Winemaker

Born and raised in the famous French wine-producing region of the Loire Valley, J.L studied winemaking both at the College de Beaune in Burgundy and at the University of Bordeaux. When he joined Hillebrand Estates Winery in Canada in 1989, he saw it as a unique opportunity for a winemaker – a chance to experiment with grape varieties, winemaking techniques and grape growing practices. In 1998, J.L. was honored with the title of Winemaker of the Year by the Air Ontario Wine Awards. In 2004, he became the head of winemaking and viticulture at the new and innovative LEED certified Stratus Vineyards in Niagara-On-The-Lake. J.L.’s wines at Stratus have set new bars for quality and have impressed critics and consumers alike.