Bernard Magrez: his life-story 
“Bernard Magrez’s life-story has been one of passion, constant search for perfection, savoir-faire and outstanding success. It began in Bordeaux, then continued at Grand Cru Classé wine estates and later in other prestigious terroirs in France and around the world.”
1936
At 13 years old, the young Bernard Magrez began a 3-year apprenticeship to become a sawyer. It was at his school that he first met François Pinault.
1961
In this year, he joined the Cordier group, a renowned Bordeaux wine merchant house, where he learned the ropes of the wine trade.
1964
Bernard Magrez set up his first business in this year. He created William Pitters, which in the space of 20 years became a major player in the French spirits market. The brands that he developed were soon leaders in their respective sectors.
1979
Success continued with the launch of Malesan, a Bordeaux wine which became a leading brand in France.
1983
This was the year in which he acquired his first vineyard, the most iconic of the Bernard Magrez company: Château Pape Clément.
2011
The foundation of the Institut Culturel Bernard Magrez. This is a Cultural Institute with a special focus on street art. It links tradition with innovation and offers a unique experience to each and every visitor.
2012
Bernard Magrez now became known as “The man with 40 châteaux”. Currently, the Bernard Magrez company owns 43 vineyards across 9 countries.
2014
In this year, Bernard Magrez created “La Grande Maison”, a 5-star hotel in Bordeaux with 6 luxury bedrooms and a 2-star Michelin restaurant. First run by his friend Joël Robuchon, and today managed by Pierre Gagnaire, the restaurant boasts a wine list containing 259 Bordeaux classified growths, 172 of which are Great Classified Growths.
Today
As passionate as ever, Bernard Magrez continues to demand excellence in everything he undertakes, while never ceasing to innovate.
- 1936
- 1961
- 1964
- 1979
- 1983
- 2011
- 2012
- 2014
- Today
