After twenty-five years in the White House press corps, Blair Pethel visited Burgundy and, as so many do, fell in love with the region. Very few, though, are prepared to give up a career in political journalism, move to France, and start a winery; Blair did just that. After graduating from the viticulture & oenology program at Lycée Viticole de Beaune, he settled on the border of Beaune and Savigny-lès-Beaune, and founded Domaine Dublère.
For the next fifteen years he followed his dream and made wine from his own vineyards as well as purchased grapes. His philosophy has always been to focus his attention in the vineyard; great wine can only come from superb grapes, after all. He followed this philosophy in his négociant wines as well, only signing contracts with farmers who let him manage the vineyards himself.
In 2019, after sixteen years as a winemaker, he sold his holdings to his long-time neighbour, Domaine des Terres de Velle, who he felt followed the same principles in vineyard management and winemaking.
It was always a pleasure to visit Blair in his cellars. He was ever the courteous Southern gentleman, down to the accent, and was a vital and inquisitive winemaker, always seeking to improve his methods. His wines were fresh, vibrant and well-priced.
