Jean Hugel

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Hugel & Fils in central Riquewihr

Jean "Johnny" Frederic Hugel ( September 28, 1924 - June 9, 2009) was an

Alsatian wine producer, described by wine expert Tom Stevenson as "the single most important person in the development of Alsace wine industry throughout the 20th century."[1]

Biography

Born in the village of Riquewihr, Jean Hugel began studying winemaking after World War II, attending the University of Bordeaux and University of Montpellier from the later of which he earned a Master's degree in Agronomy. In 1948 he returned to the family estate in Alsace, Hugel & Fils, where he shared in management operations with his brothers André and Georges. In 1997, Hugel scaled back on his activities in the day-to-day management of the estate as his nephews took on more prominent role.[1] He died of cancer in 2009.[2]

Influence on Alsatian wine industry

Two Hommage a Jean Hugel wines, a range which was introduced by Hugel & Fils in connection with Jean Hugel's 50th consecutive vintage in the family business.

Jean Hugel was very active in the drafting of the

Sélections de Grains Nobles.[3] When these laws were officially recognized in 1984 they were among the strictest AOC requirements in the French wine industry.[1]

Awards and honors

Over his more than 60 years in the Alsatian wine industry, Jean Hugel won numerous awards and honors. These include:[3]

See also

  • List of wine personalities

References

  1. ^ a b c D. Furer "'Johnny' Hugel dies Archived 2009-06-10 at WebCite" Decanter, June 10th 2009
  2. ^ Eric Asimov "Jean Hugel, Alsace Winemaker, Dies at 84" New York Times, June 11th 2009
  3. ^ a b Hugel & Fils "Jean Hugel Biography" Accessed: June 10th, 2009

External links