Chateau Nairac, Barsac, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France

In 1972 they both embarked on the thrilling adventure of Barsac and Sauternes great wines, choosing Nairac over Rayne Vigneau to settle their family. With Emile Peynaud’s help and advice, they have learned a lot and won awards in Paris, Ghent and elsewhere. Chateau Nairac was back to life. 1987 was a turning point: Nicole Tari-Heeter remained sole owner, managing the estate while waiting for relief. Bernard Ginestet wrote about her: “Nicole likes keeping up and exemplifying the hospitality traditions of the Sauternes Country, made of refined simplicity and close communication. Amongst the Bordeaux wine ladies, she holds a prominent place, combining willpower with civility, refinement with kindness”. As early as the 70’s she had the brilliant idea of asking ten South Western chefs including Michel Guerard 3 stars Michelin, to concoct a series of recipies based on Sauternes and Barsac great wines. Deeply attached to land, its story and some kind of continuity, she instigate the “Vine Garden” restoration for which she won the Vieilles Maisons Française award in 2003.