Alsace winemaker Etienne Hugel dies

Etienne Hugel, one of Alsace’s most charismatic wine figures, has died suddenly at the age of 57.

Etienne Hugel

Famille Hugel announced at the weekend that Etienne had died on Saturday 9 April. The cause of his death was not given.

Commercial director at his family winery, he and his brothers Jean-Philippe and Marc steered (as it was then) Hugel & Fils for more than 20 years.

Born in Riquewihr in 1958, he joined the family company in 1982.

He quickly became head of sales and marketing and then commercial director when he and his brothers took over from their father and uncles.

As head of commerce and marketing, Etienne travelled constantly and was the most recognisable face of the company; much liked and respected by the trade from the US to Asia.

It is no doubt thanks to him that Hugel wines can now be found in over 100 markets worldwide, and he was as much an ambassador for Alsace as he was for his family’s wines. One of his great causes was championing the pairing of Alsatian wines with Asian cuisine.

With a zany and witty sense of humour (he once told the drinks business his greatest fear was that he might one day run out of Champagne), he was energetic, passionate, talkative and tireless in his advocacy of the wines and region he loved.

His father, André, said in a statement: “A visionary and a hard worker, my son Etienne travelled the world relentlessly, showing unparalleled people skills and infectious enthusiasm.

“Throughout his life he was able to communicate his passion, his professionalism and his personal values to all those with whom he worked.”

He is survived by his wife and two children.