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Gilles Nicault left the University of Avignon with a four year degree in
Viticulture and Enology. He honed his craft in the fabled hillside vineyards
and wineries of Cote Du Rhone, Provence and Champagne. Then, already a vintner
of rising fame, Gilles traveled to America. He wanted to see for himself if
reports of outstanding noble grapes from the eastern slopes of Washington were
indeed true.
His tour took him to the Staton Hills Winery of Yakima Valley in 1994 (now part
of Diageo), to Woodward Canyon in 1996, and included an occasion at the Hogue
Winery. He soon became part of the prestigious community of Washington
enologists and winemakers.
Gilles discovered that he and Rick Small, owner of Woodward Canyon, share the
same philosophy and passion in producing great world class wines, and in 1999
he was given the title of Winemaker of Enology and Production of Woodward.
But it was in the vineyards of southern France where Gilles developed his deep
convictions regarding the science of grape growing, and the profound role it
plays in winemaking.
“Wines are made in the vineyard and only an excellent relationship between
grower and winemaker allows the crafting of outstanding wines that reflect
their terroir,” he explains to all who ask.
Gilles has a passion for knowledge, and has shaped his career path to achieve
maximum growth through exposure to new ideas. "Rick (Small) brought so much
originality and creativity to wine making - and he was so open and generous
with his knowledge – I will always pay homage to him. His willingness to
support my decision to join Long Shadows is evident of the generous and
gracious style of this man. "
It was only natural that Gilles would want to join Allen Shoup’s
state-of-the-art Long Shadows team. It is here where he will complete his
search for the secrets of the world's most exceptional wines as he works
alongside some of the world’s greatest winemakers. His exposure to their
craftmanship with specific grape varieties and classic wine styles allows him
to perfect his own signature work with the Chester-Kidder winery.
Gilles is married to Winemaker Marie-Eve Gilla of Forgeron Cellars. a highly
accredited winemaker in her own right.
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