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, 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 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, 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. 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,” said 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,” said Bertrand Lhôpital, former cellar master and head of grape spply 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,” said Ludovic du Plessis, president of Maison Telmont.
