A new chapter in the history of Château Margaux

After thirty years dedicated to Château Margaux, Philippe Bascaules will retire and step down as Managing Director at the end of 2026. An agricultural engineer, he joined the estate in 1990 as Director of Operations, before returning in 2017 as Managing Director after five years at the helm of a prestigious vineyard in Napa Valley. His experience and intimate knowledge of the estate will however continue to benefit Château Margaux in the years ahead, as he will remain involved as a consultant during key technical periods.

On December 1st 2026, Aurélien Valance, currently Deputy Managing Director, Sales and Operations, will succeed him as Managing Director.

Aurélien Valance first joined Château Margaux in 2001 as an intern and returned to the estate in 2006 as Commercial Director. He was appointed Deputy Managing Director, Sales and Operations in 2016. After twenty years at Château Margaux, he has an intimate knowledge of the estate’s history, wines, teams and markets.

His appointment reflects a spirit of continuity and knowledge transfer, supported by an experienced and committed team.

“Philippe has devoted the greater part of his professional life to Château Margaux, and I would like to express our deepest gratitude to him for his commitment and the high standards with which he has always served the estate. Aurélien has known Château Margaux for twenty years and shares its culture, high standards and values at a profound level. His appointment is a natural continuation of our history.” Alexis Leven-Mentzelopoulos, Co-owner and CEO of Château Margaux

“It is a great honour to take on the role of Managing Director of Château Margaux, an estate I have known for twenty years and to which I feel deeply attached. I approach this responsibility with great humility, but also with the strength of an experienced and committed team. Our responsibility is to preserve what makes it unique, while continuing to prepare for its future with the highest standards of excellence.” Aurélien Valance, Managing Director of Château Margaux