juppé, and Ichiro Komatsu, the Japanese ambassador to France, as well as many politicians, actors and other ambassadors from various countries. The affair included a cocktail party, banquet, fireworks, and dance party, and at the historic Commanderie du Bontemps (Médoc, Graves and Sauternes Wine Brotherhood) investiture ceremony, persons such as the actress Carole Bouquet were invested as honorary members.
The banquet was an elegant affair in a subdued environment featuring foods, lighting, and flower arrangements that combined the beauty of Japan and France. It maintained respect for the French traditions while incorporating subtle and refined Japanese elements.
At the start of the event, speeches were given by representatives. The mayor of Bordeaux, Alain Juppé stated that, "The Flower Festival is special to Bordeaux. It is a happy and beautiful event, and a time to deepen friendships. This year it is taking place here, at Château Lagrange, and serves as the finishing touch to the Bordeaux Wine FairVinexpo." Emmanuel Cruse, the representative of the sponsor, Commanderie du Bontemps, praised the endeavors made by Château Lagrange, saying, "30 years ago, the Suntory Group boldly gathered its courage and became involved in Château Lagrange?s management, and Château Lagrange in Saint Julien has become a much better place for it."
In addition, the Senior Executive Vice President of Suntory Holdings, Shingo Torii spoke of future ambitions for producing wine at Château Lagrange. "30 years ago, we were pleased to be warmly welcomed by everyone in the wine industry in Bordeaux, including the Commanderie du Bontemps at that time and the neighboring château, Médoc. As a member of this community, we will continue to strive to implement respectable management. In other words, we will work hard to create wines by valuing lasting quality."
