Alexis Leven-Mentzelopoulos

The new CEO of family-run Médoc first growth Château Margaux interrupted his busy schedule to reflect on his path to the top job, and his plans for the estate's future direction

- GEORGIE HINDLE

At just 30 years of age, Alexis LevenMentzelopoulos stepped into a role that most could only dream of: CEO of a Bordeaux first growth estate - the family-owned, centuries-old Château Margaux no less. It would be easy to assume that he was guaranteed this role, groomed to take over and freely 'given the keys', as it were, by his mother Corinne Mentzelopoulos (pictured p39), who was at the helm of the property for 43 years before retiring in 2023. But that's not how the story goes, and he exhibits no sense of ego or flippancy when it comes to his task.

'Château Margaux has been part of my life since I can remember, Alexis says when we catch up with him, a year on from his promotion. 'But I wasn't forced into continuing the family business - if anything it was the opposite.'

Growing up, Alexis' time was divided between Paris and Margaux, accompanying his mother to international wine events from a young age. These early experiences would become foundational, nurturing his connection to both the estate and the people who love to drink its wines. 'I was just eight years old, attending masterclasses and dinners with my mother, even travelling to China, New York and Korea,' he recalls. 'At that age, you don't understand what a first growth is, but you see how people react to Château Margaux - you feel the excitement.'