From individual expertise to collective intelligence, the profession of wine consultant has evolved to address the technical, climatic, and societal challenges of today’s vineyards.
An evolving profession
Long seen as a solitary figure, the wine consultant’s role has been deeply transformed. Climatic, technical, economic, and social challenges now call for a more collaborative and diversified approach.
From individual expertise to collective intelligence
Where once Bordeaux consultants mainly disseminated knowledge from universities or leading châteaux, today experience flows in many directions. Practices from southern countries facing climatic extremes inspire solutions for Bordeaux vineyards, while our own work across Old World terroirs enriches the advice we bring to local winegrowers.
Faced with a growing range of issues — from environment and climate to evolving practices — the profession can no longer be defined by a single speciality. True effectiveness lies in the complementarity of viticulture, oenology, and environmental expertise, which makes teamwork indispensable.
New benchmarks, new expectations
The Parker era has given way to greater diversity and the celebration of individuality. Listening to winegrowers and highlighting the unique identity of each terroir are now central.
At the same time, the traditional first/second wine hierarchy has shifted towards broader, horizontal ranges that reflect the full spectrum of an estate and appeal to varied audiences.
And the role of the AOP has changed: no longer seen as an unquestionable reference point, it is increasingly set aside by producers seeking creative freedom.
Science and tradition: a complementary approach
Today, consulting draws on the best of both worlds: intuitive insight and scientific rigour. Our work on stems is one example. What began as a tasting intuition has been supported by research, enabling us to rationalise their use and turn it into a practical tool for winegrowers.
The consultant as the winegrower’s voice
The consultant’s role is no longer to speak for themselves but to stand behind the winegrower — amplifying their voice, elevating their story, and helping their wines shine.
The evolution of the profession mirrors a broader shift — from solitary expertise to collective intelligence. At Derenoncourt Vignerons Consultants, this shift underpins the way we organise our work, conduct research, and design events. Our goal remains constant: to help winegrowers bring out the authenticity of their wines and find their place in a fast-changing market.